FlexNozzle - Jet shaping for sustainable cleaning processes!
The FlexNozzle is a new type of nozzle that can flexibly change its spray pattern solely through the applied water pressure. This innovative technology enables its use in established cleaning systems in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries, offering considerable potential for saving resources and time during the cleaning process.
At low water pressure, the special design of the FlexNozzle produces a fine spray. This is ideal for thoroughly wetting machine surfaces in order to soften layers of soil with the cleaning fluid. However, if the water pressure is increased and exceeds a defined pressure threshold, the jet shape automatically switches to a coherent water jet. This is characterized by a higher mechanical effect and is particularly effective in removing soil. No additional control line is required to change the jet shape, which allows the nozzle to be used in two-axis rotating target jet cleaners.
In the previous project “SmartNozzle”, the FlexNozzle concept was developed and an initial version was successfully tested in a laboratory environment. In order to bring the technology from TRL 4 (Technology Readiness Level) to TRL 6, further investigations with a prototype in a real-world application environment were required as part of the research project “FlexNozzle”. Another focus of the project was to adapt the nozzle to hygienic design guidelines to ensure its suitability for use in industrial environments.
The project was funded as a “Transformation Bridge” through the TUD Excite Innovation Pool as a one-year initiative and was successfully completed at the end of 2025.
We are now looking for partners to collaborate with us on the next stages of development. Partners who are interested in helping us further advance this technology. For more information, please see our technology offer (Download).
Project funding:
Transformation Bridge, TUD Excite – Innovation Pool
Funded by the program Validierungsförderung (validation funding) of the Freestate of Saxony.
Project duration:
01/2025 – 12/2025
Project management and contact:
Project leader: Dr.-Ing. Hannes Köhler
Project manager:
© Nils Eisfeld
Cleaning Technologies
NameDipl.-Ing. Matti Heide
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© Clemens Troll
Cleaning Technologies
NameDipl.-Ing. Sebastian Kricke
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