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INDUSTRIAL MIXERS FOR THE WINE INDUSTRY IN ATEX ENVIRONMENTS: combining mixing and safety

In the wine industry, a fusion of art and science where the quality of the final product depends on the precision of the production process, the optimisation and flexible use of portable agitators are becoming key elements in the performance of today's spirits production..

 

While complying with strict safety standards, the aim of an agitator is to guarantee optimum blending results in line with the precise needs of users, while providing effective solutions for all possible scenarios. This approach enhances the ease and flexibility with which agitators can be used, allowing wineries to benefit from both the quality of the end product and the safety essential in an environment where areas at risk of explosion are commonplace.
 

ATEX COMPLIANCE: AN ESSENTIAL PREREQUISITE

The production of strong alcohols involves the handling of flammable liquids, which can create potentially explosive environments. To meet these challenges, it is essential to incorporate portable mixers designed to operate safely in such conditions.

The European Union's ATEX (ATmospheres EXplosives) directive governs the use of equipment in environments where there is a risk of explosion. Industrial mixers for the wine industry must comply with this directive to minimise the risk of fire and explosion. This compliance is of paramount importance to ensure the safety of personnel, the installation and the quality of the product.
 

THE IMPACT OF ATEX SHAKERS ON "WINE" QUALITY

ATEX portable shakers bring considerable value to the wine industry, far beyond their crucial role in ensuring safety in potentially explosive environments. Their positive influence on the quality of the wine produced is indisputable. For example, in the manufacture of cognac, quality is the result of many factors, and the blending process is one of the most important.

These agitators ensure that the ingredients are mixed evenly and precisely, resulting in a uniform distribution of particles, yeasts, enzymes and chemical components in the must. This uniformity promotes more consistent fermentation, which in turn contributes to superior spirit quality.

Improved wine stability is another beneficial consequence of the uniform mixing provided by ATEX agitators. Throughout the production and ageing process, product stability is essential to ensure that the desired characteristics are retained.

In addition to stability, these stirrers contribute to aromatic complexity by encouraging the development of nuanced and complex aromas. Flavours are better integrated, creating a product richer in character and subtlety.

Fermentation control is another crucial aspect. Thanks to the regular and controlled mixing of musts and grape varieties, ATEX agitators enable winemakers to better control the process, avoiding undesirable tastes or variations in quality.

ATEX agitators also minimise product losses by ensuring complete homogeneity of the mixture. This means that each batch is used more optimally, reducing potential losses and maximising yield.

Consistent quality is another undeniable advantage. These mixers help maintain consistent quality from batch to batch, which is essential for customer satisfaction and brand reputation.

Finally, it's worth noting that ATEX portable agitators are designed to adapt to the specific needs of each type of blended spirit. This adaptability allows winemakers to tailor the blending process to their precise needs, enhancing their ability to produce exceptional quality spirits.
 

AGITEC MIXERS SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR MIXING ALCOHOL IN ATEX ENVIRONMENTS

In the wine industry, where the art of viticulture is combined with modern technology, the use of ATEX portable agitators is an intelligent step. With this in mind, the AGITEC range of agitators has been specially developed to equip tanks for mixing concentrated alcohols in ATEX environments, dedicated to homogenous maintenance for the wine industry. Their retractable shaft technology enables producers to fit the agitator to tanks full of product (Cognac, Whisky, Gin, etc.) by connecting it directly to the Macon spigot of the sampling or drain valve.

A semi-dynamic seal allows the agitator shaft to slide through its motorisation, ensuring that the liquid contained in the tank does not escape when the unit is set up. Once the agitator is in its operating position, a sophisticated mechanical seal takes over when the agitator starts to rotate. Its optimised weight, despite the ATEX rating (around 20kg), means that users can transport it manually without having to use any other means of lifting.

These new mixers are simple and easy to handle, in complete safety, and do not require any additional servo-control other than a low-level measurement in order to be used. What's more, thanks to ATEX certification, AGITEC mixers offer high-quality mixing while guaranteeing the safety of personnel and compliance with current regulations.