“We knew, given the complex requirements, that the best process control solutions could be achieved using Rockwell Automation technologies. Not only was Pat already familiar with Rockwell gear, but Rockwell Automation provides greater accessibility to support when out in the field, which is a crucial benefit to a business that spends its time in the countryside helping farmers,” said Van Klaveren.
New Technology Drives Performance Benefits
VK Logic designed a new mobile seed grader that utilized Rockwell Automation’s CompactLogix safety processor, PowerFlex 525 drive over Ethernet, PanelView, and PowerFlex 750 drive.
“Rockwell Automation had the best product offering and solutions to complement the new truck we were building, and the service is a valuable added benefit,” said Van Klaveren.
The unique design of the new mobile seed grader featured a range of innovative advances on previous designs, including:
· A conveyor belt with 3.6m telescopic function, so that Klean A Seed can transfer the treated seed directly into the customer’s silo. Further, the conveyor can then be adjusted, so that it can deposit seed into different silos within reach, without having to adjust the position of the truck
· Slide-out generator, for easy access and maintenance
· More electric motors, controlled via Rockwell Automation PLCs, which provides more control over the machine
· Flatbed type screens and rotary screens for grain processing
“VK Logic, a Rockwell Automation System Integrator Silver partner, has done an outstanding job of listening to customer needs, and developing the most efficient and user-friendly solution, one that will continue to deliver value year after year,” said Matthew Taylor, NSW account manager, Rockwell Automation.
Increased Capacity and Uptime
With the new truck now in operation, Cummins is experiencing a broad range of benefits in relation to capacity, user-friendliness, and maintenance.
“One of the major objectives of the project was to increase capacity. We nominated 32 tonnes per hour from the outset, and now that the truck is fully built, it is comfortably achieving 36 tonnes per hour, which is a great result,” added Van Klaveren.
Maintenance was another major consideration in the new truck’s design. To avoid contamination, and to provide quality assurance to customers, Klean A Seed needs to clean out the entire machine between customers.
VK Logic designed the truck so that the machinery tilts out, which makes access for cleaning significantly easier, thereby reducing downtime. “We estimate that a 30-minute cleaning task has now been reduced to 5 or 6 minutes each time. When you consider how many customers Pat is serving, that time saving really adds up,” said Van Klaveren.
“We are proud of this solution, and the ongoing benefits it will deliver to Klean A Seed. Rockwell Automation gave us the technology features, the flexibility, and the service to recommend a robust solution to our customer, so it was an ideal partnership,” he concluded.
