PLC for Food

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What are PLC-controlled spraying guns?
• Differences between remote and manual adjustment
• Advantages of remotely controlled spraying guns in the food sector
• AIRCOM spraying guns for remote control
• Conclusions

Introduction

Spraying is a fundamental process in various industries, especially in the food sector, where precision and efficiency are crucial. PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) controlled spraying guns represent an advanced solution that optimizes operations. This article explores what these guns are, how they differ from manually adjusted ones, and the advantages they offer, with a focus on AIRCOM guns.

What are PLC-controlled spraying guns?

PLC-controlled spraying guns are devices designed to apply liquids (such as oils, release agents, or other food-grade fluids) with precision and automation. The regulation is managed by a PLC, allowing real-time monitoring and control of parameters like flow opening and spray width. This technology integrates seamlessly into automated production systems, improving consistency and reducing human error.

Differences between remote and manual adjustment

Manually adjusted spraying guns require direct intervention from an operator to modify the spray parameters mentioned above.

On the other hand, PLC-controlled guns allow these parameters to be adjusted remotely via a digital interface. This means that settings can be quickly and precisely modified without interrupting the production process.

Advantages of remotely controlled spraying guns in the food sector

• Spray pattern versatility
• Waste reduction: Optimized flow width management and its opening and closing reduce raw material consumption.
• Improved hygiene: The absence of manual intervention minimizes contamination risks.
• Adaptability: Parameters can be adjusted based on the product or recipe with minimal production downtime.
• Real-time monitoring: PLC connectivity allows for data collection, useful for future analysis and optimizations.

AIRCOM spraying guns for remote control

AIRCOM offers a range of spraying guns designed for seamless integration with PLC systems, ideal for the food sector and beyond. Among the most advanced models are:

• AIRCOM ECO-A-X: An HVLP gun with internal product passages entirely made of stainless steel, featuring an optional cleaning circuit to flush the gun between work cycles.
• AIRCOM FF-A and FF-SE-A: An HVLP gun made entirely of stainless steel, compliant with FDA regulations (the two versions offer the option for high work cycles with the FF-A model).
• AIRCOM FF-Q-A and FF-Q-SE-A: An HVLP gun made entirely of stainless steel, compliant with FDA regulations, designed to integrate with the QRB2 quick-release block, allowing the gun to be attached and detached from the system with a simple hand movement.

These guns can be equipped with nozzles of different diameters and, in the case of the FF series guns, also with heating systems for viscous fluids.

Conclusions

PLC-integrated spraying systems represent a technologically advanced solution to optimize production processes in the food sector. To meet these remote control needs, AIRCOM has introduced specific gun models in its catalog that, compared to manual models, offer greater precision, efficiency, and safety. AIRCOM, with its range of advanced spraying guns, positions itself as a leader in providing tailored solutions for various market needs.

Investing in this technology means improving product quality, reducing costs, and optimizing productivity.