How Innovative Design is Transforming Industrial Washing Machines at IWM

Designing the Future of Industrial Washing

Behind every reliable industrial washing machine is a considered design process that balances hygiene, efficiency and long-term performance. At Industrial Washing Machines (IWM), that process is led by Design Manager Stan McDonald, whose team is shaping the next generation of machines for manufacturers across the UK and beyond. With more than 40 years’ experience behind the company, IWM has always believed great engineering starts well before a machine reaches the factory floor—it starts with design.

Leadership in industrial washing machine design
Stan joined Indwash in 2020 as a Design Engineer and Technical Writer before becoming Design Manager in 2024. He now oversees the entire design team, ensuring every machine is supported by accurate CAD models, clear documentation and robust standards. His remit extends far beyond drawings: he sets engineering direction, manages cross-department projects and ensures deadlines are met without compromising quality.

Designing for efficiency—from build to daily operation
Stan is passionate about efficiency, both in manufacture and in day-to-day use. On the build side, that means standardising components wherever possible to reduce waste, shorten lead times and ensure consistent quality. Operationally, it means machines that are simple to use, reliable under heavy workloads, and economical with water and energy—translating directly into lower running costs and fewer production headaches.

Embedding sustainability from the outset
Sustainability is built into the process from the start by simplifying layouts to reduce material waste, designing for long service life, and minimising water and energy consumption over the machine’s lifetime. By engineering smarter, IWM helps customers meet environmental targets without sacrificing performance.

Cutting errors with model-based CAD
A major step forward has been adopting model-based definition for sheet-metal parts. Instead of relying on traditional 2D drawings, key manufacturing data is embedded directly in the CAD model. This has reduced design labour, eliminated common translation errors between design and production, and accelerated project turnaround—freeing time for further innovation.

Hygiene-first engineering
For many customers, hygiene is non-negotiable. All IWM machines follow strict internal standards based on EHEDG guidelines, including effective drainage to avoid standing water, easy access for cleaning, and the elimination of crevices where contaminants could accumulate. These details make a significant difference in food, pharmaceutical and industrial settings.

Collaboration that works on the shop floor
The design team works closely with manufacturing and electrical departments throughout development. Regular reviews and open feedback loops ensure each machine is not only sound on screen but practical to build, service and operate.

Redefining standard machines
IWM is refining its standard range to improve safety, usability and sustainability. Every change is evaluated to ensure it delivers genuine customer value. The result is a range that is safer for operators, easier to run and maintain, and more efficient with resources. These improvements carry through to bespoke systems, so custom projects benefit from proven design principles.

Why Indwash design delivers long-term value
Experience sets IWM apart. With four decades in the industry and all major manufacturing stages in-house, the design team sees machines built in real time. A standout achievement has been the overhaul of CAD practices, improving communication, cutting waste and raising standards across the business. For customers, that means machines that work better, last longer and deliver tangible value on the factory floor.

Upgrade your industrial washing process—contact IWM
If you need an industrial washing machine that delivers outstanding hygiene, efficiency and long-term reliability, IWM can help. Whether you require a standard model or a fully bespoke system, our engineers will work with you to understand your process and design a solution that fits your exact requirements. Get in touch to discuss your application and discover how our machines can improve performance, reduce operating costs and support your sustainability goals.

For more information on How Innovative Design is Transforming Industrial Washing Machines at IWM talk to Industrial Washing Machines Ltd