Festo was a recent core contributor in the successful upgrade of a large beverage bottling plant in Gauteng. The company became involved in the project in the first quarter of 2010 by supplying a state-of-the-art control valve terminal for use in the processing plant’s control and monitoring system and was subsequently present from concept phase through to installation and commissioning.
“The system is specifically designed to bridge the gap between electronics and pneumatics. The MPA FB-VI terminal not only improves the plant's cost efficiency, but also maximises its productivity,” says Peter Mulock-Houwer, sales engineer, Festo.
The MPA FB-VI valve terminal is designed to be configured to suit the end-user’s individual requirements exactly. This means that the user is free to choose the performance rates, features and communication methods, prior to the valve terminal being integrated into the plant’s processing system. This feature also saves time during installation and commissioning, resulting in lower costs for the end-user.
The compact design of the terminal also allows over 100 valves to be fitted into the panel, with room to spare for future expansion. The valves on the terminal are only 10 mm wide and provide a flow rate of 350 litres per minute, thus reducing the number of panels required to produce the same level of performance as larger valve terminals.
The MPA FB-VI acts as a pneumatic control block that controls the process actuators throughout the plant. The ball and valve actuators are used to control the flow of the product from the manufacturing point right through to the packaging section of the plant.
Festo added value to the project by building the panels to near-completion in its own workshop and then delivering an already tested product. In addition to providing free software and GSD system files, it also agreed to supply all the documentation required for maintenance and operation.
“Constant communication with the customer and end-user, as well as understanding each participant’s requirements completely enabled us to supply a superior service,” says Mulock-Houwer. “Despite tight delivery schedules, several changes in design and installation requirements, the project was completed within eight months.”
Noise protection for pneumatic knockers Neu Matics SA
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Noise in the workplace not only has serious health consequences, such as damage to the inner ear, headaches, dizziness, and even concentration and sleep disorders, but it also affects productivity. In order to keep operational noise levels as low as possible, singold gerätetechnik offers a range of solutions.
Read more...Redefining Industrial Automation with the new Festo Valve Terminal Festo South Africa
Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Festo recently introduced its latest innovation in the form of the Valve Terminal VTUX. This invention marks the beginning of a new era in valve terminals, with its features making it an impressive solution for the future.
Read more...Versatile cylinder monitoring ifm - South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
This IO-Link cylinder sensor from ifm, with two configurable hardware outputs, will upgrade your machine in no time.
Read more...Hydraulic connectors with residual pressure
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydraulic connections are vital in both outdoor and indoor industrial machinery. However, the hydraulics lines frequently require connecting and disconnecting for maintenance or changeover. The goal is to enable quick, easy swaps to enhance machine flexibility and productivity.
Read more...Ten considerations for optimum use of vacuum technology
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Vacuum technology plays a huge role in the packaging of foodstuffs and other products. Here are ten considerations to help you use vacuum technology as effectively and efficiently as possible, so that you can optimise processes and cut operating costs.
Read more...Oil-free beer and wine processing
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The food and beverage industry depends on superior quality, 100% oil-free compressed air to eliminate the presence of unwanted oil vapour throughout the production line.
Read more...Choosing a pneumatic knocker Neu Matics SA
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Pneumatic knockers are a valuable tool in minimising buildup of materials and preventing disruptions in material flow in silos, rotary dryers, coolers, granulators and coating drums. This helps plant managers improve production efficiency and product quality.
Read more...Easy couplings for extreme conditions Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
BMG’s Timken Quick-Flex couplings, which require minimal maintenance, are able to withstand extreme applications, including hydraulics, pumps, gearboxes, compressors, vibrator screens, and fans.
Read more...Innovative solutions to boost energy efficiency and cost savings
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As a leading manufacturer of high performance cartridge valves and integrated packages, Sun Hydraulics has gathered a collection of innovative solutions proven to significantly boost and improve energy efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and ultimately provide cost savings for the end-user.
Read more...Create and recover energy all in one check valve
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Energen is a new, high-efficiency check valve from Sun Hydraulics that allows free flow from inlet to outlet, and blocks flow in the opposite direction. Composed of an integrated generator that converts ...
printer friendly version