Facilitates a continuous process for cleaning
medical instruments
KDI helped develop a vacuum extraction system as part of an instrument cleaning line. The system continuously draws fluid through the instruments being cleaned and then transfers the fluid to a waste line.
The PLC controlled system alternates between two fluid holding tanks – filling one while the other is being drained.
The input fluids are drawn in via two input manifolds that are controlled by the PLC. As one tank fills with liquid, three level sensors monitor the liquid levels so that the PLC can switch to the empty tank before the partially full one fills. This allows for continuous processing without having to wait while switching between tanks.
Custom software provides fully automated control and visual process indications via a LED Red/ Green tower light and lighted push buttons.
Features of the Vacuum Extraction System
- The PLC and electronic controls are housed in a NEMA 4, stainless steel electrical enclosure
- The system is capable of filling the tanks at a rate of 8 gallons per minute
- The inlet manifolds have 16 x ¼” NPT connections
- The output has a single ½ NPT connection
- Two 316 stainless steel vacuum tanks (26” Hg)
- 3 position float switches indicate levels at empty, 12 gallons and 14 gallons
- Electrically driven PVC ball valves connect input manifolds to either tank
- Electrically driven PVC ball valves connect outlet drain port of either tank
- Stainless steel solenoid valve vents tank to atmosphere
- Stainless steel solenoid valve supplies vacuum to tank
- Anodized aluminum frame with casters
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