A Legacy of Durability: Proven Performance with Delta Ducon's Extreme Rotary Valves

The mining and minerals processing industry is a proving ground for industrial equipment, demanding solutions that can endure the harshest conditions without faltering. When a major processor embarked on building a new Powder Processing facility, they faced a formidable challenge: handling diatomaceous earth (DE). This fine, powdery, and highly abrasive material required a material handling solution that was not merely robust but a strategic, long-term investment for operational efficiency.

The processor, with a history of successful projects with Delta Ducon, had already trusted the company to provide Extreme Rotary Valves and Pneumatic Conveying Systems for other parts of their operation. This pre-existing relationship and proven track record made the choice for their new facility a straightforward one.

Understanding the Abrasive Nature of Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a unique, naturally occurring mineral composed of the fossilized remains of tiny, aquatic organisms called diatoms. Its microscopic structure is sharp and jagged, making it an excellent filter medium, a mild abrasive in polishes, and a common insecticide. However, this same crystalline structure makes DE an aggressive opponent for industrial equipment. When handled by rotary valves, the particles act like a continuous sandblasting medium, rapidly eroding metal surfaces and leading to costly downtime and frequent maintenance.

The Delta Ducon Solution: Engineered for Extreme Conditions

Based on past successes and a deep understanding of the application, the client chose to install the Delta Ducon Extreme Rotary Valve in multiple areas of the new facility in 2018. This choice was based on the valve’s reputation and key features specifically engineered for severe-duty applications.

The secret to the Extreme Rotary Valve's longevity and performance lies in its patented design:

• Cast P-33 Abrasion-Resistant Alloy: Unlike valves that rely on a thin, surface-hardened coating, the Delta Ducon rotor and wear shoe are solid castings made of a specialized chrome, nickel-iron alloy (P-33). This proprietary alloy provides exceptional hardness (over 550 Brinell), ensuring that the material is durable throughout, not just on the surface. This through-hardened construction is critical for applications involving highly abrasive materials, as it ensures the valve maintains its integrity even after significant surface wear.

  
  

• Field-Adjustable & Replaceable Components: Designed for minimal downtime, the valve allows for quick and precise adjustment of the rotor-to-shoe clearance in the field, often without removing the valve from the system. This feature allows operators to maintain optimal performance and extend the valve's service life. If wear progresses beyond adjustment, the rotor and wear shoe can be replaced on-site, a critical feature that drastically reduces maintenance time and costs. This modular design means you can restore the valve to like-new condition without the expense of a full replacement, protecting your initial investment.

  
  

The Results: A Partnership Validated by Time

Seven years after their installation, the Delta Ducon Extreme Rotary Valves are still going strong. This remarkable performance validates the client's decision to entrust a new, critical facility to a trusted partner. The seamless integration and consistent, reliable operation have saved the processor from significant maintenance expenditures and production losses, reaffirming their confidence in Delta Ducon’s commitment to quality and durability.

This case study stands as a powerful testament to the value of investing in high-quality, purpose-built equipment and building a strong, lasting partnership with a trusted supplier. By choosing the Delta Ducon Extreme Rotary Valve, the client secured not just a piece of equipment but a long-term solution that delivers on its promise of unwavering performance and trust.

Learn More and Get in Touch

To discover more about our proven solutions for abrasive applications, visit our website and explore our full range of products. For a detailed discussion on how we can address your specific material handling challenges, please Contact Us.

Explore our other Pneumatic Conveying Systems and Rotary Valves to find the right solution for your operation.