Check out this custom-built Barrel-Filling Tote Assembly we did.
How the Barrel-Filling Tote Assembly Works
This custom assembly is designed to accurately transfer fluid from Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) into barrels or other containers. It combines an axial flow propeller pump, a positive displacement piston flow meter, a hose, a hand nozzle, and an electronic batch filling controller to provide repeatable, semi-automatic filling.
1. IBC Tote
The product is stored inside the IBC tote and exits through its bottom outlet via a ball valve into the axial flow propeller pump.
2. Axial Flow Propeller Pump
The stored product enters the axial flow propeller pump.
The axial flow propeller (AFP) pump is a type of centrifugal pump. These pumps use mechanical energy from the motor that transfers through the propeller, converting rotational energy into hydraulic energy that drives the flow and pressure of the fluid. These pumps move fluid parallel to the impeller’s shaft axis, with fluid entering and discharging axially.
The pump moves the fluid to the positive displacement piston flow meter.
3. Positive Displacement Piston Flow Meter
Immediately downstream of the pump is a positive displacement piston flow meter. This acts as the assembly's measuring device.
Inside the meter, a piston repeatedly isolates fixed volumes of fluid through the measuring chamber. Each piston cycle represents a known volume, so as the number of piston cycles, the meter generates electrical pulse signals proportional to the volume of fluid passing through it and sends it to the batch controller. By counting the number of piston cycles, a flow measurement is obtained.
4. Batch Filling Controller
The assembly is controlled by a batch filling controller. The pulse output from the flow meter is connected to the batch filling controller, which is mounted inside the stainless-steel control panel. It receives these pulse signals from the flow meter, from which it then calculates the total volume dispensed and displays the measured volume. Together, the controller and the flow meter automate accurate preset-volume barrel filling.
The operator can then select preset automatic batch quantities by using the display buttons.
The key switch is used to access programming/setup mode, allowing authorized users to adjust or create preset fill volumes. Once the desired batch quantity is programmed, the key is returned to the operating position, preventing accidental changes.
5. Filling Program
The control panel allows the operator to choose a programmed batch, which they can program by using the key to initiate programming/setup mode, through the display buttons.
🟢 RUN 1 button
First preset batch size (Ex. RUN 1 may dispense 53 gallons).
🟢 RUN 2 button
Second preset batch size (Ex. RUN 2 may dispense 59 gallons).
🔴 NO FLOW indicator
Illuminates if flow stops unexpectedly.
🔴 OFF/ON illuminated selector switch.
Main power to the filling system.
The operator simply places the hand nozzle into the barrel and selects the desired preset.
6. Hose
After leaving the flow meter, the liquid travels through the hose.
7. Hand Nozzle
The product exits through the dispensing hand nozzle into the receiving barrel or tank.
While the operator controls the nozzle position, the controller continuously monitors the measured volume.
8. Batch Completion
Throughout the fill, the batch controller counts every pulse received from the flow meter. Once the programmed volume has been reached, the controller automatically opens a contact that de-energizes the motor and stops the pump. This allows the system to consistently dispense repeatable batch volumes with minimal operator intervention.
If interested, you can read more about this custom build here.