Closed loop recycling system and dip tank for antimicrobial compounds

A method of applying antimicrobial solution to food items, comprising the steps of:

• providing a tank having a bottom and sides,
• filling the tank with a liquid antimicrobial solution to a designated level within the tank;
• conveying food items through the tank with a conveyor that is submerged in the liquid antimicrobial solution held in the tank, such that the food items conveyed on the conveyor are dipped in the liquid antimicrobial solution;
• spraying fresh antimicrobial solution into the tank through discharge nozzles located in the sides of the tank, wherein the discharge nozzles are positioned above the level of the conveyor but below the top level of the liquid antimicrobial solution contained within the tank, such that food items conveyed on the conveyor are agitated by the force of the spray from the discharge nozzles;
• and
• draining and recycling antimicrobial solution from the tank.

A rotary screen filter for filtering particulates from a liquid, the rotary screen filter comprising:

• a rotary drum comprising a screen, mesh or apertured filter portion and at least one solid portion having no apertures therein;
• at least one spray nozzle located above the rotary drum for spraying clean liquid onto the drum surface;
• an inlet spout for entry of liquid containing particulates, wherein the inlet spout is located in the interior of the rotary drum, and discharges liquid onto the solid portion of the rotary drum;
• a collection tank located underneath the rotary drum for collecting fluid filtered by the filter portion;
• and
• a screw impeller provided on the interior of the rotary drum, such that rotation of the drum causes solid particulates remaining in the drum to be impelled to an end of the drum for collection.