Take Control of Your Concrete Plant with Flow Control Valves
Do you ever struggle with your pneumatically operated gates opening or closing too quickly? Trying to add a small amount of cement, only to have a gate "jog" and release far more than you need, can be frustrating and lead to inconsistencies in your mix. This common problem, whether in a fully automatic or manual control system, can often be solved by adding a simple flow control valve to the air exit port of the gate's pneumatic cylinder.
Most concrete batch plants use compressed air systems with solenoid valves to control their gates. These valves are often simple on/off switches, making precise control difficult. It is like having a kitchen faucet that is either fully on or completely off you lack the ability to fine-tune the flow.
How Flow Control Valves Work
Even with basic on/off solenoid valves, you can still gain control over the speed of your gates. The core concept is simple. Air must enter a pneumatic cylinder to move a gate in one direction and exit the cylinder for it to move in the other direction. By slowing the exit of this air, you effectively slow the movement of the gate.
A flow control valve does exactly this. It is a device that restricts the flow of air, allowing you to fine-tune the speed at which a gate opens or closes. The air may exit back through the solenoid valve or directly at the end of the cylinder. Inspecting your plant's specific design or consulting with the manufacturer will help you locate the correct air exit port for valve installation.
Safety Note: Always ensure you are properly trained in lockout/tagout procedures and all other applicable safety protocols before inspecting or working on your plant's pneumatic systems. Serious injury can occur during the operation and maintenance of concrete plant equipment.
Key Benefits of Flow Control
Flow control is particularly important for managing the release of bulk materials like cement and aggregates. A fast-opening valve can cause a surge of material, leading to inaccurate batch weights. By installing a flow control valve, you can achieve a more gradual and controlled flow of material, which provides several key benefits for your operation.
- Improved batching accuracy
- Reduced material waste
- Greater control over the mix
- Smoother, more predictable operation of gates and valves
This simple, cost-effective addition to your plant can make a significant difference in the quality of your concrete and the overall efficiency of your batching process.
