Solenoid valves for fully automatic coffee machines: Easy installation and speedy maintenance

In close cooperation with leading manufacturers of fully automatic coffee machines, Bürkert has developed its new series of solenoid valves. From the outset, the new development focused on optimising the life cycle and serviceability of the fully automatic coffee machines as well as the valves themselves. It was important, therefore, that the insights of machine manufacturers around the installation, operation, and servicing were incorporated into the development of the new solenoid valves. That’s why, in addition to technical specifications, special attention was given to ensuring easy installation and safe maintenance during operation. The new valve series is set apart by its forward-thinking service concept.

Challenges for solenoid valves in fully automatic coffee machines

Easy maintenance and quick servicing of fully automatic coffee machines

Fully automatic coffee machines in coffee house chains operate 365 days a year, so, to ensure serviceability and availability of fully automatic coffee machines even in countries with varying levels of technical training, maintenance must be safe, simple, and tool-free. Machine downtimes mean reduced revenue.

The trend for ever more compact fully automatic coffee machines

There is also an increasing demand for ever smaller and more compact fully automatic coffee machines with expanded functionality. The solenoid valves used in these machines must also be smaller and be capable of higher performance.

High media compatibility and material resistance are required

Water is an all-important medium for any fully automatic machine, and can take the form of chlorine-containing tap water, aggressive osmosis water, or even calcareous or mineral-rich spring water. Moreover, the processes can involve temperatures up to 95 °C. Cleaning cycles are also a factor in the fully automatic coffee machine.

The compact and service-friendly solenoid valve series

Our new valve series is designed to handle switch-mode power supplies and rising ambient temperatures, while offering a selection of materials that comply with international food safety approvals. From effortless installation of the solenoid valves during machine manufacture to tool-free servicing, including magnetic core and diaphragm replacement – these are just some of the additional benefits of the series.

Bürkert has developed its Type 7015, 7016, and 7017 solenoid valves specifically for steam, water, hot water, coffee, and milk applications, perfectly tailored to the needs of compact fully automatic machines. The solenoid valves are compliant with EGV 1935-2004 and FDA requirements, and also come with NSF certification.

The new generation of solenoid valves for coffee machines

Type 7015 – 2/2-way: medium-contact plunger valve for coffee, steam, water and hot water Type 7016 – 3/2-way: medium-contact plunger valve for coffee, steam, water and hot water Type 7017 – 3/2 way: media-separated rocker valve for dairy products

The advantages of Bürkert solenoid valve solutions:

Opening and closing is easy thanks to tool-free components, which means that the valve range can be serviced quickly and cost-effectively.

Drei Ventilgrafiken, die das Öffnen und Schließen der Ventile darstellen

The replacement of the core after approx. 100,000 withdrawals can be done quickly and safely by the service department with a twist lock, thus ensuring a short downtime.

The fluid housing of the rocker valve type 7017 can be easily opened using the quick-release fastener. This makes it possible to inspect or replace the diaphragm. The well-known ski boot technology enables the armature to be securely closed after the service.

Darstellung von Ventil und die Funktionsweise des Schnellspannverschluss

With the two integrated cylinder bores and the quick-clip holders, the Bürkert solenoid valves can be installed more easily or removed easily and quickly in the event of maintenance.

The more space that the components save, the more compact the fully automatic coffee machine can be. With a volume saving of approx. 8% compared to conventional valves, Bürkert solenoid valves ensure optimal use of space. Thanks to the rocker design, the valve is also easy to clean. On request, the valves can also be offered as a flange variant for direct attachment to the customer’s fluid housing.

Schematische Darstellung eines Ventils mit 8% kleineren Abmessungen

For reasons of hygiene, the diaphragm in the valves that are used in milk applications must be replaced regularly. This is greatly simplified by the linking mechanism and has a particularly positive effect on the time account.

Grafische Darstellung des Membranwechsels eines Ventils

Thanks to the food-safe components made of PPS with low thermal conductivity, the temperature drop is counteracted. The steam temperature does not have to be set higher, thus saving valuable energy. The coffee temperature remains constant and the quality of the coffee is not affected.

Kaffeemaschine und Darstellung der Wärmeleitfähigkeit

λ Thermal conductivity

Save 10,000 hours by using Bürkert solenoid valves

The calculation example illustrates the added value that the new Bürkert solutions bring. It goes without saying that solenoid valves must be up to the job when it comes to the technical requirements. Extended maintenance intervals and shorter installation and service times are measurable advantages of the Type 7015, 7016 and 7017 Bürkert solenoid valves.

Conventional solution Bürkert solution

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Facing new challenges in developing your next generation of fully automatic coffee machines? We’re here to support you with innovative solutions for controlling water, hot water, steam, coffee, and milk. Contact us.