Before glass bottles are filled with a beverage, they undergo a thorough cleaning process to ensure they are free from contaminants.
This process involves multiple stages, starting with the bottles being fed into the system and filled with caustic water in the basin of the washing facility. This initial stage removes all coarse dirt and contamination. Subsequently, water at varying temperatures is sprayed into the bottles via high-pressure nozzles to eliminate any remaining dirt and caustic solution. To maintain optimal operation, precise pressure and level measurements are critical. The level in the basin is hydrostatically monitored, and the pressure in the supply line to the basin and in the water pipeline to the rinsing nozzles is measured.
During this process, various sets of data are needed, including pressure and point level measurement tasks at the basin and pipeline. Here, special challenges include limited space and the need for an instrument that provides accurate readings despite process temperature and is lye-resistant.
In challenging and complex process conditions, VEGA instrumentation excels. The VEGABAR 28 is a versatile pressure transmitter with a ceramic measuring cell suitable for measuring gases, vapours, and liquids up to 130 °C. It includes hygienic connections, a universal connection for hygiene adapters, and easy integration into control systems through IO-Link communication. The VEGABAR 38, another universal pressure transmitter, offers an on-site display and 3-button operation, high plant availability, and similar integration capabilities.
Also, the VEGAPOINT 21 is a compact capacitive limit switch for detecting water-based liquids, with a low-cost design, small installation dimensions, and easy integration into control systems. Installing VEGA products in the bottle cleaning process is designed to be simple and efficient, minimising downtime and ensuring seamless integration into existing systems.
The VEGABAR 28, VEGABAR 38 and VEGAPOINT 21 can be installed using threaded connections (from ½”) or hygienic connections. The universal connection G1″ for hygiene adapters simplifies the installation process, and the small installation dimensions make it perfect for confined spaces. VEGA instrumentation offers convenient wireless setup and diagnostics features for configuring the sensors using a smartphone, allowing for quick and easy adjustments without the need for physical access to the sensors. The sensors are equipped with a coloured 360° status display for monitoring their operational status at a glance, providing real-time feedback on the sensor’s condition and ensuring prompt detection of any issues.
The use of these VEGA ensures precise pressure and level measurements in the bottle cleaning process, providing reliable performance even in challenging conditions such as limited space and exposure to caustic solutions. Their easy integration into control systems and hygienic design makes them ideal for maintaining high standards in the beverage industry. With VEGABAR 28, VEGABAR 38, and VEGAPOINT 21, beverage manufacturers can achieve reliable and efficient cleaning processes, ensuring high standards of hygiene and safety.