SPX FLOW Heat Exchangers
Automated APV FastFrame™ Plate Heat Exchanger by SPX FLOW
Automated APV FastFrame™ Plate Heat Exchanger by SPX FLOW
Order
Product Type: Plate Heat Exchangers
Fully Automated Plate Pack Access for Faster Maintenance and Higher Productivity
The Automated APV FastFrame™ Plate Heat Exchanger is designed to provide rapid and convenient access to the plate pack at the push of a button.
Its electrically powered, PLC-controlled frame automates the opening and closing process, helping production facilities reduce maintenance time, shorten equipment downtime and improve overall productivity.
Unlike traditional plate heat exchanger frames that require extensive manual handling, the Automated FastFrame allows operators to access the complete plate pack without removing loose tie bars or other frame components.
This makes the system especially suitable for hygienic production environments where frequent inspection, cleaning and maintenance are required.
Fully Automated PLC-Controlled Frame
The plate pack can be opened and closed using simple push-button controls.
The PLC-driven system coordinates the movement of the frame, providing consistent and synchronized operation while reducing the amount of manual work required during maintenance.
Electrically Powered Drive System
The frame uses an electric drive instead of a hydraulic system.
Eliminating hydraulic oil reduces routine maintenance requirements, prevents the risk of oil leakage and simplifies operation in hygienic production areas.
The electrical system also contains fewer moving components, helping improve reliability and extend equipment service life.
Redesigned Control Panel
The control system is positioned at the rear of the plate heat exchanger inside a sealed protective cabinet.
This arrangement helps protect electrical components against:
- water exposure during washdown;
- moisture;
- dust;
- temperature fluctuations;
- accidental mechanical damage.
The centralized layout also simplifies troubleshooting, inspection and servicing.
Improved Hygienic Top Bar
The upgraded top bar has a fully welded construction designed to reduce areas where product residues and contaminants can accumulate.
Its hygienic geometry supports effective external cleaning and sanitation while minimizing contamination risks.
Advanced Tie Bar Sealing System
Improved tie bar seals provide reliable protection and are easier to install and service than conventional sealing solutions.
Telescopic covers help preserve lubrication and protect the tie bar mechanism from external contamination.
Integrated Emergency Stop System
Emergency stop cables are installed along both sides of the heat exchanger.
This 360-degree safety system allows operators to stop the automated frame quickly from multiple positions around the machine.
Compact and Relocatable Frame Design
The support feet can be removed so the complete heat exchanger can be placed on transport dollies.
This allows the unit to pass through standard industrial doorways without dismantling the plate pack or disassembling the main frame.
Multi-Section Configuration
Several heat transfer duties can be combined within one frame.
Depending on the process requirements, the exchanger can perform:
- heating;
- cooling;
- heat regeneration;
- product recovery;
- multiple successive temperature treatment stages.
Upgradeable Platform
The manual FastFrame configuration can be upgraded to powered or fully automated operation.
This modular approach allows production facilities to expand the functionality of the heat exchanger as operational requirements change.
Certified Hygienic and Pressure Design
The Automated APV FastFrame™ is available in configurations that comply with recognized hygienic and pressure equipment requirements, including:
- ASME pressure design requirements;
- 3-A hygienic design principles;
- configurations supplied by an authorized 3-A Stamp Holder.
- Fully stainless steel frame construction
- Compatible with APV R5 and NR5 heat transfer plates
- Gasket materials available in Nitrile (NBR) and EPDM
- Heat transfer area up to 616.8 m²
- Maximum operating pressure up to 14.1 bar
- Maximum operating temperature up to 150°C
- Standard 100 mm (4″) process connections
- Available with Tri-Clamp, I-Line and ACME (bevel seat) connections
- Additional connection types available upon request
- 460 V three-phase electrical supply
- Machine supplied with electrical connector
- Total of 8 process connections:
- 4 connections on the fixed frame plate;
- 4 connections on the movable pressure plate.
Available Options
The Automated APV FastFrame™ Plate Heat Exchanger can be configured with optional features to meet specific production requirements:
- Plate pack protective cover (shroud)
- Protective safety grids
- Divider plates for multi-zone operation
- Customized plate configurations
- Alternative gasket materials
- Additional hygienic process connections
- Process-specific plate arrangements
Engineering and Service Support from Viravix
Viravix provides complete engineering and lifecycle support for APV Automated FastFrame™ Plate Heat Exchangers, from equipment selection to long-term maintenance.
Our services include:
- Selection of the optimal plate heat exchanger configuration
- Thermal and process engineering calculations
- Integration into new or existing production lines
- Installation supervision and commissioning
- Preventive maintenance programs
- Plate and gasket replacement
- Repair and refurbishment of plate heat exchangers
- Heat exchanger integrity testing
- Performance verification and diagnostics
- Supply of original spare parts