Valve reliability: it's an open and shut case
In the competitive world of textile testing machines, reliability of
components counts a great deal, particularly if your machines are being
exported all over the world. Take small process valves, for example......
Leek based Roaches International is a growing force in the international
textile testing machine business. The company specialises in sample
dyeing and finishing processes and its machines aim to create, in the
laboratory, the processing conditions of full sized production machines.
This involves scaling down from hundreds to just tens of kilograms of
yarn while maintaining the correct process conditions in the sample
dyeing unit.
Roaches' latest product, the Colorpac, will dye yarn in 'standard'
packages at temperatures between 100 and 140°C, under pressurised
conditions. The package dimensions and weight are customer specified, and
up to four packages can be accommodated in each process vessel - or
'kier' - stacked vertically on a removable spindle. The kier is filled
with water and the dyes and other chemicals are added when the water is
re-circulated through the packages.
Many of the process elements are controlled using compact, air-operated,
angle seat valves supplied by Burkert. These, and other wetted parts, are
made mostly from stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance and to
ensure a long service life. The Burkert Type 2000 angle seat valve was
found to be perfect for the application. Not only does it cope with the
process chemicals, it also fitted the bill in terms of 'total cost of
ownership' - a key aspect of the Colorpac development.
Roaches' Tony Partridge says the Burkert valves have proved their worth.
We have tried most competing products but found Burkert to be the best.
Not only do they offer a high level of reliability in that we just never
get reports of requirements for replacements, but the company also offers
us an excellent standard of service.