We have recently launched a temperature checking device that is so simple to use and has proved to be so accurate that it has been approved for use in Flight dishwashers frequently used by airlines and hospitals.
The Thermal Disinfection Indicator, or TDI for short, uses melt point technology to provide a permanent record that the chosen operating temperature has been correctly reached. Catering dishwashers frequently operate at 60 to 66 deg C, but many applications now stipulate 71 deg C, at which point items passing through the wash cycle are considered to be thermally disinfected.
The challenge here was to ensure that TDI could withstand the rigours of a full wash and disinfection cycle with its heat and aggressive cleaning chemicals whilst still being easy to use in the field. A testing programme was carried out for over a year with leading industrial dishwasher maker, Hobart, which finally produced the winning formula. The finished product is about half the size of a first class stamp and like its postal counterpart can simply be peeled off a backing paper and pressed onto the surface of a metal substrate that passes through the dishwasher.
The secret to TDI's success is the special adhesive backing that can not only withstand the full wash cycle but can also be simply peeled off at the end of the line and added to the HACCP manual, providing a permanent traceable record of the dishwasher's performance. The colour change indication is very easy to observe - TDI turns from white to a permanent black if 71 deg C has been achieved.
With its combination of reliability and ease of use, TDI provides an accessible means of demonstrating “Due Diligence” for Hygiene Managers that complies with the requirements of the International Flight Catering Association (IFCA) World Safety Guidelines. It is recommended as an evidence-based tool for the HACCP manual.
The TDI is also available as standard at 65, 82 and 93ºC. Other custom temperatures are available upon reuqest up to 99ºC, however, these are subject to minimum order quantities.
For further information please contact Stephen Preston, stevep@-m-c.com
