Efficient monitoring and control of product bulk density has been a challenge and a cost issue for years. And even though bulk density measurement technology is typically in use, it has always required human intervention to adjust the process. In contrast, 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.
“The ADC system can also be programmed to take a sample as often as every 45 seconds, whereas an operator may check it every 10 to 15 minutes at best,” Rokey relates. “Plus, it frees production personnel for other tasks and decouples personnel from the product for greater food safety,” he adds, noting that the system includes a data recording aspect for validation of the process.

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.