ThinkTop Basic
Alfa Laval ThinkTop Basic Valve Control Units
ThinkTop Basic USPs
Fully automated, modular control unit with ATEX options provides precise Valve regulation and real-time operational updates for enhanced productivity.
ThinkTop Basic Intrinsically Safe Benefits
- Available in Digital, AS-Interface and ATEX versions
- No-touch, set-and-forget sensor system with up to three solenoid Valves
- No manual adjustment of the feedback sensors is required
- Durable watertight design and low total cost of ownership
Communication
Interface Intrinsic: Intrinsic
Sensor Board
Feedback signal #1: De-energised Valve
Feedback signal #2: Energised Valve
Inductive Sensor
Switching element function: NAMUR NC
Nominal voltage: 8.2 V
Indication of the state: LED, yellow (Internally)
EMC in accordance with: EN 60947-5-6
Certificate of conformity: Gas: PTB01ATEX2191 Dust: BVS04ATEXE153
Solenoid Valve
Air supply: 150-700 kPa (1.5-7 bar)
Type of solenoids: 3/2-ways
Numbers of solenoids: 0-2
Manual hold override: Yes
Push-in fittings: Ø6 mm or 1/4″
Certificate of conformity: DEKRA 11ATEX0273 X
ThinkTop Basic Technical Data
Download the Full
Specification Sheet
Alfa Laval ThinkTop Basic Key Features
Tough and Effective Valve Automation
The ThinkTop Basic offers a reliable, automated solution for process safety with its no-touch, set-and-forget sensor system that accurately detects the condition and position of the Valve stem. Easily reprogrammable parameters provide flexibility, while the microchip sensor, moulded into the control head, ensures resistance to temperature, vibration, and pressure shock. No manual feedback sensor adjustments are needed, and tolerance bands guarantee dependable operation on any Alfa Laval air-operated Valve. Two PNP/NPN feedback signals, controlled by a jumper on the sensor board, provide basic indication functionality for Valve positions.
Sturdy and Durable
ATEX-Certified Valve Control
For use in potentially explosive environments, there’s ThinkTop Basic Intrinsically Safe (IS) equipped with ATEX-compliant solenoid Valves and feedback sensors. Durable, accurate and easy to install, ThinkTop Basic IS complies with the ATEX equipment Directive 94/9/EC, Group II, Categories 2 Gas and dust.
Retrofitting Boosts Performance
Upgrading older Valve Automation Systems with advanced Valve sensing and control technology can significantly lower investment, boost plant performance and cut operating costs. In many cases, the air-operated Valve remains the same; only the replacement of the control head interfaces is required. Should upgrading require control head replacement, ThinkTop Basic offers fast return on investment and long-term savings on operating and maintenance costs.
How the ThinkTop Basic Works
The sensor system detects Valve stem movement and Valve position at any given time, with an accuracy of ± 0.1mm, through microchip sensors. To locate current Valve position, chips in the sensor board calculate the Valve stem indication pin’s axial magnetic field angle.
The sensor receives signals from the PLC system to energise or de-energise the air-operated Valve, and then returns signals indicating main Valve position and condition. Up to three solenoid Valves convert sensor signals from electrical current into mechanical energy to energise or de-energise the air-operated Valve.
ThinkTop Basic Documents
Recent Success Story
Hygienic Alfa Laval plant upgrade boosts Russian dairy capacity by 50%
Moloko Dairy’s milk reception plant was upgraded with ThinkTop Valve sensing, Alfa Laval Unique SSV Valves, LKB Valves, and Control Units to increase production capabilities of whole milk, sour cream and yoghurt.
Extend the performance of your equipment
ThinkTop Basic
Servicing & Maintenance
The ThinkTop Basic is designed for use in general applications in the Dairy, Food, Beverage and Biopharm industries, among many others.
Related Industries
Designed for controlling Butterfly Valves in ATEX applications, the ThinkTop Basic ensures safe, efficient Valve operation in Pharmaceutical environments with stringent safety requirements.
The ThinkTop Basic is ideal for controlling Butterfly Valves in ATEX-rated Distilling applications, offering reliable, safe operation in explosive environments.
Whatever the application, with Alfa Laval Food processing equipment you can supply products at competitive prices – and the highest levels of hygiene and taste.
Enquire About the ThinkTop Basic
ThinkTop Basic FAQs
The ThinkTop Basic is a modular control unit designed for automated sensing and control of sanitary valves in industries such as dairy, food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals. It ensures optimal valve control and real-time monitoring of valve status.
The ThinkTop Basic is compatible with all Alfa Laval air-operated valves, including butterfly valves, single-seat valves, and mixproof valves. It fits directly onto these valves without the need for adapters.
The ThinkTop Basic supports Digital and AS-Interface communication interfaces, allowing seamless integration with most programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
Yes, there is an Intrinsically Safe (IS) version of the ThinkTop Basic designed for use in potentially explosive environments. This version complies with ATEX standards, ensuring safe operation in such conditions.
The ThinkTop Basic offers reliable valve sensing and control, a proven and inherently safe design, low total cost of ownership, a watertight and durable design, and ease of operation.
