Diverter Valves
Choosing the correct diverter valve
for a pneumatic conveying process can be daunting. There are many factors to consider and designs available. It is critical to know
the process requirements to make the proper choice. Selecting the right valve for the application allows for less downtime,
which reduces costs. These efficiencies are essential components to an increase in company profits. See Diverter Valves for more information.
Essential Considerations
Application Requirements
Some processing systems require diverters to direct product from two sources to one tank or destination, but many need a diverter valve to direct flow from one source to two or more destinations. In many cases, different valve designs will be necessary depending on these factors and direction of flow. However, Zeppelin-USA offers a broad spectrum of diverters that work in any conveyance direction and can handle both redirect methods.
Installation Considerations
When conveyance processes require diverters to take product from multiple sources to one or more destinations or from one source to multiple destinations, it is vital to consider how a certain manufacturer’s valve design will install in the system. Make certain that installation method meets system safety and application criteria. This can greatly affect costs, and thus, the bottom line. Easy installation and mounting as well as sealing options are important. Diverter valves designed by the experts at Zeppelin-USA are easily modified to fit exact system requirements; therefore, ensuring process reliability and integrity.
Dilute Phase or Dense Phase Conveyance
The pressure rating on diverters depends on which method of conveyance a process uses. Manufacturers are required to rate each of their valve designs. Dilute phase conveying involves line pressures up to 15 psig or 1bar, and dense phase conveying creates pressures up to 90 psig or 6 bars. The pressures that a pneumatic system reaches are also affected by valve size.
Type of Product
The type of product to be handled by the conveyance system also affects diverter valve selection. Factors such as whether the product is abrasive, fragile, friable or mixed-batch will all be factors in selecting valve type, size, and sealing system.
Sealing Systems
Manufacturers such as Zeppelin-USA offer a variety of available sealing systems depending on method of conveyance and material handled. These options allow for maximum processing efficiency. For example, inflatable sealing is ideal for fine powders and cleaning; absolutely no leaks occurring during the process. Static, self-pressing sealing is built into the housing of the valve, allows no leakage, and requires no extra shut-off devices greatly increasing cost effectiveness. Non-contact sealing systems ensure product purity through its no-contact labyrinth sealing. Lateral sealing is also a non-contact sealing system that achieves maximum material integrity as bulk product and sealing systems never contact one another.
Choosing a Manufacturer
With so many valve designs and manufacturers available to choose from, it can be difficult to decide whom to trust with your business. At Zeppelin-USA, the full range of diverter valves available offers appropriate solutions for any application. Valves can be easily retrofitted to be perfectly geared to process requirements.