Dual Zone Steam Tunnel

PDC International Corporation has introduced a unique, multi-use steam tunnel.  The system, the KST 140-712 Dual Zone Steam Tunnel, was engineered specifically for packagers of food, beverages and personal care products who want 300 cpm capacity without the cost and complexity of multiple tunnels.  The robust, high-speed KST 140-712 tunnel accommodates the broadest range of containers, including those that have proven difficult to shrink consistently in traditional tunnels, and those that have required a second tunnel to complete the task.  The KST 140-712 is a dual-wall, dual-zone system providing over 1000” of live shrink area via five pairs of steam tubes in each of the two zones. Each row is externally adjustable for steam volume, flow and rotary position.  A proprietary nozzle positioner allows the highly focused application of steam to specific points on the package.  

Adjustments can be made “on the fly,” saving both utility costs and production time, since there is no need for cool-down or ramp up during adjustment. Steam regulation is critical to the high performance of the KST 140-712 and five features of the system work together to make sure it is both precise and predictable.  These features include special condensate traps, steam filtration, use of step-down regulators, a steam valve that is unique to PDC, and electronic regulation.  The Electronic Regulator developed by PDC monitors tunnel temperatures in real time, and automatically adjusts steam release to synchronize with the “thermal loads” of incoming product.  This is particularly valuable when the system is running full or cold containers.   A digital controller indicates the set temperature, actual temperature, and “percent open” for the main steam valve, and precisely controls the chamber temperature. Among the KST 140’s many important standard features are integrated chambers for steam venting, at both the infeed and tunnel discharge, which preclude the need for specialized add-on venting. The KST 140 is suitable for containers that are filled or empty, and virtually any shape, including round, oval, square or asymmetrical.  

PVC, PETG, OPS and PLA films, in gauges as thin as 30 micron, all shrink uniformly in the KST 140. The system mounts over existing conveyors, or PDC can supply conveyors appropriate for steam environments.  Optional features include integrated counters for filled packages that contain aerosols or other combustibles, tunnel lift stands, and devices for managing condensate and steam venting, as well as steam generators.  PDC offers a heated shroud that covers empty containers while inside the tunnel preventing condensate drip and minimizing moisture inside bottles, a condensate diverter package and culinary grade steam filter.  Steam venting options include a stainless manifold with dampers to meter steam exhaust, and a blower stand with VFD (variable frequency drive).