RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Managing pressure Apex valves are proud to manufacture Xtraflo valves as part of our extensive range at our Auckland manufacturing facility. The design has been optimised over years of development making them the preferred choice for high flow stock watering. There are some key features that are worth discussing on these valves. The operating principle The Xtraflo valve is diaphragm operated, meaning that it uses inlet water pressure to open and close the valve. The image to the right shows a valve in the closed position. The float has pulled the blue lever up, closing the pilot valve (small stainless spindle in the centre). This allows water pressure to pass behind the diaphragm, building up pressure to close the valve. A key difference between the patented Xtraflo valve and the competition is that our pilot is self-cleaning and most importantly, it only operates when the valve changes state (ie. opens or closes). Other valves have a pilot that runs continuously while the valve is open. This leads to blocked mechanisms as the pilot has to be a very small opening and can also cause competitor valves to open again if the line pressure increases. Advantages Standard trough valves close slowly. As the water level rises to the shut off point, the flow becomes just a dribble and finally closes. A lot of farms use pumped supplies and this means that the pump is working harder and longer to fill the last little bit of capacity in the trough. The Xtraflo valve is
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| SolidWorks cross section of XtraFlo valve.
either open or closed which means that troughs are filled much faster, saving time and if you are pumping, a significant amount of electricity. If you are dairying, the high flow rate for those thirsty cows and the fact that the valve is truly armless means it is much less prone to stock damage. The operating pressure The Xtraflo valve has been specifically designed to provide trouble free operation over a wide range of pressures (30 – 100 kPa). Effect on water quality The materials used should not taint or leach into the water. At Apex our valves are only manufactured from food grade materials. UV resistance Solar radiation in New Zealand is one of the most intense in the world and will destroy unprotected plastics. The Xtraflo valve parts contain UV stabilisers to prevent this issue and have a proven track record with decades of use in harsh sunlight.
Design At Apex we use an advanced 3D modelling package to ensure that we design accurately and consistently. During development we use various methods for prototyping including 3D printing and stereolithography. We also listen to input from customers and for instance have: • Changed the way the top entry kit is attached to the valve to make it easier to use. • Made the cord length adjustable from the top of the float so that you do not have to put your hands under water to adjust the water level on those cold days on farm. • Rationalised the 25mm and 20mm into one valve so that your purchase is more flexible on installation. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Apex
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