Food & Drink Processing & Packaging Issue 51 2024 | Page 27

Here at North Ridge Pumps , we ’ re not tied to a single pump technology . We use our expertise to offer a tailor-made solution , not something taken off the shelf .
Rheopecty is the characteristic of some fluids to become more viscous if they undergo shearing forces . The longer these forces are operating , the higher the viscosity . In short , rheopectic fluids , such as some lubricants , thicken or solidify when agitated or shaken .
The opposite and much more common type of behaviour is called thixotropy . Here , some fluids that are thick or viscous when static will begin to flow when they ’ re agitated , shaken , shear-stressed or just put under stress . It then takes a while for them to return to their original viscous state .
3 . Power source
Sanitary drum pumps can use a range of different power sources . They can use electricity working on differing voltages such as 110V / 230V or 3 phase , air power or even be hand-operated .
Something else to factor into the decision is whether the unit is to be installed in a safe area away from flammable liquids or vapours . Or perhaps it ’ s to go into an ATEX zone which would require a full ATEX Pump kit . This can play a major part in deciding the pump and motor type we specify . aggressive and where the exact breakdown of chemical composition is unknown , making the right choice of seal more difficult .
5 . Size of container
Fluids are transported in a multitude of containers ranging from small tote boxes of 25L and bigger 205L drums , all the way up to Intermediate Bulk Containers ( IBC ) and bespoke tanks . The size of the tank and the properties of the fluid it ’ s transporting will dictate the type of pump specified , and the method used to extract its contents .
6 . Hygiene standards and cleanability
For this specific project , the client would need a sanitary drum pump which was completely hygienic . This meant that a stainless steel pump could certainly have been an option .
Alternatively , a third partyaccredited hygienic pump could be a solution . This would need certification by an independent organisation such as 3-A , FDA or EHEDG as meeting food hygiene standards . These state that pumps used for transferring food or fluids must not affect the taste or composition of the material being transferred , must be fully traceable and inert .
7 . Bulk transfer or metered batching
Barrel or drum pumps can be configured to carry out bulk transfer of fluids , or more precise metered batching . They incorporate a flowmeter hose and can incorporate a batching facility with a range of pre-sets enabling batches to be decanted at the touch of a button . told us they wanted a sanitary pump kit designed to quickly decant vinegar from intermediate bulk containers ( IBC ) into smaller drums .
Here at North Ridge Pumps , we ’ re not tied to a single pump technology . We use our expertise to offer a tailor-made solution , not something taken off the shelf . So we always choose the most costeffective pump for any specific client and project .
For this application , we specified a sanitary barrel pump manufactured in highly polished and hygienic 316 stainless steel . It ’ s fully configurable and comes with a variety of options to give the client greater production flexibility .
Due to the low viscosity of vinegar , we specified an impeller pump type which is specially designed for liquids with low viscosities which flow easily and are not affected by shear forces .
All connections are tri-clamp ensuring that they are fully sanitisable for maximum levels of food hygiene . We supplied the pump with 2m of food grade hose and a dispensing nozzle for full control of every fluid transfer .
Looking for a quick and easy way to empty containers without having to use manual handling ? We can specify a bespoke solution for your business . Visit www . northridgepumps . com or call 01773 302 660 to see how we can help .
4 . Mechanical seal or seal-less
Some liquids have the property of crystallising when they come into contact with air . In this case , mechanically-sealed pumps are essential to ensure that air doesn ’ t get into the pump . In addition , certain chemicals like solvents evaporate , so the unit needs to be sealed to stop the contents getting out into the atmosphere .
Seal-less sanitary drum pumps are best for certain liquids which are
With transfer accuracy levels of 99 %, these units take away a great deal of time-consuming weighing and measuring of liquids , and help boost productivity and profitability .
In addition , barrel pumps can be set up by the operating company to provide different levels of access for users and managers with varying levels of access .
Our specification for this client The overseas wine manufacturer
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