AccuBrine^® automated brine maker FAQs

What is the production rate of the AccuBrine^® automated brine maker system? 

The AccuBrine^® automated brine maker can continuously produce 200 gallons per minute or 6,000 gallons of brine per hour.

How does the system measure the concentration of the brine? 

The AccuBrine^® automated brine maker uses a patented process utilizing a conductivity analyzer to measure the brine concentration. The system measures the ions present in the brine and converts that to a concentration reading. The higher the salt concentration, the more ions are present, the higher the reading on the controller. This is a very precise measurement of concentration. The AccuBrine^® automated brine maker system guarantees a concentration of plus or minus 0.1% finished product concentration. 

Why is the unit built out of fiberglass? 

Marine-grade fiberglass provides several advantages over traditional materials, in that it is durable and not adversely effected by salt brine solutions. Steel will corrode in the presence of moisture and salt. Even stainless steel will corrode over time, particularly at the welded joints. Fiberglass is also a cost-effective solution given the increasing costs of stainless steel and the re-enforcing required to keeping a steel tank together. Fiberglass is also a better choice for the AccuBrine^® system when compared to plastic, as it can be up to four times stronger. The end result is a durable, cost-effective device. 

How many people does it take to operate the brine maker? 

Because the brine maker is fully automatic, one operator filling the brine maker with salt can operate the unit. One operator can simply turn the system “ON” and the unit will produce the desired concentration and amount of brine desired. 

What happens if something goes wrong with the system during operation? 

There are various sensors and actuated valves in the system. The sensors are constantly being monitored and actuated valves are being checked for correct positioning. In the event that a device is not operating correctly, the brine maker shuts itself down and tells the operator what is wrong and the needed corrective action for maintenance. 

Why are there manual valves on the brine maker? 

These valves are manual overrides that allow brine production in the unlikely event of an actuated valve failure. 

Can the system be shared with other public works departments or Departments of Transportation? 

Yes. The AccuBrine^® automated brine maker was designed to keep track of batches for you. At the end of the month or week or day, you can generate a report showing how much a particular organization has used. 

What is the warranty available for this equipment? 

There is a one-year parts and service warranty in the first year on the system and a parts-only warranty in the second year. 

What training is available if I purchase this equipment? 

Upon purchase and installation of the unit, Cargill representatives will provide basic operation training. Each unit also comes with a detailed operations manual for reference. Additional training can be provided upon request from the customer. 

Will brine left in the unit freeze during winter months? 

Brine will freeze depending on the concentration and the ambient temperature. For example, a 23.3% brine solution will freeze at -6° F. To help prevent this, the AccuBrine^® automated brine maker has a winterization mode that will allow for the system to re-calculate the product for a set period of time. There are also options that can be purchased to help further defend against freezing product such as tank heaters and roll-trap covers. 

What can I expect from the installation process once I buy the equipment? 

Cargill representatives will meet with you and help you understand the pre-installation requirements. Cargill representatives will also be on-site to help your team install the unit. We believe its important for the customer to install the unit so ownership becomes the customer’s and the customer fully understands how the equipment operates. 

Who do I call if there is a problem or malfunction with the equipment? 

A phone number of your maintenance contact is included inside the control panel of each unit. 

Why is the AccuBrine^® automated brine maker more expensive than other systems available for making brine? 

The AccuBrine^® system is a higher price than other brine makers but not necessarily higher cost. The automation in the AccuBrine^® system is unparalleled by any other equipment on the market. By reducing the amount of oversight required to produce brine and increasing the safety of the operators involved, your organization will be able to focus those resources on other tasks, thus lowering your overall costs more. 

Can the AccuBrine^® system make “hot brines” by mixing in other liquid deicing chemicals such as calcium chloride or magnesium chloride? 

Yes. It easily connects to the AccuBrine^® blend truck loading & blending system. Capable of mixing multiple additives with your brine, this addition gives you the freedom to create various different recipes ensuring you are ready for whatever mother nature throws your way.

How do I clean out insoluble material from the brine maker? 

The AccuBrine^® automated brine maker was designed with making cleanout easy in mind. The automated cleanout function allows for you to clean out the insoluble material in a safe, easy way. Simply turn on the cleanout function to activate the sprayer bars, open the discharge valve and flush the material into your loader bucket. The system even tracks the expected insoluble levels in your system and advises when cleanout is needed. 

Contact us with any additional questions about the AccuBrine^® automated brine maker.