Packaging

Wilden Packaging

• Can Wilden AODD pumps transfer shear-sensitive inks used in packaging applications?

  Wilden AODD pumps are designed for low-shear fluid transfer in printing and packaging applications. These AODD pumps are a great option to minimize shear damage to delicate inks, as they are shear sensitive and do not have tight clearances or the fast-moving pumping elements that cause excessive shear in other pump technologies.

• What Wilden AODD pump is best for pumping glue and starch-based adhesives?

  AODD pumps are ideal for glue and starch-based adhesives because they can handle high-viscosity fluids and minimize shear damage to delicate glues and adhesives, as they are shear sensitive and do not have tight clearances or fast-moving pumping elements that cause excessive shear in other pump technologies. Wilden AODD pumps also offer the Chem-Fuse™ Integral Piston Diaphragm (IPD) design, which encases the outer piston with diaphragm material. This dramatically reduces the potential for product buildup when pumping glue and starch-based adhesives.

• Can Wilden AODD pumps handle solids in packaging waste and adhesive byproducts?

  Wilden AODD pumps are ideal for solid-laden fluid transfer because they do not have tight clearances and can pass larger solids without damage. Wilden Brahma™ Series AODD Pumps take this further by utilizing a unique top-inlet, bottom-discharge orientation and flap valves, allowing large solids to pass and preventing damage from product entrapment and settling of solids in intermittent-duty applications.

• How can I control AODD pump flow in an automated packaging process?

  The discharge rate of an air-operated double-diaphragm (AODD) pump can be regulated by adjusting the volume and/or pressure of the air supplied to the pump. Air pressure is controlled using an air regulator, while a needle valve manages air volume.

  Alternatively, the pump's discharge rate can be adjusted remotely by throttling the discharge, which involves partially closing a valve in the pump's discharge line. This action increases friction loss, thus reducing the flow rate.

  A key safety feature of AODD pumps is their ability to "deadhead" without damage. The pump will stop when the fluid discharge pressure equals or exceeds the air supply pressure. In this condition, no bypass or pressure relief valve is necessary. To restart the pump after a deadhead, simply reduce the fluid discharge pressure or increase the air inlet pressure.

• How can Wilden AODD pumps prevent leaks when transferring solvent-based products?

  The bolted configuration of AODD pumps offers the highest level of product containment because it does not rely on a mechanical seal, and it ensures even pressure on the sealing faces. To prevent leaks during operation, ensure the outer piston is torqued to the required specifications, and monitor and replace diaphragms before they rupture. Selecting a Chem-Fuse™ Integral Piston Diaphragm (IPD) will also help prevent leaks, as the diaphragm material covers the outer piston and removes the possible leak path around it.