One of the most important components in a head filling machine is the centralized and automatic hydraulic system. It is the heart of the machine and controls many actions such as:

  • Ground movements
  • The ascent and descent of the load unit
  • The cac-ing roller
  • The movement of the swivel conveyor belt and the casing soil disc
  • The filling unit movements forward and backward.

The duration and efficiency of the hydraulic system are primarily determined by the characteristics and conditions of the hydraulic oil; particularly important are the degree of cleanliness and temperature of the oil used in the hydraulic circuit. Therefore, particular attention must be paid to avoid oil pollution by external and internal substances, which is the main cause of wear and seizures.

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ALPIE technical solutions

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ALPIE installs as standard on SMART and PRO head filling machine for phase 3 a watertight cabinet to protect the lubrication system, both during cleaning operations and from the volatile particles of compost during filling operations of the cultivation rooms.

This precaution helps in particular to preserve the quality of the oil, reduce the consequent wear on the solenoid valves and preserve the pumps.

ALPIE designers have also developed and introduced additional solutions:

  • An anti-condensation filter is installed on the hydraulic unit to preserve the quality of the oil: when saturation is reached, the gel inside the filter changes color to indicate the need for replacement

  • There is a porthole to facilitate cleaning operations inside the tank, filter replacement and pump change

  • An alarm appears on the touch screen panel of the head filling machine to signal the need to change the oil every 2,000 hours of operation of the machine

  • For cold climates, ALPIE installs a heating system in the hydraulic system power unit: the oil is brought to the optimal temperature to allow fluid drives right from the start of the machine.

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The operator checks on the hydraulic system

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For the correct operation of the hydraulic system unit and the head filling machine, it is essential that the operator take particular precautions. It is important to carry out the following maintenance operations on a regular basis:

  • Keep the cabinet closed during cleaning and the operation of the head filling machine

  • Check the state of the oil at least 2/3 times a year: the presence of sludge and sediment in the oil signals the state of degradation of the oil. Oil replacement, which must be carried out on average every 2000/3000 hours; it must also be done together with an accurate cleaning of the tank and possibly by washing the system and checking the oil filters

  • Check the color of the anti-condensation filter: if yellow / orange, the filter is still active, if blue / green, it is necessary to replace the filter

  • Check the oil level through the appropriate visual level placed on one side of the tank; if necessary, topping up must be carried out whenever the level drops to a minimum and with the same oil used to fill the system

  • Carry out the external cleaning of the central unit: this allows easy localization of any oil leaks and immediate intervention. Cleaning must be carried out with care, removing dust and external and soiling substances

  • Clean the solenoid valves externally by disassembling the coils

Jerky hydraulic drives indicate the presence of damaged pumps and / or solenoid valves caused by degraded oil.

To prevent this from happening, it is essential to carry out the checks indicated above.

Find out here what the checks to be carried out for the correct maintenance of a head filling machine are.