Reliable Powder Handling in Chocolate Production with Valves

Valves for Chocolate Powder

A leading UK-based manufacturer of premium bakery and confectionery ingredients, specialising in chocolate production, has relied on AKO UK pinch valves for over a decade within a critical stage of its powder handling process. The application involves the controlled transfer of powdered ingredients—flour, sugar, and cocoa—under demanding yet precise operating conditions.

Application Overview

The system operates at ambient temperature with a conveying pressure of 4 bar. Three AKO pinch valves are installed at floor level, positioned just before the flour pot in the final stage of powder transfer to the refiners. These valves play a crucial role in managing the flow of powders into a pressure vessel.

The process sequence is straightforward but critical:

• Valve Closed: During vessel filling, the pinch valve remains closed to prevent backflow and ensure the conveying line does not become blocked.
• Valve Open: Once the vessel is ready and pressure transfer begins, the valves for chocolate powder open to allow smooth powder flow into the refining stage.

Each valve operates approximately 40 cycles per day and is configured as normally open, closing via compressed air at 6 bar to seal the line when required.

Why Pinch Valves?

In powder handling applications—especially with materials like cocoa and sugar—traditional valve types can suffer from blockages, wear, and contamination risks. The AKO pinch valve design addresses these challenges directly:

• Full Bore Flow: With no internal obstructions, powders pass through without bridging or clogging.
• Gentle Handling: The soft rubber sleeve avoids damaging delicate materials and prevents product degradation.
• Dust-Tight Shut-Off: When closed, the sleeve provides a tight seal, essential for maintaining pressure and preventing leaks.
• Minimal Maintenance: Only the sleeve is a wearing part, simplifying upkeep.

Pinch Valve used within this application – VF080.02X.35.30LA

VF model, air operated, aluminium body, aluminium PN10/16 flanges with stainless steel bushings, natural rubber white food quality sleeve (FDA approved).

Performance & Maintenance

The pinch valves have proven highly reliable in continuous operation. The only routine maintenance required is the replacement of the rubber sleeve, which occurs approximately 1–2 times per year, depending on wear. This low maintenance frequency contributes to reduced downtime and operational efficiency.

Supporting components such as solenoids, pressure switches, and regulators are used alongside the valves to ensure precise control and integration into the wider system.

Long-Term Value

Having been in service for over 10 years, the valves have demonstrated exceptional durability and consistency. When asked about overall satisfaction, the site’s Engineering Manager described the product as:

This reflects one of the key advantages of pinch valves in such environments: once installed, they require minimal intervention while delivering reliable performance.

Key Benefits Realised

• Reliable pressure control for efficient powder transfer
• Reduced risk of blockages in conveying lines
• Low maintenance requirements with infrequent sleeve replacement
• Long service life in a demanding food production environment
• Clean and hygienic operation, suitable for food-grade applications

Conclusion

For this chocolate manufacturer, AKO UK pinch valves have become an integral part of a robust and efficient powder handling system. Their ability to deliver consistent performance with minimal maintenance has made them a dependable solution in a critical production process—proving that sometimes, the simplest design offers the greatest long-term value.