How the Valve for Flour was Specified
The AKO Pinch Valves that are fitted onto the silos were sourced by an original equipment manufacturer who have many years experience in the design, manufacture, installation, commission and servicing of bespoke specialist machinery for the food industry. They are also a specifier and installer of bulk handling systems.
The OEM chose to specify a Pinch Valve for this bakery because they found the gradual/tapered operation is better for the system, rather than the shock of a ball valve closing suddenly.
The Pinch Valve for flour assists with the application by preventing unauthorised flour filling or over-pressure events, whilst filling the silo.
The flour passes through the valve at ambient temperature, at a pressure of 0.8 Bar. Positioned vertically in a filling pipe, the valve is normally open and performs just one cycle per day as it is only in use for filling. Approximately 5 Litres of air is used to close off the Pinch Valve per operation.
Pinch Valve used within this application – VF100.02X.33.30LA
VF model, air operated, aluminium body, aluminium PN10/16 flanges, natural rubber white food quality sleeve (FDA approved).
Valves for Flour Experience & Satisfaction
The overall satisfaction with the valves for flour from AKO UK is excellent, with an engineer from the OEM company recently visiting site to replace two Pinch Valves after 13 years of reliable service! The length of time that the sleeves are replaced depends on the customers preference and budget, but the OEM recommend that the bakery fully inspects the valves for flour every 6 months.
The OEM who repair and replace the parts on this site have installed a solenoid, pressure switch, check valve and accumulator to ensure the valve operates even if the power is switched off in an attempt to bypass it.
Read our other case study involving flour, where AKO UK Pinch Valves just keep on giving, assisting flour that is transported through a blow line and fed into bins before being bagged. These valves have not needed any parts replacing in years.