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[September 2001]
Villeroy & Boch Choose PCM Pumps for Ceramic Processing
Villeroy & Boch has worked with the French company PCM Pompes to replace pumps in two areas of application in one of its plants, covering transfer of ceramic slip and glaze.
Installed at the beginning of the process, PCM Moineau I Series progressive cavity pumps are used for the preparation of ceramic slip. PCM Delasco DL Series hose pumps are then used for transferring the mixture from one vat to another. These Delasco pumps, says PCM, when compared to air-operated diaphragm pumps guarantee easy pumping of heterogeneous and abrasive products - inherent characteristics of ceramic slip.
Next in the process, DL Series pumps are used for the transfer of slip to moulds. Finally, once a sufficient layer of deposit is obtained, the excess slip obtained during the moulding process is evacuated and recycled.
At the final phase of the this part of the manufacturing process, where glazing takes place, more DL Series pumps are used for transferring glaze material.
The Moineau I Series are said to offer a number of advantages, namely: constant non-pulsating flow to ensure uniform injection of slip; simple and robust construction which allows continuous running; valve-less running which, unlike with air-operated diaphragm pumps, eliminates the risk of blockages and clogging of the suction canal; and high pressure pumping capability - up to 15 bar - allowing the transfer and mix to take place over long distances.
The DL Series is said to offer abrasion resistance, reduced downtime and - because there is no mechanical sealing or packed gland - the elimination of air entrainment via seals in ceramic slip.
In this particular process, V&B ordered six DL Series hose pumps and a total of 18 Moineau I Series progressive cavity pumps.
ENDS