Stuttgart, September 2026 – At Powtech 2026 (29. September – 1. October 2026, Nuremberg, Germany) Coperion will present two new developments at Booth 7-779 in Hall 7 that markedly optimize the conveying of bulk materials and component cleaning. The new, patented “AutoAccess” automated extraction system for rotary valves simplifies inspection, cleaning and maintenance handling, considerably reducing downtimes. In addition, Coperion will introduce the newly developed WFV diverter valve, an economical and hygienic solution for gravimetric distribution of bulk materials.
Along with these two new products, Coperion is showing the Coperion K-Tron T35-QC feeder, equipped with a vacuum receiver for automatic refill.
Automated rotor extraction increases process efficiency
With the automated AutoAccess rotary valve extraction system, Coperion presents an innovative solution that significantly speeds up inspection, cleaning and maintenance processes. Where the valve previously had to be opened manually — by removing the screws on the side cover and pulling out the rotor — handling is now markedly simplified by an automated process that is revolutionary for rotary valves. In under one minute, the new bayonet lock on the side cover of the rotary valve is mechanically unlatched using no tools and the rotor is then extracted linearly. The rotor and bayonet lock can then be moved to the side for better accessibility. This automation not only reduces effort and downtimes during inspections, cleaning, and maintenance, but also eliminates the need for a skilled technician to open and close the rotary valve. For clean-room applications, fewer personnel need to be involved. Moreover, risk of damage to the rotor due to improper manual handling is reduced. Process standardization and reproducibility are also possible for operators.
Coperion has not only optimized the rotary valve extraction system but has also redesigned the rotor coupling and bearing that are necessary for the rotor's extraction. Using the new coupling, the rotor can be moved into any angular position. The rotor no longer needs to be turned into a specific position in order to connect with the drive when inserting it into the housing. This quick, straightforward closing process further streamlines operations and increases machine availability.
The external bearing arrangement of the rotary valve, with its proven shaft seal, prevents conveyed material from entering the bearing assembly, thus heading off potential damage to the rotary valve. This results in significantly longer service life and higher operational safety, especially when using abrasive or dusty products. In the course of the redesign, the bearing was modified and strengthened, leaving the rotor free to turn on the side cover in the extracted position and thus making it even easier to clean the rotor blades and chambers.