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The Kadant Blog

Enhancing Rendering Efficiency with Kadant Johnson Rotary Joints

An animal by-products processor based in Seville, Spain, recently upgraded its key process systems with Kadant Johnson rotary joints. The installation supports their commitment to improving equipment reliability, optimizing maintenance practices, and meeting performance demands in a regulated processing environment.

Meeting Demands in a Challenging Process

The processor converts animal by-products into high-protein flour, processed fats, and recovered water for use in pet food, aquaculture feed, and biofuel production. These sustainable applications contribute to circular economy initiatives and reduce CO₂ emissions through renewable-energy recovery.

Operating under high-temperature and pressure conditions requires components engineered for durability and backed by experienced technical support. After encountering reliability issues with previous rotary joint suppliers, the customer turned to Kadant Johnson rotary joints for its proven performance and responsive service.

Customized Engineering and Proven Results

Twelve Kadant Johnson rotary joints were installed across several systems, including digesters, feather dryers, and flour coolers. The  LJ® and SX® rotary joint models were selected based on ease of maintenance and high-temperature performance.

Kadant Johnson’s local service team worked closely with the customer’s team to ensure optimal results through:

  • Optimized Rotary Joint Sizing: Replacement of oversized rotary joints resolved corrosion and leakage issues while improving system reliability.
  • Mechanical and Safety Enhancements: Updated rotary joint assemblies and added safety stops improved overall equipment safety and stability.
  • Precision Alignment Support: Installation guidance from Kadant Johnson ensured correct alignment, minimizing wear and extending equipment life.
  • Stress Reduction Measures: Engineering recommendations, including the use of flexible connections and gasket clearance adjustments, reduced strain on rotating components.

Furthermore, Kadant Johnson’s ability to track each installed rotary joint, supported by detailed documentation, has streamlined ongoing procurement and reduced specification errors.

Find out more about our services.

 

1 Accumulation of debris on rotating joint during operation pre intervention situationAccumulation of debris on rotating joint during operation—pre-intervention situation

2 Micro leakage check on rotating union condition found before optimizationMicro-leakage check on rotating union — condition found before optimization

4 Pre realignment situation joint installation to be optimizedPre-realignment situation joint—installation to be optimized

5 rotary joint identified and inspected to ensure perfect operation 3Rotary joint identified and inspected to ensure perfect operation

  • Written by:
    Victor Caronni

    Victor Caronni

    Marketing Manager, Kadant Johnson Europe