Along with diaphragm pumps, Comet also presented its new range of Argo control units during the last Eima.
Let's find out, in this article, the main details and features that make up these fundamental components of high-pressure pumps dedicated to agriculture and spraying.
DISCOVER THE NEW COMET’S RANGE OF SPRAYING PUMPS
Pressure regulators
Pressure regulators, also called control units, are among the main components of diaphragm pumps, whatever function the pumps are used for. Thus, those dedicated to agriculture and spraying are no exception, where diaphragm pumps form the core element of a spray boom system and an orchard sprayer.
As positive-displacement pumps, diaphragm pumps require a pressure regulator with a by-pass on the delivery line performing a dual function:
- adjust the pressure and deliver the material at the desired pressure, so as to obtain the best result without damaging plants and soil;
- limit the generated pressure and keep it below the maximum pressure level allowed by the pump itself, to avoid any failure and damage.
A control unit substantially consists of:
- a master valve, for the main closure;
- an unloader valve (optional);
- a by-pass to return the excess flow to the tank;
- a valve or sectional taps, to distribute the flow to the various lines;
- a pressure gauge.
DISCOVER ALL COMET PRODUCTS FOR AGRICULTURE
How a control unit works
In the basic configuration of a control unit, the pumped liquid flows through an inlet and reaches the internal chamber, which is directly connected to the spraying lines. The pressure regulation system consists of a valve and its seat: through this seat, therefore, the liquid can flow out to the by-pass line.
A spring-knob system triggers to adjust the pressure, where a spring connected to the valve controls its action through a knob: thus, the diaphragm separates the liquid from the spring-knob system.
Specifically, when the pump draws water from a tank, the outgoing water passes through the control unit which precisely adjusts its outlet pressure. The pressure regulator has two water outlet ways to which as many hoses are connected, to which a set of nozzles is, in turn, connected in series.
Remote, standard and metered by-pass units
Going into more detail, pressure regulators differ both in composition and operation.
We have the classic on-pump control unit: this is the most basic system, mounted on the pump itself, so it requires the operators to be physically close to the pump to adjust the pressure they need.
Then there is the remote control unit, which is connected to the pump via rubber hoses to displace the regulator where it is most convenient for operators (usually on board a tractor), which is much more useful for operations requiring frequent pressure changes during work.
In addition, there is a difference between standard and metered by-pass control unit. In standard pressure regulators, when one of the outlets is closed, the pressure increases in the one left open.
On the other hand, in metered by-pass regulators, when one of the outlets is closed, the pressure remains constant in the one left open, offsetting pressure increases: unlike the former, the metering by-pass regulator is provided with a knob which adjusts the working pressure, precisely by keeping it always constant.
Finally, the materials making up pressure regulators have important distinguishing features: the most commonly used material for making control units is aluminum, but for heavier duties and the use of more aggressive solutions, brass is employed.
The Comet Argo control units
Comet's new range of pressure regulators is Argo, both standard and metered by-pass (ARGO-C) remote control units for high-pressure pumps from 30 bar and up (APS/IDS series pumps).
These are 2-way manual control units provided with a max. pressure regulator, particularly suitable for orchard sprayers.
All Argo units are available with the following features:
- Stainless steel linear pressure gauge 0 - 60 bar
- Without pressure gauge
- Isometric pressure gauge available on request
The control units in the Comet range are available in 4 versions:
ARGO
- Material: brass + nickel plated aluminium
- Regulator: 2 way – maximum pressure valve
ARGO C
- Material: brass + nickel plated aluminium
- Regulator: 2 way - maximum pressure valve – metered by-pass
ARGO HD
- Material: brass
- Regulator: 2 way - maximum pressure valve
ARGO HDC
- Material: brass
- Regulator: 2 way - maximum pressure valve – Metered by-pass
Their main features include:
- Flow rate of 180 l / 1'
- Maximum pressure: 50 bar
- C versions are equipped with metered by-pass to keep pressure constant when closing either section
- Contact parts:
- brass + nickel plated aluminium (ARGO - ARGO C)
- Entirely made of brass (ARGO HD - ARGO HDC)
