After extensive testing and development, Wenger has integrated three successful, existing process components together to create a new automatic density control (ADC) system for the control of wet bulk density during production of pet foods.
The Wenger ADC system incorporates a sampling and bulk density measuring device (Source Technology’s BDS) into a system that includes the Wenger back pressure valve (BPV) on the extruder barrel and Wenger’s integrated APM (automated process management) extrusion control system to automatically measure product density and adjust the process to maintain the desired density specifications.
In operation, the ADC system automatically retrieves a sample from the product flow stream at the inlet of the dryer, weighs the sample and calculates the density. The density value is relayed to the APM extruder control, which compares this value to the set point. Then, the APM automatically controls the back pressure valve closure as needed to maintain this targeted wet bulk density.
Wenger’s ADC can be installed as part of a new system or retrofitted into a system that already has one or more of the three basic components.
