Global systems supplier, GEA Group, has introduced a new technical solution for decanter centrifuges – Varipond C. The system aims to consistent adjustment of the separation zone and pond depth for high product yield and quality, a key issue in the food and beverage industry.
Natural raw materials are subject to fluctuations in their composition, with factors like weather conditions or processing times affecting the water, oil and solids content. To ensure consistent separation results, the separation zone in the decanter must be continuously adjusted.
GEA’s Varipond C allows this to be done manually with a handwheel or automatically with a servomotor during operation to optimise pond depth and separation quality, without compromising on the yield and quality of the solid and liquid phases.
With Varipond C, the pond depth and separation zone can be precisely adjusted either manually to optimally adapt the separation process to different operating conditions.
At the same time, the system reduces energy consumption by about 30 per cent compared to conventional centripetal pumps due to lower friction effects. The food-grade design allows for full CIP cleaning of the Varipond chamber and the use of food-grade lubricants, seals and materials.
The system is available for all GEA decanters ranging from CF 3000 to CF 8000 and is suitable for both two-phase and three-phase processes, regardless of decanter size, where users need to respond to varying feed conditions, flow rates or different starting materials.
Varipond C can also be combined with a hydrohermetic sealing to prevent oxygen intake. This reduces product oxidation and improves quality, which is particularly beneficial in the beverage industry. The system has already been trialled in processing starch, animal fats, and proteins, as well as in the treatment of oil sludge and oily water from refineries.
GEA supplies food and beverage equipment to companies around Australia, with its main headquarters located near Melbourne Airport, Victoria.
