AKO develops easy-to-clean pinch valves

Pinch valves are often installed in hard to reach places, meaning that manual cleaning can be very costly. A fully automatic cleaning (CIP = Cleaning in Place) can save time and money.

The new air operated pinch valves from AKO Armaturen, available in nominal sizes DN10-100 (3/8 – 4"), are characterised by an easy-to-clean (CIP), sterilisable (SIP-capable), and bacteria-tight design in accordance with EHEDG certification type EL Class I and type EL ASEPTIC Class I. Furthermore, the VMCE pinch valves are piggable (RIP).

The various connecting options for the AKO pinch valves of series VMCE are:

• Weld-on ends according to DIN 11850 row 2 or ASTM A554.
• Flange according to DIN 11853-2 and/or DIN 11864-2 form A (BF).
• Threaded spigot according & to DIN 11853-1 (GS).
• Tri-Clamp according to DIN 11853-3 (BKS).

The valve finish of the stainless steel pinch valves (body in stainless steel 1.4408, flanges in stainless steel 1.4404) corresponds to Ra = 0.5 µm. Satin polished (brushed) pinch valves Ra 0.3 are also available on request.

The number of different connections allows for a wide range of use for the air operated pinch valves of series VMCE.

An additional advantage of pinch valves compared to conventional valves, such as butterfly valves or ball valves, lies in the almost wear-free and tight shut-off of the product stream.

Industrial sectors

Air operated pinch valves are suitable for isolating and regulating abrasive, corrosive and fibrous products. The pinch valve is being used more and more as an isolating valve or regulating valve for emulsions, sludges, dusts, gaseous materials, compressed air, powder, granulates, pellets, etc.

The company will demonstrate the benefits of using pinch valves at POWTECH 2014 (hall 4, booth 211).

Adapted from press release by Louise Fordham

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/product-news/17072014/ako_develops_new_air_operated_pinch_valves_62/