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  1. How to Close Out Sugaring Season on a Sweet Note

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    As the days grow warmer and trees start to bud, maple sugaring season winds down. The steady flow of sap slows as nighttime temperatures stay above freezing, and the changing trees trigger a chemical shift that can turn the sap bitter. When this happens, it’s time for syrup producers to wrap up operations and start planning for next year.

    A successful sugaring season starts with proper end-of-season maintenance. Here’s how to ensure your maple syrup production is in top shape when the next season rolls around.

    1. Inspect and Maintain Your Equipment

    Maple syrup production relies on specialized equipment, from spiles and buckets to evaporators and heat exchangers. Before packing everything away, take time to inspect each piece. Check for cracks, warping, rust, or any other damage that could affect performance next year.

    Pay special attention to shell and tube heat exchangers, which play a critical role in achieving the perfect syrup consistency and ensuring food safety. If anything needs replacing, now is the time—waiting until next season could leave you scrambling.

    2. Evaluate Your Tappable Trees

    High-quality syrup starts with healthy trees. Walk through your sugar bush to assess your maple trees, noting any that are dead, diseased, or damaged. Trees infested with insects or those producing lower-quality sap should be retired. Removing weaker trees allows healthier ones to thrive, ultimately improving your yield.

    3. Clean Up for a Fresh Start

    Maple syrup production is naturally sticky business. Sap, sugar residue, and outdoor debris can accumulate on equipment throughout the season. To keep everything in peak condition, thoroughly clean all tools, tanks, and tubing.

    Use hot water as your primary cleaning agent—soaps and detergents can leave behind unwanted flavors that may taint next year’s syrup. For deeper sanitation, refer to manufacturer recommendations for safe and effective cleaning solutions.

    Looking Ahead

    While it’s always a little bittersweet to see the season end, it’s also the start of another important phase—bottling, selling, and enjoying the fruits of your labor. Proper maintenance now ensures a smoother, more productive sugaring season next year.

    If you’re in the market for new equipment or need guidance on maintaining your shell and tube heat exchangers, the heat transfer experts at Enerquip are here to help. Get in touch to keep your operation running efficiently for seasons to come.

    More from the Enerquip Blog

    Maple Syrup Producers Use Heat Exchangers to Improve Production

    Tube Side or Shell Side: Comparing Fluid Allocation Options for Your Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger

    How Static Mixers & Turbulators Improve Heat Exchanger Efficiency

    Honey Warming Prevents Crystallization

    How Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers Benefit the Agriculture Industry

    Unique Process Conditions for Plant-Based Milk Production

  2. Helical vs. Serpentine: What’s the Best Way to Build an Industrial Hot Oil Heater?

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    When it comes to designing industrial hot oil heaters, one question pops up time and again:
    Should you choose a helical coil or a serpentine coil?

    As longtime designers and manufacturers of high-performance thermal fluid systems, we know the answer makes a big difference in heater efficiency, longevity, and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of both designs—and why Enerquip stands firmly behind the serpentine coil.

    Helical Coil Heaters: Traditional but Less Efficient

    Helical Coil HeaterThe helical coil design has been an industry standard for years. In this style, tightly wound coils are stacked within the radiant section of the heater (marked as A in the graphic), where heat transfers to the fluid through radiation on the inner surface of the tubes.

    In the convection section (B), heat transfer occurs only on the outer surface, which limits overall efficiency.

    Because of their tightly grouped coils, helical designs leave little room for thermal expansion. This can make repairs more difficult and lead to more frequent fluid degradation—especially at high temperatures. It’s not uncommon for stack temps to exceed 800°F, and the design typically limits operation above 400°F.

    While widely used, this setup can become a maintenance headache over time.

    Serpentine Coil Heaters: Enerquip’s Go-To Design

    At Enerquip, we do things differently. Our standard hot oil heaters feature a serpentine coil design—and for good reason.

    Enerquip Serpentine Coil Thermal Fluid Heater

    In the radiant section (A), the spaced-out coils allow heat to reach the front, back, and sides of each tube. This improves heat transfer and reduces hot spots. In the convection section (B), more surface area is exposed, keeping stack temperatures lower and extending heater life.

    This design not only improves thermal efficiency but also results in:

    • Less fluid degradation
    • Longer tube life
    • Simpler maintenance

    That’s why we’ve made serpentine coil heaters the Enerquip standard—and why we encourage customers to consider this smarter, more efficient option.

    Want to Learn More?

    If you’re in the market for a new hot oil heater—or just doing your homework—here are some helpful resources to dig deeper:

    Whether you’re replacing an old unit or planning your next system upgrade, our team is here to help you choose the right design—built to last and perform.

    Call us at (833) 516-6888 or request a quote to get started.

  3. How Food Safety Regulations Shape Equipment Decisions in Animal Food Manufacturing

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    Every year, millions of Americans are affected by foodborne illnesses—many of which can be prevented through smarter processes and better equipment. The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) continues to shape how animal food manufacturers operate, placing a sharp focus on Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) and preventive controls. In this post, we’ll explore what CGMPs mean for your facility, how preventive controls work, and how equipment like stainless steel heat exchangers can support your compliance efforts.

    What Are CGMPs and Why Do They Matter?

    CGMPs provide the foundation for a clean, safe manufacturing environment. In the animal food sector, these practices cover critical areas like:

    • Sanitation and hygiene
    • Water quality and environmental conditions
    • Personnel training
    • Equipment design and maintenance

    According to the FDA, these practices reflect actions that manufacturers should already be taking as part of their daily operations. The goal is to prevent contamination from ever occurring—not just respond to it after the fact.

    For example, equipment used in production should be:

    • Easy to clean
    • Made from nontoxic materials
    • Properly maintained
    • Designed to prevent contamination

    Going Beyond the Basics: Preventive Controls

    Once CGMPs are in place, manufacturers must take it a step further with preventive controls. These are tailored strategies based on the specific risks at your facility. Preventive controls include:

    • Process controls (e.g., heating, cooling, or mixing steps)
    • Sanitation controls to reduce pathogens or physical hazards
    • Supply chain controls to ensure incoming materials are safe
    • Recall plans in case contamination does occur

    Each facility must develop a written food safety plan, including a hazard analysis and the measures in place to minimize those risks. Redundancy is encouraged—if one safety step fails, another should catch the issue before it impacts product quality or public health.

    How Equipment Choices Support Compliance

    Your process equipment plays a huge role in meeting FSMA expectations. That’s why many manufacturers choose stainless steel shell and tube heat exchangers. They offer several CGMP-aligned advantages:

    • Sanitary design: Stainless steel is non-reactive and easy to clean.
    • Durability: It holds up well under pressure and resists corrosion.
    • Ease of maintenance: Options like straight-tube or removable U-tube bundles simplify cleaning and inspections.

    It’s also important to monitor equipment for signs of wear and tear. High-pressure differentials can cause stress cracks or leaks over time, which could lead to contamination—especially if the water or fluids used aren’t food-grade.

    Regular inspections and timely repairs or replacements are key. A proactive maintenance plan not only protects your product but keeps you in line with FDA expectations.

    Stay Ahead of Compliance

    While FSMA inspections are now well underway, staying compliant is an ongoing process. Reviewing your food safety plan, employee training programs, and equipment regularly will help keep your operations safe and audit-ready.

    If you’re evaluating new equipment or upgrading existing systems to meet CGMP standards, Enerquip’s stainless steel heat exchangers are designed with compliance in mind.

    Contact us to learn how we can support your food safety goals.

  4. What to Know About Clean-in-Place (CIP) Systems

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    In the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, three things are non-negotiable: product quality, minimal downtime, and strict sanitation. But achieving all three? That takes more than elbow grease—it requires smart design, thoughtful planning, and the right equipment.

    One key part of that strategy is a clean-in-place (CIP) system. These systems are widely used to clean the interior surfaces of pipes, vessels, heat exchangers, and other process equipment—without having to disassemble anything. They’re efficient, effective, and meet the strict standards set by regulatory bodies like 3-A Sanitary Standards.

    Key Components in a Clean-in-Place (CIP) System

    CIP systems come in a range of styles and configurations, but most share some essential components:

    Core Equipment May Include:

    • Pumps for introducing chemical sanitizers and water
    • Valves for flow control
    • A heat exchanger on the supply side to maintain cleaning solution temperature
    • A system for recording data such as temperature, cycle times, and material usage (manual or digital)

    Common Tank Configurations:

    • Single-tank systems: Combine rinse and wash in one cycle
    • Two-tank systems: Separate rinse and wash for better control
    • Three-tank systems: Add a recovery tank to reuse solutions
    • Four-tank systems: Include additional storage for acid, alkaline, or sanitizing agents

    Depending on your cleaning goals, CIP systems can be one-pass (with precise chemical dosing) or multi-pass (requiring more tanks for solution reuse).

    How Water and Chemicals Are Delivered

    Distribution within the system is also key. The two most common delivery methods are:

    • Spray balls: Best for processes that don’t require high pressure
    • Rotary spray heads: Ideal for applications needing higher impact cleaning

    Regardless of the spray method, it’s critical that all interior surfaces are fully reached. A missed spot—especially in hard-to-clean areas—can lead to contamination, product quality issues, or compliance violations.

    How Flow Rate Impacts CIP System Effectiveness

    Flow rate is an important factor in CIP performance. While it might seem like “more is better,” high flow rates also increase water, energy, and chemical usage. The sweet spot? Just enough flow to ensure thorough cleaning without unnecessary cost or waste.

    When a cleaning issue arises, the instinct may be to crank up the flow. But in many cases, other targeted solutions are more effective—especially in tricky spots like bends, corners, and dead legs (like those found in U-tube heat exchangers).

    Alternative Cleaning Strategies:

    • Pulsating or reversing flow to create turbulence
    • Ice pigging (flushing with an ice slurry)
    • Effervescent solutions that generate wall-shear stress
    • Jet cleaning to direct force at hard-to-reach areas
    • Pre-draining lines before the CIP cycle to create a stronger initial surge

    Why CIP System Documentation Matters for Compliance

    Regulatory agencies require food manufacturers to document cleaning processes. Fortunately, many modern CIP systems do this automatically—but automation doesn’t mean hands-off. Frequent review and manual checks are still essential.

    Today’s software-based CIP event recorders can track:

    • Cycle start and end times
    • Chemical and water usage
    • Interruptions or deviations in the process
    • Operator interventions (pauses, aborts, extra steps)
    • Missed or repeated steps

    These tools not only improve traceability and compliance—they also provide insight into trends and issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

    Improve CIP Performance with the Right Heat Exchanger

    If you’re upgrading your CIP system or building a new one, the right heat exchanger can make all the difference. A high-quality stainless steel shell and tube heat exchanger is built for both efficiency and cleanability—and plays a key role in maintaining sanitary conditions.

    At Enerquip, our knowledgeable team understands the importance of meeting 3-A, ASME-BPE, and other stringent industry standards. Whether you’re designing a new CIP system or retrofitting an existing one, we’re here to help.

    Contact us today to learn more about our sanitary heat exchanger solutions.

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  5. Enerquip Expands Welding Simulator Program to Local Schools

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    Enerquip Expands Welding Simulator Program to Local Schools

    MASH’s Just Girls Tech class got a spark-free taste of welding, thanks to Enerquip’s simulators and pros Travis Frost, Welder, and Trent Weik, Plant Foreman—working in collaboration with tech ed teacher Mr. Craig Diedrich.

    As the demand for skilled welders continues to rise, Enerquip is turning up the heat on welding education—this time by teaming up with local school districts to bring welding simulators straight into tech ed classrooms.

    Following a successful partnership with the Colby School District, Enerquip has now collaborated with the Medford Area School District to enhance hands-on learning through its AugmentedArc® and MobileArc™ Augmented Reality Welding Systems from Miller. The simulators are currently in use in the Just Girls Tech class at Medford Area Senior High School (MASH), giving students a safe, immersive way to explore welding with realistic, interactive training tools.

    “These simulators give our students a unique opportunity to get real-world welding experience in a safe, controlled setting,” said Mr. Craig Diedrich, Tech Ed Teacher at MASH. “It’s one thing to teach from a textbook, but it’s another to let students see their welds come to life—digitally and physically. That experience is invaluable.”

    For MASH junior Kayelee Lindahl, the simulator program has been the perfect blend of hands-on learning and virtual tech.

    “I have a lot of fun with tech ed classes. They’re so hands-on compared to other classes I could take,” said Kayelee, who’s currently in the Just Girls Tech class. “The Enerquip simulator is really cool. It gives us the feeling of real-life welding without the spattering of sparks, and it’s got a really similar speed and pace compared to real-life welds.”

    Enerquip Expands Welding Simulator Program to Local Schools

    MASH Junior Kayelee Lindahl digitally welds with the AugmentedArc® system, while tech ed teacher Mr. Craig Diedrich (left) tracks her progress in real time.

    Kayelee, who also completed Northcentral Technical College’s Welding 1 & 2 courses—offered right at MASH—says her growing skills are helping her consider welding as a potential career. “I love seeing the progress from my first welds of the year to where I am now.”

    This expansion marks a new chapter in Enerquip’s commitment to workforce development. By integrating augmented reality into local classrooms, the company is helping students build confidence, develop technical skills, and explore future careers—before ever picking up a real torch.

    “Investing in future welders means investing in our community,” said Tim Strebig, Facilities & Operations Manager at Enerquip. “By bringing this technology into schools, we’re not only sparking interest in welding, we’re lighting the way for the next generation of skilled tradespeople.”

    To bring this partnership to your school—call Tim Strebig at 715-748-5888.

     

     

  6. How Evaporation Equipment Powers Food, Pharma, Energy & More

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    Introduction to Evaporation Technology

    Evaporation is a critical process across multiple industries, enabling concentration, purification, and recovery of valuable materials. Whether in food processing, pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, or wastewater treatment, evaporation equipment—like shell and tube heat exchangers—play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and cost reduction.

    While many associate evaporators with solvent recovery after plant oil extraction, their applications extend far beyond that. Here, we’ll explore the diverse uses of evaporation technology and how engineers can optimize these systems for maximum performance.

    Enerquip falling film evaporators for a plant oil extraction process

    Enerquip falling film evaporators for a plant oil extraction process

    How an Evaporator Works

    An evaporator functions by applying heat to a liquid, causing its volatile components to vaporize while leaving behind concentrated solids or solutes. Depending on the industry, either the vaporized material or the concentrated residue can be the desired product.

    Evaporators are essential for:
    ✔ Concentrating valuable substances in food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals
    ✔ Purifying solvents and liquids for reuse, reducing waste
    ✔ Enhancing sustainability in water treatment and environmental applications

    The Many Applications of Evaporators

    1. Food & Beverage Processing

    Evaporation plays a key role in the concentration and preservation of food and beverages, enhancing flavor, texture, and shelf life.

    • Fruit Juice Concentration – Removing excess water while preserving nutrients and taste.
    • Dairy Processing – Concentrating milk, whey, and other dairy products for further processing into powders or condensed milk.
    • Sugar Production – Thickening sugar syrups before crystallization.
    2. Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries

    Precision is crucial in pharmaceutical manufacturing, and evaporators support multiple processes, including:

    • Active Ingredient Concentration – Ensuring that medicinal compounds reach the desired potency.
    • Essential Oil Extraction – Producing pure, high-quality oils for use in aromatherapy, skincare, and medicine.
    • Solvent Recovery – Purifying solvents used in drug formulation for reuse, reducing waste and costs.
    3. Chemical & Petrochemical Manufacturing
    Vertical straight tube exchanger for an industrial multi-stage evaporation process

    Vertical straight tube exchanger for an industrial multi-stage evaporation process

    Industrial evaporators are vital for chemical production, supporting processes such as:

    • Concentrating Acids and Alkalis – Used in manufacturing detergents, fertilizers, and industrial chemicals.
    • Solvent Separation – Recovering and purifying solvents from reaction mixtures.
    • Polymer and Resin Production – Controlling viscosity and composition through precise evaporation techniques.
    4. Wastewater Treatment & Environmental Applications

    With sustainability becoming a top priority, evaporation systems are helping industries manage waste more effectively:

    • Industrial Waste Reduction – Removing water from liquid waste streams to minimize disposal costs.
    • Brine Concentration in Desalination – Extracting fresh water while reducing brine volume.
    • Heavy Metal Recovery – Allowing industries to reclaim valuable metals from wastewater for reuse.
    5. Textile & Dye Manufacturing

    Evaporation processes are used to:

    • Enhance Dye Fixation – Removing excess water from dye solutions to ensure deeper color penetration and durability.
    • Textile Finishing – Assisting in chemical concentration for fabric treatment processes.
    6. Power Generation & Renewable Energy

    Thermal evaporation is an essential component of:

    • Steam Power Plants – Concentrating boiler feedwater to optimize energy efficiency.
    • Biofuel Production – Removing water from bioethanol and biodiesel mixtures to improve fuel quality.
    • Thermal Desalination for Power Plants – Recycling water for use in cooling systems and steam generation.

    Choosing the Right Evaporation Equipment

    With such a wide range of applications, shell and tube heat exchanger design for evaporation is critical. Engineers and facility managers must consider factors such as:

    • Flow Rate & Scalability – Systems must be designed to handle varying input volumes efficiently.
    • Energy Consumption – Minimizing heat loss and optimizing energy use for cost savings.
    • Material Compatibility – Ensuring the system can withstand corrosive substances or food-grade applications.
    • Sanitary Design – Polished surfaces and easy-cleaning features for industries with strict hygiene requirements.

    The Future of Evaporation Technology

    As industries push for greater efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, evaporation technology will continue to evolve. Advances in automation, heat recovery, and modular system design are making these systems more adaptable than ever.

    If you’re considering implementing an evaporation system or upgrading your current setup, Enerquip’s experts can help you find the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to explore customized solutions for your industry.

    More from the Enerquip Blog

    Rouging: What It Is and How to Avoid It

    The Case for Waste Heat Recovery: Why Your Facility Shouldn’t Ignore It

    Why Careful Wastewater Treatment for Breweries Matters

    Closed-Loop Process Cooling Reduces Water, Energy Use in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

    Common Questions About Pharma-Grade Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

    Decoding the Delicate Balance of Sizing Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

  7. Rouging: What It Is and How to Avoid It

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    What Causes Rouging in Stainless Steel Equipment — and How to Prevent It

    Pharmaceutical and sanitary manufacturers know that when it comes to high-purity processing, every detail matters — especially the equipment. That’s why stainless steel shell and tube heat exchangers are a go-to choice. They’re durable, cost-effective, and resistant to corrosion and staining.

    But even stainless steel has its vulnerabilities.

    While it’s famously tough, stainless steel isn’t invincible. Over time, under certain conditions, it can begin to show signs of wear. One such red flag — literally — is rouging.

    What Is Rouging?

    Rouging, pronounced ROO-jing, is a colorful surface discoloration that typically appears in shades of red, orange, or yellow — though it can also show up as pink, purple, or brown. While it may look like just a cosmetic issue, rouging is actually a sign that something’s happening beneath the surface.

    Technically, rouging isn’t corrosion itself, but a symptom of it. It’s often the result of iron oxide buildup, and while the specific chemical makeup can vary, the underlying message is the same: the passive layer that protects stainless steel may be compromised.

    The Role of the Passive Layer

    Stainless steel owes much of its durability to a thin, naturally forming oxide layer that protects it from chemical reactions. This passive layer is formed when the steel is exposed to oxygen. But if the chromium-to-iron ratio drops — due to heat, wear, or chemical exposure — that protective layer might not form properly.

    When that happens, the metal becomes more vulnerable, and rouging can follow.

    What Causes Rouging?

    Rouging isn’t fully understood, but some common triggers include:

    • Poor welding or fabrication practices
    • Contaminants like iron particles or steel dust
    • High iron content in fluids or cleaning agents
    • Frequent exposure to high temperatures (140°F and up)
    • Extreme pH levels (either very acidic or very basic)
    • Surface imperfections or damage

    Even if you’re following all the right steps, rouging can still occur. The key is to minimize the risk and catch it early.

    How to Prevent Rouging in Stainless Steel Equipment

    Here are a few smart steps to protect your equipment — and your product:

    1. Select the Right Materials

    316L stainless steel is a popular choice for pharmaceutical-grade heat exchangers because of its low carbon content and strong resistance to corrosion. It’s also austenitic, meaning it can stand up to heat and stress.

    For even more protection, consider duplex stainless steel, which combines the benefits of both austenitic and ferritic structures for superior durability and corrosion resistance.

    2. Work with a Trusted Fabricator

    Rouging often starts with improper construction. Choosing a reputable equipment manufacturer helps ensure your equipment is fabricated to meet strict sanitary standards like ASME-BPE. Be sure to discuss your application, cleaning processes, and operating environment so your fabricator can recommend the best material and surface finish.

    3. Understand the Risk Factors

    Rouging is more likely to happen under these conditions:

    • Long exposure to temperatures over 140°F
    • Cleaning or process chemicals with extreme pH levels
    • Surface roughness or imperfections

    Processes that require these conditions aren’t inherently flawed — they just require extra monitoring and preventative maintenance.

    4. Electropolish for a Smoother Finish

    A smooth surface helps reduce rouging by minimizing crevices where contaminants can settle. Electropolishing removes microscopic imperfections and supports the formation of a stable passive layer — making your stainless steel more resistant to corrosion and discoloration.

    What to Do if You Spot Rouging

    Don’t panic — and definitely don’t start scrubbing with harsh chemicals. First, evaluate the discoloration and look for potential sources: temperature spikes, cleaning agents, or surface wear.

    In many cases, rouging looks worse than it is. Still, it’s smart to consult with an expert who can assess the situation, determine the cause, and guide you on the best path forward — whether that means cleaning, repassivation, or replacement.

    Bottom Line: Rouging isn’t always preventable, but it is manageable. By understanding the conditions that cause it and taking proactive steps, pharmaceutical manufacturers can protect both their equipment and their end product.

    Need stainless steel heat exchangers built to last?
    Contact the experts at Enerquip. Our team is ready to help you select and customize the right solution for your process — with the durability and purity your product demands.

    More from the Enerquip Blog

    Closed-Loop Process Cooling Reduces Water, Energy Use in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

    Common Questions About Pharma-Grade Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

    Decoding the Delicate Balance of Sizing Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

    Discover the Hidden Brilliance of Metal Surfaces: Unleash the Power of Electropolishing

    Plant Steam vs. Culinary Steam vs. Pure Steam. What’s the difference?

  8. Nitrogen Blanketing in Thermal Fluid Heating Systems

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    What is Nitrogen Blanketing?

    Nitrogen blanketing is a critical process used in industrial heating systems to enhance safety, efficiency, and longevity. It involves introducing nitrogen gas into an expansion tank to displace oxygen, preventing oxidation and degradation of the thermal fluid.

    Why It Matters in Thermal Fluid Systems

    In closed-loop heating systems, expansion tanks accommodate the thermal expansion of heated fluids. Without nitrogen blanketing, air enters the tank, introducing oxygen that accelerates fluid oxidation, shortens its lifespan, and increases maintenance needs. By replacing oxygen with nitrogen, oxidation is prevented, preserving fluid quality and system performance.

    Key Benefits of Nitrogen Blanketing

    1. Prevents Overflow – In systems where the expansion tank isn’t located at the highest point, a pressurized N₂ blanket keeps thermal fluid from draining back into the tank during shutdown. This helps avoid messy spills and wasted fluid.
    2. Enhanced Safety – Eliminates oxygen, reducing fire and explosion risks in flammable fluid systems.
    3. Extended Fluid Life – Prevents oxidation, minimizing sludge buildup and the need for frequent fluid replacement.
    4. Improved Efficiency – Maintains fluid integrity, ensuring optimal heat transfer and energy use.
    5. Lower Maintenance Costs – Reduces system wear and breakdowns, saving time and money.
    6. Environmental Impact – Longer-lasting fluids mean less waste and better sustainability.

    A Smart Investment for Industrial Heating

    Beyond safety, nitrogen blanketing is a strategic choice for engineers and facility managers looking to optimize performance and cut costs. While there’s an initial setup investment, the long-term savings in fluid replacement, energy use, and maintenance make it a cost-effective solution.

    If you’re looking to upgrade your thermal fluid heating system, Enerquip’s experts can help you implement the right nitrogen blanketing solution for your needs. Contact us today to learn more!

     

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  9. Join the Enerquip Design Engineering Team

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    CAD Design Engineer: Join the Enerquip Team in Medford, WI

    As a leading supplier of industrial and sanitary heating and cooling equipment, Enerquip is a stable, growing company with excellent benefits, friendly people, and an employee tenure more than twice the national average.

    We’re looking for a CAD Design Engineer to join our team in Medford, WI.

    Apply Now
    Major Duties & Responsibilities:
    • Creates and manages production drawings: Uses SolidWorks CAD software to develop and update detailed part and assembly drawings, while maintaining an organized system for CAD files.
    • Finalizes designs with precision: Confirms dimensions, materials, and part relationships to produce accurate final sketches and machine layouts that ensure proper fit and function.
    • Applies technical expertise: Leverages knowledge of machinery, engineering principles, math, and physical sciences to support smart, effective design work.
    • Interprets and executes specifications: Reads and interprets technical prints and specs to develop equipment designs that meet client needs and industry standards.
    • Prepares documentation and reports: Generates Bills of Materials (BOMs), completes ASME Code Calculations (Section VIII, Division 1), and compiles data reports for National Board review and registration.
    • Collaborates across teams: Works closely with sales, quality, engineering, and manufacturing teams to bring new and revised designs to life.
    • Demonstrates mechanical and drafting skills: Brings strong drafting ability, mechanical aptitude, and a clear understanding of technical terminology to every project.
    Working in Design at Enerquip
    Skills Required:
    • Strong leadership skills, including time management, organization, and communication.
    • Proficiency with SolidWorks, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat.
    • Committed to problem-solving and continual learning.
    • Ability to communicate and work well with others in a spirit of cooperation and teamwork.
    Education & Experience:
    • Associate or bachelor’s degree in mechanical design, engineering technology, or relevant technical experience.
    • SolidWorks experience is preferred.
    • Experience designing according to ASME Section VIII is a plus.
    Schedule & Location:
    • Full time, day shift
    • No weekends
    • In-person in Medford, WI

    Our Team Enjoys:

    • 15 days starting PTO + 10 paid holidays per year
    • Up to a 12% annual bonus
    • Flexible schedule, including half-day Fridays
    • A culture that values continual learning and promoting from within
    • Competitive compensation and benefit package
    • Award-winning health plan

    If you value integrity, drive, quality, and care—and you’re ready to be part of a team that lives those values every day—we invite you to apply now!

    Apply Now

     

  10. Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers Help Produce Quality Honey

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    The Growing Demand for Honey

    Honey is a remarkably versatile ingredient, enhancing everything from fried chicken to kale chips with its natural sweetness. More than just a pantry staple, its popularity continues to grow as consumers prioritize natural, unprocessed foods.

    Over the past decade, honey consumption has steadily risen and is expected to remain strong into 2025 and beyond. In 2023, the average American consumed about 19.5 fluid ounces, reflecting the continued shift toward natural sweeteners.

    With rising demand comes higher consumer expectations. Shoppers seek honey that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing and long-lasting.

    What Consumers Want in Honey

    When browsing store shelves, most consumers prefer liquid honey with a bright, clear appearance. They don’t want to see floating particles like pollen, wax, or—worst of all—bee parts.

    Another key concern? Crystallization. While crystallization is a natural process and doesn’t mean the honey has gone bad, most shoppers aren’t fans of solidified or cloudy honey. Slowing this process is essential for maintaining honey’s appeal on the store shelf.

    How Filtration and Pasteurization Create an Attractive Product

    Since all honey will crystallize eventually, producers use specific methods to slow the process and create a high-quality, long-lasting product. Two essential steps in this process are filtration and pasteurization.

    1. Filtration: Removing Unwanted Particles

    Filtration helps eliminate foreign particles, pollen, and even microscopic air bubbles that contribute to faster crystallization. There are various filtration methods available to honey producers, with some of the most effective processes removing:

    • Dust and pollen
    • Tiny insect parts (like bee wings)
    • Other natural debris

    By refining honey through effective filtration, producers can create a clear and visually appealing product that meets consumer expectations.

    2. Pasteurization: Extending Honey’s Shelf Life

    Pasteurization plays a crucial role in preserving honey’s liquid form. While overheating can damage honey’s natural flavors and nutrients, a controlled heating process minimizes these risks.

    By heating honey to the desired temperature—typically between 145°F and 185°F (63°C to 85°C), depending on the process—manufacturers can:

    • Reduce crystallization
    • Remove tiny air bubbles
    • Improve clarity and consistency

    Using a shell and tube heat exchanger is one of the best ways to achieve precise heating without scorching the honey. This equipment ensures even heat distribution, preventing localized overheating that could degrade the honey’s quality. For even better heat dissipation, manufacturers can incorporate a steam bustle into the unit’s design.

    The Right Equipment for High-Quality Honey Processing

    For honey producers looking to perfect their filtration and pasteurization process, investing in the right equipment is key. Shell and tube heat exchangers provide a gentle and efficient way to maintain honey’s natural properties while enhancing its shelf appeal.

    If you’re ready to improve your honey processing system, contact the experts at Enerquip. We can help you find the best heat exchanger solution to keep your honey looking and tasting its best.

     

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    Maple Syrup Producers Use Heat Exchangers to Improve Production

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