Interlocking small diaphragm valves
For manufacturers in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical and personal care industries, locking off diaphragm sampling valves can be problematic.
Usually located in wash-down areas, these small valves commonly
control the flow of high purity water in closed loop systems. Because of the
valves’ small size, conventional stainless steel interlocks are usually too big
and heavy.
In a bid to solve this problem, Smith Flow Control, a specialist in
valve interlocking equipment, has developed a new interlock for use with
diaphragm valves in these and other hygiene-critical applications.
The new interlock uses a rotational Ellis lock
mechanism that is said to be suitable for this application due to its compact design. It has
an Acetal plastic body, which is lightweight and well suited for use with small
diaphragm valves. It is also resistant to moisture, solvents and many
other neutral chemicals. Despite this, it is designed to be tough, hardwearing and has a high
resistance to repeated impacts. The Ellis key has a spring-loaded rubber seal,
preventing water ingress during washdown or sterilisation procedures.
“Smith Flow Control is renowned for its heavy duty
mechanical interlocks for the oil and gas industries, but this new lock design
demonstrates our ability to provide interlocks for specialist applications,
such as small diaphragm locks,” commented Dan Kelly, the company’s North
American general manager.
