Chocolate production

Chocolate – food of the gods

Chocolate production equipment consists of a system of vessels with agitators as well as a roller mill, a conche and a pouring machine. After leaving the conche and until it is further processed, the chocolate is stored at a temperature of approx. +45 °C in large containers holding up to 60 tons. An agitator ensures uniform consistency and temperature of the chocolate mass. The containers are heated via room heating.

Solid chocolate from the pouring machine

After the chocolate has passed through the conching processes, it is pumped into large containers or work vessels for further processing and temporarily stored. The storage temperature as well as the cooling down to the required +30 °C are decisive for the quality of the chocolate. Fed by two reservoirs, the machine pours five tons of chocolate per hour into pre-cooled forms.

VEGACAP 63 as overfill protection

VEGACAP 63 is used to provide reliable detection of the upper limit level in the large, closed containers. It is unaffected by buildup or the consistency and temperature of the liquid chocolate. Installation is straightforward and setup is as simple.

Continuous level measurement with VEGABAR 52

For continuous level measurement, a VEGABAR 52 pressure transmitter with ceramic measuring cell is mounted at the bottom of the container. The absolutely front flush ceramic diaphragm safeguards the sensor from damage through abrasion or gumming.

Level measurement in the vessels with VEGAPULS 61

Since cooling and stoppage lead to buildup and clumping of the chocolate, the chocolate mass must be transported and filled in a continuous process. A level-controlled flap guides the chocolate stream alternately into the one or other open reservoir. Continuous level measurement is carried out by two VEGAPULS 61 radar sensors. The noncontact measurement is immune to abrasion by the ingredients and buildup of the chocolate mass.

» VEGACAP 63

Version	fully insulated rod

Measuring range	up to 6 m

Process fitting	thread from G¾, ¾ NPT flanges from DN 50, 2"

Materials	316L, PE, PTFE

Process temperature	-50 … +200 °C

Process pressure	-1 … +64 bar (-100 … +6400 kPa)

» VEGABAR 52

Measuring cell	CERTEC

Measuring range	-1 … +72 bar

Permanent product temperature	-40 … +150 °C

Deviation in characteristics	0.2 %, 0.1 %, 0.075%

SIL qualification	up to SIL2

» VEGAPULS 61

Measuring range	up to 35 m

Process fitting	thread G1½, 1½ NPT mounting strap compression flanges from DN 80, 3"

Process temperature	-40 … +80 °C

Process pressure	-1 … +3 bar (-100 … +300 kPa)

Measuring precision	+/- 2 mm

SIL qualification	up to SIL2