Liquid Handling
Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc. custom designs and manufactures the highest-quality liquid handling and dosing systems, such as tote and dispensing systems. Not all liquid dispensing systems feature tote containers; drums and barrels are also used. The liquid-handling tote and dispensing systems are used in various industries, including food production and other industrial applications.
Some liquid handling systems, known as “Mother Tote” systems or liquid dosing tote systems, discharge fluid from a portable or removable tote into a stationary tote that acts as a liquid surge tank. The same arrangement also exists in liquid dispensing systems using removable barrels or drums. The fluid is then metered from the stationary surge tote/tank into mixing bowls or other destinations.
Dispensing can be done by weight or volume, as required by the process. Sterling Systems & Controls can also provide process control and automation for the liquid tote and dispensing systems. Using Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs or desktop PCs with touchscreen displays running Sterling Systems & Controls customized Windows-based automation software, no two systems are alike. You get what you need and what you want.
Benefits:
- Automated dispensing controls.
- Less manual intervention & mess.
- Improved consistency of applying material.
- More accurate metering of liquids.
- Food grade applications.
- Dispensing system using spray bar improves disbursement of liquid material into mixing device.
- More uniform flow and product conveying of fluids due to the optional heated dispensing system.
- Reduce the cost of materials.
- Totes are most often reusable.
- Eliminate disposal of small containers (buckets, drums/barrels, jugs, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a liquid handling system?
A liquid handling system stores, meters, and dispenses liquid ingredients or additives into a process in a controlled, automated way, reducing manual intervention and improving repeatability.
What types of liquid handling systems does Sterling provide?
Sterling provides custom-engineered liquid dispensing systems including tote-based dispensing, automated metering, spray bar distribution, and optional heated dispensing to support uniform flow and process integration.
How do liquid handling systems ensure accurate dosing?
Systems are engineered with metering controls and sensors that measure liquid flow against targets, improving consistency and reducing waste. Spray bar distribution and temperature control options can further improve flow and uniform application.
When is heated dispensing used in liquid handling?
Heated dispensing is used when maintaining temperature improves liquid flow characteristics, reduces viscosity-related issues, and ensures consistent delivery, especially for temperature-sensitive fluids.
Can liquid handling systems integrate with plant automation and batching controls?
Yes. Sterling’s liquid handling systems can be integrated with batching, weighing, and plant controls so that dispensing events, targets, alarms, and statuses are visible within the broader automation strategy.