Less resistance in the process line resulted in more stable operation

When small challenges in the process line become a burden on operations

In food production, a stable and efficient flow is essential to maintain a functioning process. Even minor components can have a significant impact on both print loss, cleaning convenience, and the need for maintenance.

At the customer’s facility, traditional spring-loaded check valves were installed in the process line. The valves performed their function, but the design with springs and internal components created several challenges in daily operation. 

The spring design caused unnecessary resistance in the system and thus contributed to higher pressure loss. At the same time, the mechanical components were subjected to wear, which required recurring inspections and replacements.

This resulted in repeated stops that had to be planned and managed by the maintenance staff.

The internal design of the valves also implied a potential risk of product residues and stagnation accumulation. In food production, where hygiene and effective cleaning are essential requirements, this is a factor that should be taken into account when selecting process components.

The challenges were not necessarily critical in themselves. But taken together, they affected efficiency and required resources that could have been used elsewhere in production.

The customer therefore needed a solution that could reduce flow resistance and maintenance requirements, while taking into account the hygienic requirements in the process. 

Magnetic check valves with focus on free flow and less maintenance

Alflow reviewed the customer's application with a focus on identifying a more suitable valve solution for the existing process. 

The choice fell on Ygros YSV – a magnetic counter-balance with a patented design, where the traditional mechanical spring is replaced by a magnetic locking mechanism. 

The difference lies primarily in the internal design of the valve. Without the traditional spring in the flow stream, a more unobstructed flow is achieved, which reduces the resistance in the system. 

At the same time, the springless design eliminates a mechanical wear component and reduces the classic stagnation points that can occur in traditional check valves. 

The solution included, among other things: 

• Magnetic locking mechanism – replaces the traditional spring and ensures the valve’s open and closed function. 

• Reduced flow resistance – The patented design provides a more unobstructed flow and contributes to lower print loss. 

• Fewer mechanical wear parts – the springless design reduces the need for maintenance and replacement of internal components. 

• Hygiene design – the design reduces typical stagnation points and supports the consideration of cleaning friendliness in food processes. 

By focusing on the valve's design rather than simply replacing the existing components with corresponding products, Alflow could help the customer find a solution that addressed several of the challenges at once.