Ecolab support has been extremely helpful in dialing in our CIP process.
I think their chemicals are too expensive, even on the bulk scale we buy them. They are effective, though. I've been told its because their approved for our organic/kosher/allergen-free/gluten-free products, but I don't buy it. I'm also not the one paying the bills.
They also attack every CIP issue with chemicals (especially new, fancy, pricey ones). Sometimes its the right answer, sometimes an expensive band-aid.
Anyway, here is how we CIP our kettles/process lines/fillers:
1. Hot rinse with water from recovered post-caustic rinse
2. AC-103 (NaOH) diluted to 2% at 180F, recirc for 30 min. (I think its more effective and easier on the pumps at 4% caustic and a lower temp, but its more expensive)
3. Fresh water hot/cold rinse (recovered)
4. Quorum Red (Phosphoric/Citric Acid) wash, diluted to 1%, recirc for 20 min
5. Fresh water rinse
6. Sanitizer recirc (Oxonia Active = PAA, with some H2O2 and Acetic acid) for 2 min (or until negative swab-test)
Note: I work in a small plant that pasteurizes and packages fruit purees and yogurt, but the process side looks/functions very much like a brewery.