Clean valve guide in ice cream filling plant

Profile

What was needed: Replacement for O-rings to support and guide the piston in the filling valve
Requirements: Long service life, no external lubricants, no maintenance
Area of application: Fluid technology, packaging technology, food industry

Big Drum Engineering GmbH is a specialist and world market leader in the manufacture of systems for filling and packaging ice cream. It has been producing in Germany since 1984 and has built up a broad range of engineering expertise over the years, from mechanical engineering, automation and robotics to customised special solutions.

Problem

In the valve, which is used to fill ice cream with fruit pieces, O-rings were used to support and guide the piston, which quickly wore out and led to piston jamming. The developers were therefore looking for an alternative that was as lubrication-free and maintenance-free as it was durable.

Solution

The solution was found at igus®. The O-rings were replaced with a new special seal and iglidur® plain bearings, which serve as a support and guide ring for the piston. Free of external lubricants, the bushings are suitable for the food sector and easy to replace. Wear has been reduced to a minimum and there are no more piston jams.