Abstract: A machine for cleaning pots and pans wherein the machine is provided with first and second side access doors for permitting flow through movement of a pan/rack system and, in addition, with a switch and alignment means for permitting alignment of unobstructed compartments of the pan/rack system with oscillating spray arms as the pan/rack system is moved between the access doors and for inhibiting oscillation of the spray arms until alignment is reached. In a further aspect of the invention, the machine is additionally provided with a common counterweight and a cable and pulley system for simultaneously operating the two side access doors and a front access door of the machine.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for washing and drying reusable containers are disclosed. In the apparatus and method, the containers to be cleaned, after successively passing through washing and rinsing stations, are, thereafter, flipped by 180.degree. before passing through a drying station. This flipping action, which abruptly turns the containers end over end, causes a significant amount of excess fluid to be shaken from the containers. As a result, drying of the containers when passing through the drying station is greatly facilitated.In a further aspect of the apparatus and method of the invention, the containers after flipping are initially moved at a faster speed than a first speed associated with their passage through the washing and rinsing stations and, thereafter, moved through the drying station at a speed between the aforesaid two speeds.