BST February 2017

BULK MATERIALS BULK MATERIALS HANDLING HANDLING • POWDER • CONVEYING HANDLING • QUARRYING • DUST CONTROL • RECYCLING • POWDER & WASTE HANDLING MANAGEMENT

FEBRUARY 2017

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New Truck Widens Range of Doosan Machines at Quarry HIGHLIGHTS:

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Handling innovations at Logimat 2017

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New Varicone FIBC Discharger

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Pet Food Snacks

The Smart Way to Unload, Convey, Weigh & Mix ®

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BLENDCON SILO BLENDER

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DYNA-SLIDE HIGH PRECISION AIR-ACTIVATED FEEDER

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Issue 118

CONTENTS 4

NEWS

16 BULK MATERIALS HANDLING 27 CONVEYING BST TEAM

31 POWDER HANDLING

Sales Director: James Scrivens Production: Sarah Daviner Accounts Manager: Katie Brehm Office Manager: Susan Daley

32 DUST CONTROL &

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ISSN: 1365/7119 All contents © Abbey Publishing Ltd 2017

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COMPANY NEWS

TEREX® WASHING SYSTEMS MARKS SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY OF KEY UK DISTRIBUTOR - DUO PLC.

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ne of TEREX® Washing Systems key distributors in the UK is celebrating a special anniversary, with 35 years in the aggregate processing industry.

Alex Moss – MD, of Coventry based DUO (Europe) Plc has a history that dates to 1981 when Powerscreen Washing Systems, an independent dealer in England and Wales for Powerscreen® aggregate washing equipment, was founded.

After establishing itself as a successful Powerscreen dealer, Powerscreen Washing Systems rebranded in 2005 as DUO (Europe) Plc and now comprises of three main business areas; equipment sales, contract processing, and manufacturing. Supporting equipment sales, DUO also offer pre-used equipment and a comprehensive parts & service package.

The manufacturing element of DUO was added through the acquisition of the LJH Group in 2004.

Established in 1964, Somerset based LJH Group was originally a family-owned specialist engineering company which today offers a complete package; from initial design, manufacture, installation and full project support to the Bulk Handling Industries.

A COMPREHENSIVE PORTFOLIO: From its origins as a Powerscreen dealer, DUO has become a distributor for several market leading European and USA equipment manufacturers.

This blend of experience 4

Bulk Solids Today

and brand portfolio, together with the philosophy of DUO – ‘the customer comes first’ makes them an important player within the industries they serve.

Today, DUO (Europe) Plc is a market leading company that provides the Aggregate, Recycling and Material Handling Industries with a comprehensive package of complete processing solutions, including specific industrial applications for the Quarrying, Recycling, Bulk Handling Industries and Transport Infrastructure.

OVERSEAS SUCCESS: In a recent discussion at Hillhead, Alex looked back on his many years in the business and how the DUO brand has expanded beyond the shores of the UK into Trinidad and Tobago and most recently Africa.

Alex, commented, “When the world stopped turning back in 2009 we looked at other opportunities in countries such as Kenya and Ghana, which with our knowledge of equipment

and applications soon landed us considerable business. This year marks our tenth year in Africa, a region in which we have successfully sold significant numbers of equipment from our product portfolio.”

The DUO business is built around three TEREX® brands – TEREX® Washing Systems, TEREX® Minerals Processing Systems and Powerscreen.

The modular range has proved very successful in the UK market with numerous installations for blue chip companies such as CEMEX, Hanson, CRH and Lafarge.

Alex, continued, “The recycling market in the UK is also hugely important to us – we have numerous installations working very hard for N.R.S, Rob Collard, Walsh and numerous others.

Our in-house contracting division – DMP (DUO Minerals Processing) provides equipment on a cost per ton/ basis, which is appealing to companies in terms of cash flow, manpower and on-site industry expertise.”

Recently this division achieved a landmark in processing on the Aberdeen by-pass. Operating in six locations along the 58 kilometres of the bypass, a fleet of TEREX® Powerscreen Crushing & Screening equipment has processed 4 million tonnes of granite since the operation commenced in June 2015.

MOTORSPORT SPONSORSHIP: Away from the aggregates business Alex has another passion – Motorsport, where DUO sponsor several drivers.

DUO consistently figure prominently in the British Touring Car Championship and jointly sponsor a BMW WSR car with leading Hampshire recycling company – R. Collard and Motorbase Performance. This sponsored combination recently had sporting success with driver Mat Jackson finishing a commendable 3rd in a fiercely competitive British Touring Car Championship in 2016. Tel: 0845 22 22 386 Email: office@duoplc.com

COMPANY NEWS

J D NEUHAUS TO SHOWCASE HANDLING INNOVATIONS AT LOGIMAT 2017 J D Neuhaus (JDN) will use the forthcoming LogiMAT exhibition (Stuttgart, Germany 14-16 March) to present visitors with examples from their extensive range of materials handling equipment. Among the highlights on stand 9C51 in Hall 9 will be a light crane system, being shown for the first time, along with a Mini 250 hoist. A team of JDN experts will be on hand to discuss any specific questions from visitors regarding their materials handling requirements.

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hether in a foundry, during liqueur production, or in the automotive or chemical industries, hoists, cranes and conveying system solutions from J D Neuhaus literally bear the load for all applications.

With both pneumatic and hydraulic series lifting equipment together with crane systems, JDN covers a large number of tasks.

Moreover, J D Neuhaus offers system solutions for many branches of craft as well as industry. JDN places particular importance on the total cost of ownership (TCO), with JDN hoists and system solutions providing optimal versatility, lowest life cycle costs, shortest possible service times and maximum safety at the highest possible levels of efficiency.

Their versatility is evident both in the standard series product range with comprehensive accessories, and in the special solutions designed specifically for the widest range of applications.

Products with nickel-plated surfaces, for example, are available for the foodstuffs and drinks industries.

Specialised hoists for use at temperatures down to minus 45°C or at water depths to 100 metres below sea level are also available.

As the only manufacturer worldwide, J D Neuhaus supplies pneumatic hoists 6

Bulk Solids Today

which can be swivelled through 30 degrees at both sides in the direction of travel as well as directly in the line of travel. Also available are hoists with a carrying capacity of 25 tonnes that conform to a minimal headroom of only 470mm. Radio remote controls are also available for operating the products that are suitable for use in explosion-hazardous areas.

A low maintenance requirement is the main contributing factor towards lowest life cycle costs of JDN products. The shortest possible service times also ensure a minimum of downtime while the “air consumption per metre lift” parameters illustrate how efficiently these pneumatic products operate. With regard to safety, JDN has, in response to country and industry-specific

requirements, developed an additional anti-drop device for the Mini series air hoists, which is the subject of a patent application.

In addition to the standard crane range, custom cranes are a speciality, whether for use on drilling rigs or for the performance of conveying tasks below deck. The extremely low headroom of these “underdeck cranes” is also exploited in industries where seagoing vessels have minimal room heights available. On cranes of this type, the load can be raised almost to the bottom edge of the girder on which the hoist travels.

Light crane systems with pneumatic hoists are also new additions to the JDN product range. These provide individual solutions for almost any workshop and impress with their great robustness, smooth running and easy handling.

JDN Service completes the range of offerings, from installation and commissioning of a system through to maintenance and

general overhaul.

To ensure optimal parts supply, the JDN team has also created spare-part and general-overhaul kits that make it significantly easier for customers to order spare parts.

Training courses round off the JDN service offerings and the JDN Service is complemented by project and engineering facilities, which include the entire project management for client systems.

If you would like to find out more about the

COMPANY NEWS products and services from J D Neuhaus, visit them in Hall 9, stand 9C51 at LogiMAT 2017. The JDN team would be pleased to provide you with information. and capacities of COMPANY INFORMATION up to 115 tonnes.

At its Witten plant, For example, in oil and J D Neuhaus GmbH & Co. gas exploration in arctic produces pneumatically and temperatures as low as -45°C; hydraulically-operated hoists the undertaking of under and crane systems with over water repairs on ships; as well 200 employees across the as in mining and the chemical group. Thanks to this globally industry, together with heavy unique specialisation, J D plant construction and in Neuhaus have not only set many areas of logistics. J D the quality standard, but Neuhaus supplies around 70 are also the world market branches in total worldwide. leader with customers in more Production takes place than 90 countries around exclusively at their Witten the globe. The products plant.

The broad range of particularly set themselves services provided includes apart in their resilient and equipment assembly, reliable operation, thanks inspection, maintenance, and to their protection against general overhaul, as well as explosions even in the most running courses1for customers.09:45 extreme operating conditions Filling and weighing (2016) Ad (134x178)_Layout 19/08/2016

For distribution, JDN companies in France, Great Britain, Singapore and the USA have created a tight-knit global network, and in collaboration with international partners, have supported an export rate of over 80%.

The founding of the company goes back to the year 1745, and it is now in its seventh generation of being family-run. At the HebezeugPage 1 (Hoist Museum) in Museum

Witten, one can see the history of this company as a living part of the business culture.

Further information is available on request to: J D Neuhaus, Unit 6 Kirkton Avenue, Pitmedden Road Industrial Estate, Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 0BF Tel: 01224 722751 Email: info@jdneuhaus.co.uk www.jdngroup.com

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7

COMPANY NEWS

NEW AWARDS TO RECOGNISE THE STARS OF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT IN UK LOGISTICS

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new and unique annual awards event “Talent in Logistics” dedicated solely to recognising and celebrating professionals in training, learning and development in transport, warehousing and logistics has officially launched. Taking place on 22nd June 2017 in Telford, West Midlands, the Talent in Logistics Awards will reward individuals, who are often overlooked by other

to visibly demonstrate their commitment to quality training to existing and potential employees, as well as their industry peers. Recognising the exceptional work of staff with this well-regarded award will also help companies to support recruitment and encourage employee retention whilst improving team morale.

There are 18 Talent in Logistics Award categories, which are: • Training/Learning and Development Manager

accolades in the industry, despite being key to the current and future success of logistics in UK and Ireland.

With 2.2 million people in the UK working in transport, warehousing and logistics, and thousands more needed to support the growth of the sector, providing professional development and staff recognition has never been more important.

It is vital that organisations address skills, training and career progression to retain exceptional staff, and attract new employees.

The Talent in Logistics Awards 2017 recognise and celebrate the skills and hard work of the people in the logistics industry.

From trainers and Learning and Development (L&D) Managers, to LGV drivers and apprentices, HR Managers to Logistics Managers, these unique awards will reward the people that keep the country moving.

They are the only accolades completely dedicated to the people that work hard to make the logistics, transport and warehousing sectors a success.

It is free to enter the awards online and winning will enable organisations

of the Year • Training Programme of the Year • Training Team of the Year • Health and Safety Manager of the Year • Health and Safety Trainer of the Year • Transport Manager of the Year • LGV Instructor of the Year – sponsored by National Register of LGV Instructors • Driver CPC Instructor of the Year • Driver CPC Training Provider of the Year • LGV Driver Training Provider of the Year • LGV Driver of the Year • Materials Handling Equipment Training Provider of the Year • Warehouse Manager of the Year • Warehouse Operative of the Year • Apprentice of the Year • Lift Truck Instructor of the Year • International Forklift Operator of the Year – sponsored by UniCarriers • Lifetime Contribution to Training and Development in Logistics

Bulk Solids Today

The winners of the inaugural Talent in Logistics Awards will be announced during a celebratory dinner at the Telford International Centre, on the evening of the 22nd June 2017. As well as a deluxe three course dinner and entertainment, the event will also offer learning and development professionals a unique opportunity to socialise and network with their peers.

Entry is free and organisations and individuals may enter more than one category. The online entry process opens on Monday 6th February 2017 and the deadline for entries is 31st March 2017. To see the entry criteria or enter the Talent in Logistics Awards, visit: www.talentinlogistics. co.uk/enter-awards To attend the Talent in Logistics Awards, contact talentinlogistics@capitb.co.uk to purchase individual tickets or a table.

Promotional opportunities exist for organisations that wish to sponsor an award.

For more information contact talentinlogistics@captib.co.uk or call +44(0) 1903 204187.

Prior to the Awards on 22nd June, the new Talent in Logistics Conference will also take place in Telford. The free daytime conference offers seminar sessions focused on the key issues facing learning and development professionals in UK logistics. Attending will help managers to improve skills and develop people effectively in their business.

It also provides a relevant professional development opportunity, while helping businesses ensure that they can procure and deliver the right training and meet their business objectives. Live forklift competitions will also take place during the day.

To register for a free place at the Talent in Logistics Conference, visit http://www. talentinlogistics.co.uk/booknow. Places are limited.

Visit www. talentinlogistics.co.uk for any other information.

COMPANY NEWS

GOLDHOFER SETTING NEW STANDARDS AT CONEXPO system include efficient vehicle mobilization and fast and easy reduction of the overall weight, for example when bridges have to be crossed.

In such cases the tractor is simply disconnected and ADDRIVE switched to the self-propelled mode. That avoids the need to unload the cargo onto a separate selfpropelled module. In addition to solving problems with weight limits on bridges, this solution is equally applicable to tricky situations involving tight bends, serpentine roads and roundabouts.

they are operated as towed modules or as self-propelled modular transporters. That obviously means greater efficiency in terms of fleet management, since ADDRIVE offers greater flexibility and improved economics.

The attractions of the

Goldhofer’s engineers have designed the ADDRIVE with a free-wheeling mode: As soon as a certain speed has been reached, the system disconnects automatically from the drive and functions as a normal heavy-duty module for towing at speeds

of up to 80 km/h. With the drive axle uncoupled from the motor, there is no more oil flow. That means there can be no overheating of the drive, and – with the related sources of wear and resistance

to have a second tractor in attendance. And it is especially safe: ADDRIVE is the world’s first heavy-duty module to have a particularly quick-acting electronic braking system (EBS).

eliminated – it significantly reduces maintenance.

Another big advantage: If a hill climb calls for a short-term increase in available power, ADDRIVE is simply reactivated by pressing a button. In some cases that avoids the need

At Conexpo, Goldhofer will also be showing its THP/ DC Dual Lane solution, which has now reached the production stage.

It is designed to permit the deck to be widened hydraulically while under load. www.goldhofer.de

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COMPONENTS FOR BULK SOLIDS HANDLING

A

t Conexpo stand G-4416, Goldhofer will be presenting its two big attractions to its American customers: a 6-axle ADDRIVE with three self propelled axle lines and an STZ-P 9 (3+3+3) AA low loader semitrailer for use on North American highways.

ADDRIVE is something special: With its enormous versatility and wide range of potential applications, this switchable drive, which was unveiled at Bauma in Munich, optimizes working with heavy-duty modules – whether

www.dmnwestinghouse.uk Bulk Solids Today

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COMPANY NEWS

HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO ‘LET GO OF THE BABY’

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or many online retailers the decision to outsource the order fulfilment

function to a supply chain professional is often delayed because of the company owner’s entirely understandable reluctance to ‘let go of their baby,’ says William Walker, sales director of leading online fulfilment specialist, Walker Logistics For any online entrepreneur the ability to spot that the time is right to hand responsibility for his or her company’s order fulfilment processes to a third party is essential.

But, often, a desire to ‘micro manage’ every aspect of the business means that the decision to outsource to a supply chain professional is delayed and the company loses momentum at a critical moment in its development.

“Many internet trading companies have been started by people who feel an entirely understandable reluctance to ‘let go of their baby’,” says William Walker, sales director of leading online fulfilment specialist, Walker Logistics.

“It’s easy to see why, if you’ve spent a number of years building up a business, the idea of handing over all of your stock to another company can take some getting used to!” he adds.

“But,” he adds, “business owners who cannot overcome this emotional need to control all aspects of their operation risk stifling its growth.”

The competitive and economic benefits of outsourcing order fulfilment to a logistics specialist are well documented and, in most ‘reasons to outsource’ lists, cost reduction and the chance to free the client company’s 10

Bulk Solids Today

senior management’s time to focus on growing the business are usually near the top.

“The fact is that outsourcing to a logistics company does allow you to focus on your core business and usually does present an opportunity to reduce cost,” says William Walker.

“There are many more good reasons to use a logistics company but these two alone should be enough to sway most online SME companies,” he adds.

So how does an online company know when it is approaching the moment in its development to seek fulfilment support?

“There are a number of common change catalysts,” says William Walker. He continues: “One of the most frequent drivers is a business’s success. If you are a fast growing company that has to increase its stock holding and the amount of space needed to store that stock, you will obviously require bigger premises. But deciding exactly how much bigger can be difficult to gauge. If you are growing by a large percentage each year it might mean moving several times and this would obviously be costly, time consuming and inefficient.

“One of the benefits of a 3PL is that it can grow and expand with you. So if you’ve found your growing capacity is causing you problems it’s time to get professional outsourced support.”

As a company’s client base grows, lack of space isn’t the only problem: internet traders frequently find themselves running out of time to pick, pack and dispatch orders.

“Often, picking and

packing duties will be handled by the company owners plus a few other staff members whose job isn’t really picking and packing,” explains William Walker. “When order volume simply becomes unmanageable for the size of your team and their time, delays and errors

B2C supply chains.

Walker receives in-bound stock from India – where the Pampelone range is made – and stores lines at its multiuser facility close to Reading.

From here orders are picked, packed and dispatched to Pampelone’s stockists as well

creep in which lead to unhappy customers and more time spent dealing with customer service issues. It can get out of control and become a vicious circle quite quickly.”

William Walker continues: “Of course, most business owners want to concentrate on growth and becoming more profitable, so when you find you are having to focus more and ore time on logistics or supply chain issues, it means you are neglecting other aspects of your business. As a result opportunities can be lost and important strategic decisions delayed to the detriment of the business.

“A 3PL partner takes those time headaches away and leaves you to focus on what matters most.”

One company that has recently taken the plunge and moved from managing its own supply chain to outsourcing is Pampelone. Founded some two years ago by former fashion publicist, Holly Anna Scarsella, Pampelone had handled its logistics function in-house but, with sales – particularly online orders via the company’s website – growing significantly, this had become unsustainable.

Walker Logistics now has responsibility for managing the company’s B2B and

as individuals who buy online.

Consumer-bound items are gift-wrapped and dispatched along with a personalised delivery note and, in some cases, a complimentary gift, in specially designed packaging that reflects the Pampelone brand’s quality.

Because of the nature of the clothing produced and sold by Pampelone, orders from UK retail stockists tend to spike in the run-up to the holiday season, but online sales remain at a consistently high level throughout the year. ”The ability to cope with volume peeks and uneven demand is an often overlooked benefit of outsourcing, but it is something that will help Pampelone enormously,” says William Walker.

“Pampelone is just one example of a company that is enjoying the benefits of outsourced logistics because its owner overcame the natural and perfectly normal fear of ‘letting go’. There are many more. But, equally there are others who are failing to realise their true professional in part because their owners or senior managers simply can’t release them,” concludes William Walker. www.walkerlogistics.com

COMPANY NEWS

THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING IS COMING TO MATERIALS 2017…

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… BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

aterials 2017 seeks to explore a vast selection of construction materials – from glass, concrete and composites to brick, stone, smart materials, and timber – looking beyond purely aesthetic applications towards their more nuanced functionalities.

In this sense, latest Materials 2017 exhibitors, Metsä Wood, will demonstrate

made solely from wood.

Metsä’s Plan B is the brainchild of visionary Canadian architect Michael Green of MGA. It stands as an attempt to battle with misconceptions around the use of timber in creating solid, durable, and safe structures.

In addition to the structural aspect associated with using timber in building upwards, the material has been recognised for its

down the burning process.

To see Metsä’s Empire State Building alongside numerous other innovative and forward-thinking materials manufacturers and suppliers, register free now at www.materials2017. co.uk/register Held at the ILEC Conference Centre, London on the 25th-26th April 2017 – Materials 2017 has been developed to be

the affinity of timber in creating large, tall structures typically reserved for heavier material such as steel and concrete. Their impressive 5 metre-high replica of the Empire State Building, part of their Plan B project, is

environmental soundness and high-performance regarding fire safety; when burned, the surface of Kerto – the composite wood product used in the replica’s construction – is charred, which protects the product, insulates it, and slows

the one-stop show for all construction materials needs, for both specifiers and manufacturers or suppliers.

Don’t miss your chance to source the latest products and ideas for your projects.

Bulk Solids Today

11

COMPANY NEWS

AGILITY INDIA OPENS LIFE SCIENCES CENTER IN HYDERABAD Facility will serve fast-growing Indian life sciences exporters, offers partnership with va-Q-tec

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gility, a leading global logistics provider, has opened the first temperature-controlled life sciences storage and handling facility in the Hyderabad Airport Zone.

Agility’s 6,000-squarefoot Life Sciences Excellence Center (LSEC) at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is strategically placed to serve

fast-growing Indian life sciences companies meet the rising global demand for their products.”

The center will operate as the primary warehouse for solutions from va-Q-tec, an advanced passive packaging company specializing in high-end, secured cold chain products. va-Q-tec’s containers and boxes keep the

footprint in India, one of the fastest growing pharma exporters,” said va-Q-tec CEO Dr. Joachim Kuhn.

Global logistics executives

optimism among executives surveyed. China topped the 50-country rankings.

Agility is one of the largest freight forwarders

pharma manufacturers in Hyderabad, Goa, Pune, Vishakhapatnam and Bangalore. The centre will provide conditioning, preparation and storage of pharmaceutical goods and operate as a control tower for Agility life sciences customers in India.

Detlev Janik, CEO of Agility South Asia, said: “Life sciences is one of the cornerstones of the Indian economy with exports expected to grow an astonishing 60% in 2017.

This new center will help

required temperature for five days or longer without any external energy supply. The LSEC will house va-Q-tec’s inventory, perform quality checks, conditioning and preparation of containers, and box packaging for va-Q-tec’s products before the release of packaging for customers.

“Our partnership with Agility is a further example of how va-Q-tec develops and provides transportation systems with accompanying services for life sciences logistics. The cooperation will further strengthen va-Q-tec’s

recently selected India as the emerging market with the most potential and as the top investment destination for their countries in a survey that was part of the 2017 Agility Emerging Markets Logistics Index. India ranked as the No. 2 overall market in the rankings, which rated 50 countries based on market size and attractiveness, business conditions, and logistics and transport infrastructure and connections. India’s Goods & Services Tax reform was cited as a source for

and logistics providers in India, where it operates from 61 locations and controls 150,000 square meters of warehouse space covering all major ports, airports and inland locations in the country.

In the pharmaceutical sector, Agility helps companies move, store, distribute and manage goods in the highly attractive Indian market and helps Indian companies looking to explore opportunities outside of the country.

For more information about Agility, visit www.agility.com

NEW GLOBAL MANAGING DIRECTOR IN OSM

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perational excellence and expansion in a rapidly changing market will be key priorities for Bjoern Sprotte in his position as Global Managing Director for Technical Management & Services in OSM Maritime Group.

Sprotte will be responsible for all technical management and services worldwide, working out of OSM’s Singapore 12

Bulk Solids Today

office. He will focus on expanding and innovating the company’s range of services and thereby supporting the core business of OSM’s customers as a competent, reliable and transparent partner at all times.

Sprotte has extensive international experience within the shipping industry and served as CEO Maritime Services at Rickmers Group after holding various positions in commercial and technical management. Holding a degree in navigation and maritime transport, he

originally pursued a nautical career at sea and later attended postgraduate studies for his Master of Business Consulting. Prior to joining OSM, Sprotte has been part of the Leadership Team at Carnival Maritime, managing a large fleet of cruise ships in an innovative way at highest operational standards.

Says Bjoern Sprotte: “I’m proud to join a truly global team of very skilled and dedicated people and I look forward to further enhancing OSM’s contribution to the success of our customers

through operational excellence and innovative solutions.”

Says Geir Sekkesæter, CEO OSM Maritime Group: “I’m very happy to have Bjoern Sprotte on board heading up all our technical services worldwide and confident that his knowledge and determination for quality and building the organisation will benefit our customers and further development of OSM. Bjoern will in addition to heading up the technical organisation also be a member of the Executive team in OSM.” www.osm.no

COMPANY NEWS

OPTIMARIN SECURES FURTHER FINCANTIERI BUSINESS AS ORDER PIPELINE GROWS AFTER USCG APPROVAL

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ptimarin has signed a new agreement with Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding (FBS) in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin for the delivery of two 500m³/h capacity Optimarin Ballast Systems (OBS). The contract, identical to one secured last year, comes at a busy time for the Norwegian ballast water treatment (BWT) specialist, which has seen order enquiries go “through the roof” since securing USCG approval in December.

The fresh agreement will see both systems installed on an 155,000-barrel capacity clean products barge, with delivery scheduled for August 2018.

It is, according to Optimarin CEO Tore Andersen, an important sign of the trust his company’s clients have in both his business and its environmentally friendly UV technology.

“Repeat orders are one of the best endorsements any supplier can have,” Andersen comments. “And when they come from a company of Fincantieri’s standing it really is a cause for celebration.

They’re one of the premier specialized shipbuilders in the

Optimarin has been exclusively focused on developing BWT technology since its formation in 1994.

Renowned as the company to install the first ever commercial system – on the Princess Regal in 2000 – it also became the first supplier to receive full USCG approval in December 2016.

“This was a massive step forwards for the business,” Andersen explains. “We were already busy, but since that point enquiries have gone through the roof and our order pipeline is developing at a rate that has surprised even us. The industry knows that we are now leading the way in compliance, as well as expertise, and that, for any shipowner that wants the optimal flexibility for their global fleets, is of paramount importance.

“With USCG’s tough standards and IMO’s ratification of the Ballast Water Management (BWM) convention, BWT is an issue that no shipping company can afford to ignore. We’re here to help them find the best, safest and most compliant way forward for their vessels.

That’s our only focus, and I

industry, with huge experience and a reputation to match.

“They choose our technology because it is market proven, simple, easy to install and maintain, and compliant with the most rigorous regulations in the world. It gives them, and their customers, complete peace of mind for safe, predictable and environmentally responsible operations. In a sector that is still relatively young, the reassurance that our 20 plus years of expertise gives yards, owners and operators can’t be overstated.”

think the industry appreciates that level of dedication and proven experience.”

Optimarin has now received orders for around 500 OBS systems, with more than 300 installed worldwide.

Over 100 of these have been retrofits, delivered in conjunction with global engineering partners Goltens and Zeppelin Power Systems.

Last year was the firm’s most successful ever, as, fuelled by its success with the USCG, it won contracts for over 120 BWT units.

“We expect 2017 to

be even better,” Andersen concludes. “The order pipeline

Alongside approval from IMO and USCG, Optimarin’s

is strong, our technology and compliance credentials are second to none, and the industry has a genuine need. We expect to have more orders to announce in the very near future.”

technology is certified by a comprehensive range of classification organisations, including DNV GL, Lloyd’s, Bureau Veritas, MLIT Japan, and American Bureau of Shipping. www.optimarin.com

High Efficiency Drying or Cooling of Bulk Solids The Bella dryer/cooler offers thermal efficiencies to 80 percent or better because air flows around material while it is suspended in the weightless zone.

The result is a more consistent material.

Dynamic Air Ltd. • +44 (0)1908 622344

www.dynamicair.com Bulk Solids Today

13

COMPANY NEWS

TACKLING SKILLS SHORTAGES IN UK MANUFACTURING

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he struggle to recruit skilled workers is a recurring concern within the UK manufacturing industry. Earlier this year an EEF report revealed that three-quarters of manufacturers have struggled to recruit skilled workers in the last three years. This doesn’t reflect the situation at FANUC UK, who receives in excess of 50 applications for every vacancy and over 30 for most apprenticeship posts we advertise, says Andy Armstrong, UK Sales

not always well informed about their options. Local enterprises are left to shape their own local provision, so the responsibility very much falls at the feet of employers themselves.

Brexit has naturally created uncertainty for employers with regard to the apprenticeship levy, and this may deter employers from offering a programme in the future.

What’s more, Alan Johnson, head of Labour In for Britain, warned that around 50,000 manufacturing apprenticeships in the UK are dependent on

introduced to the company

by Midland Group Training Service (MGTS). Before his interview invite, James had no prior knowledge of the company. He explains: “What enticed me was the little yellow robot which was instantly recognisable within the letter head. From this point on I knew this was the place I wanted to work. I worked hard to impress and successfully earned my place within FANUC as an apprentice.”

James was selected over 25 other applicants, which

and Marketing Manager.

“At FANUC we believe that our success in attracting young engineering talent can be attributed to our long-standing commitment to engage with local schools, colleges and universities.

Open days, internships and work experience placements, combined with social media activities and attendance at career fairs have all helped to remove the stigma that manufacturing is a low paid, unexciting and mundane work environment.

“Our view is that young people today view engineering pathways within the automation sector as an

exports to the EU. If we suffer a prolonged recession during the negotiation, we may very well see apprenticeship numbers fall. Creating even more skills shortages.

From a business perspective, recruiting school leavers brings loyalty, fresh ideas and enthusiasm, highlights Andy. FANUC has offered a comprehensive apprentice and degree student ‘sandwich year’ programme for over two decades. The apprenticeship programme started in 1997 and in this time more than 16 apprentices have spent up to four years learning all aspects of the business and have been encouraged

he claims made him feel immensely proud and valued.

In order to attract and retain the very best talent within the industry, there needs to be close alignment between the education system, future business agendas and the local economic labour market needs, comments Andy. For example, if you examine the labour market statistics in the Midlands area where FANUC is based, production contributes as much as 38% of the regional economy, with the manufacturing-related services sector a key area for future growth. It also has one of the largest concentrations of precision-based SME

enticing career with stability and long term prospects.

For many applicants, apprenticeships are regarded as a cost effective way to undertake training and gain professional qualifications.

Significant investments by the government and wellestablished career institutions like SEMTA have helped to shake off the historic perceptions of apprenticeships among young people.

That said, I do think young people struggle to gain impartial advice and it’s not consistent throughout the UK. Consequently, students are

to progress academically.

Students from local universities also receive high levels of support with over 10 internships at FANUC UK. They typically work in product design or 3D simulation, but if interested in specific areas, such as marketing or software, FANUC endeavours to accommodate. These students often apply to join the company after completing their academic studies.

Illustrating the value of companies collaborating with local training providers, FANUC’s most recent apprentice James Bailey was

components manufacturers and skilled craft industries within the EU. Because of this concentration, FANUC has a big stake in the region and is continuing to invest with a major move to a new state of the art facility at Ansty Park, Coventry early next year.

“Interaction with robots from an early age is a great way to get future recruits excited about STEM subjects, and building this awareness and understanding is the first step in developing the robotics engineers of tomorrow,” says Andy. Last year, FANUC hosted visits from schools, colleges

Bulk Solids Today

Andy Armstrong, UK Sales and Marketing Manager at FANUC UK.

and universities. The company has also loaned equipment out to schools running open days in the past, and supported these interactive displays with careers guidance and information.

Training and workplace variety are equally important for workforce retention, claims Andy. There’s even been research to suggest that this is more important to some people than monetary rewards. To help reduce turnover of staff, FANUC offers an extensive rewards and remuneration package.

“As an organisation we encourage creativity and innovation and this means offering additional perks and job satisfaction to discourage them from looking elsewhere.”

Apprentice James Bailey agrees: “My job role includes all aspects of engineering, and I have been involved in a variety of projects and fabrications. My daily job role is to look after standalone robots. This includes the retrofitting and commissioning of robots. I have also been involved in servicing and commissioning work on site for injection moulding and robot incorporating manufacturing systems. My aim is to develop into a multiskilled technical and service engineer for the ROBOSHOT (injection moulding) department. Hopefully after a few years developing my skills in this area to a professional standard, I will be given the opportunity to step up into a managerial role in applications and projects. Eventually becoming a respected senior member of the FANUC team.” www.fanuc.eu

COMPANY NEWS

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THE IFOY AWARD 2017

NARROW AISLE’S MAN IN THE MIDDLE EAST

he International Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY AWARD) recognises the year’s best materials handling equipment and intralogistics solutions. The aim of the organisation is to document the performance capability and innovative drive of the materials handling and intralogistics sector, helping to boost competitiveness and raise the profile of the entire intralogistics sector in the public arena. The winners of the IFOY Award are selected once a year by an independent jury of international trade journalists.

The sponsor of the IFOY Award is the VDMA Materials Handling and Intralogistics Sector Association. The IFOY partners are Deutsche Messe with the leading international CeMAT trade fair for intralogistics in Hannover, and the Messe München trade fair company in Munich with the “transport logistic”, bauma and IFAT fairs. The IFOY pallet partner is CHEP, the global market leader in pallet pooling, The IFOY technology partner is the battery charging specialist Fronius. The patron of the IFOY Award is the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. The headquarters of the IFOY Organisation are in Unterföhring near Munich.

The finalists for the International Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY) Award 2017 are in. Eleven trucks from Crown, Jungheinrich, kickTrike, SSI Schäfer, Still, Torwegge and UniCarriers have been nominated for the final round from all the entries.

“The keywords are electric, autonomous and customised, and intralogistics

ntralogistics storage solutions specialist, Narrow Aisle Ltd, has announced the appointment of Damien Murray to head up the company’s business development across Middle East and Africa.

Damien will be located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), the business hub of the region and will be responsible for overseeing development of Narrow Aisle’s Flexi range of articulated warehouse truck systems throughout the region.

Damien started his career with Jungheinrich, latterly working with Aislemaster Combilift, he has broad experience of modern warehousing handling systems and in particular

T

is the clear leader. The frontrunners in the first round for the IFOY Award are the trendsetters and innovation pioneers in the new era of intralogistics”, says Anita Würmser, Chair of the IFOY Jury.

2017 NOMINATIONS AT A GLANCE CATEGORY: WAREHOUSE TRUCK • EMD 115i, Jungheinrich (electric) • iGo neo CX 20, Still (electric) • EPH 125 DTFV, UniCarriers (electric) CATEGORY: SPECIAL VEHICLE • WAV 60 “Wave” – multifunctional vehicle, Crown (electric) • kickTrike, kickTrike (electric) • Tugger train with automatic loading and unloading, Still (electric) CATEGORY: AGV / SHUTTLE • 2STACK® + ID.ADD – process innovation for automatic replenishment, SSI Schäfer • TORsten, Torwegge CATEGORY: SPECIAL OF THE YEAR • Indoor truck finder, Jungheinrich • PowerPlusLife battery, Still • Ergonomic dead man’s alternative DPS, UniCarriers Europe

I

delivering space-saving solutions and systems for the third party logistics sector.

John Maguire, commercial director of Narrow Aisle Ltd, commented: “We are very pleased to welcome Damien to our growing international business. His knowledge of intralogistics and the local market across the Middle East and Africa will be extremely valuable as we seek to further grow Narrow Aisle’s Flexi Articulated market across the Continent.” www.flexi.co.uk

Other Valves Fight Friction, We Designed it Out Unlike other valves that seal with friction, Posi-flate’s unique butterfly valve uses an inflatable seat to seal with air pressure. Thus it requires less torque and a smaller actuator, resulting in lower cost.

Plus, the seat automatically compensates for wear, providing longer life. Some users have reported over six million cycles and the valves are still going strong. s s s s s s

,ESS FRICTION ,OW TORQUE ,OW MAINTENANCE ,OWER ACTUATOR COSTS ,ONGER VALVE LIFE -ORE RELIABLE Tel: +44 (0) 1908 622366

www.posiflate.com Bulk Solids Today

15

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

THE MOVING OF SIEVED DRY INGREDIENTS FROM LOW CARE TO HIGH CARE ENVIRONMENTS IS BECOMING A MUST FOR FOOD MANUFACTURERS SUPPLYING CONSUMER GOODS

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he days of throwing a bag of food product through an open sieving machine and collecting it in a bin on the floor, with the hope that it would not get contaminated further whilst waiting for it to be introduced into the process system are numbered. Today hygiene and quality control are of paramount importance to all manufacturers, the risks involved when leaving product within an unclassified area are not acceptable in today’s high consumer demand and quality production. Due diligence must be seen to be carried out when any ingredients are being used especially when dispensing ingredients from possibly dirty pallets and bins. The consequences of mishandling and contamination can be catastrophic to all concerned – the manufacturer – the retailer – and the consumer. Health, wealth and happiness can all be affected!! Litigation can be very expensive and the loss of a big retail purchaser can be disastrous.

To overcome the possibility of cross contamination between a ‘dirty area’ and a ‘production clean area’ has become a very necessary requirement.

Segregation between the unloading and dispensing area and the manufacturing and processing area has required special consideration to how ingredients can be properly handled and sieved; in addition operator safety becomes a special requirement. Health and Safety demands that dust levels are maintained down to an acceptable level, and, the requirement in most instance to comply with the ATEX regulations all add to the issues which need resolving.

When sourcing equipment to carry out this task, it is often difficult to find items which will easily fit together and will suit the space available – a bespoke design being required in nearly all cases. Farleygreene Ltd has now designed a number of suitable options for processors. Available for the small to larger producer, each system provides a simple, effective and clean solution to segregate your ingredient loading and meeting your audit requirements.

Where small quantities of product are handled the simplest means of total segregation between areas is to locate the sieving machine to the outside of an enclosure protruding from the wall of the clean area. This allows the clean bin to be filled through the enclosure top. By using specially moulded diaphragm seals and sleeves Farleygreene can provide a completely isolated sieving arrangement. In addition when combined with the ‘553STS’ and ‘Easilift’ sack tip stations, the need to clean all contact components becomes a simple and effortless job, requiring only a few seconds of downtime and just a single operator.

Where larger quantities of product are involved, and especially where space is at a premium or distance of product transfer required it is possible to incorporate a vacuum transfer conveyor within the system. The sieve unit can be

16

Bulk Solids Today

located up to 40 Meters away from the discharge point thus allowing enormous flexibility within a building. This arrangement provides wide scope of system design. In addition it is possible to charge a number of process points directly without the need for bins or storage hoppers. A system can be designed to suit almost any rate of throughput, and can be incorporated within any type of Farleygreene sieve.

For those requiring higher throughputs of multi ingredients a sack tip counter is very often the best option. Comprising a counter located to the segregated area wall with individual sieves mounted upon it to allow one product to each sieve. Using the unique sealing system between sieve and clean area this arrangement serves the high rate throughput user many benefits.

Speed of cleaning without any tools, faster dispensing time, operator comfort. Each system can be supplied with a full dust extraction system, stairways and work platforms.

Farleygreene are noted for their ability to provide answers to difficult processing needs, their portfolio includes many blue chip companies who use their services for not only standard sieving machinery but also to problem solve their quality needs. Coupled with this they can provide full certification of all parts within the system as well as spares and service packages to ensure traceability and optimum performance.

If you have a need for integrity and segregation of your products to suit audit specifications, Farleygreene can certainly provide the system to suit your requirements.

Visit www.farleygreene.com to view the vast range of sieving equipment Farleygreene can provide.

Intelligent Drivesystems, Worldwide Services

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

RELIABLE

VERSATILE

GLOBAL

A complete range of geared motors rated at 0.12...200kW provides the optimum solution for all drive requirements. For convenient control combine with our decentralised inverter range to 22kW.

NORD Gear Limited

11 Barton Lane, Abingdon, OX14 3NB Tel. No.: +44 (0) 1235 534404 Email: GB-Sales@nord.com

Member of the NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group

Bulk Solids Today

17

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

NEW VGM WEIGHING SYSTEMS FOR HYSTER® REACHSTACKERS

H

yster Company has introduced two weighing systems that can be fitted to Hyster® ReachStackers and Laden Container Handlers to obtain a Verified Gross Mass (VGM), as required by the recently introduced SOLAS Legislation.

The new Hyster® Static and Static Plus systems are quick and easy to use, cost effective and have limited impact on container throughput. At the touch of a button the operator sets into action a pre-programmed lift cycle to obtain the VGM. Using a screen display in the cab, the ReachStacker or Laden Container Handler operator can quickly input container identification and have a time stamped VGM attached to it.

VGM data can be saved to a data module or printed using an in-cab printer, and 3G or WiFi options are available on some models to deliver data to the Terminal Operating System. For maximum flexibility, the system display can show Gross, Tare and Net weights.

Whether installed to existing Hyster® trucks or factory-fitted to new ReachStackers, both systems are based on hydraulic load sensing technology, offering low maintenance requirements, and comply with the OIML R51 class Y(b) guidelines.

The Static Plus weighing system is recommended for countries where “Legal for Trade*” regulations apply and can be used on all new and existing Hyster® ReachStackers and Laden Container Handlers. This solution is delivered in cooperation with Trimble and uses the Trimble® Loadrite® L2180 system. Trimble is a 18

Bulk Solids Today

global leading provider of on-board weighing solutions for a wide range of applications that maximise productivity.

With Static Plus, drivers simply pick a container and lift the load for 5 seconds. There is no workflow disruption as the container weighing can occur during truck manoeuvring and the system is highly accurate with a weighing error of approximately 1% of load weight. Furthermore, custom field entries are possible, including container I.D., destination, location and more.

In addition, for countries where “Legal for Trade” regulations do not apply, the Staticweighing system can be used. With this option, drivers pick a container with the boom fully retracted which is then raised to a 25-30 degrees angle and the weight is verified within 15 seconds. The system has been specifically developed to work with most Hyster® ReachStacker models that are up to five years old. www.hyster.eu

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

TRAVIS PERKINS PLC EMPLOYEES THROUGH TO GRAND FINAL OF FORKLIFT OPERATOR OF THE YEAR COMPETITION

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wo forklift truck operators from

Travis Perkins plc, the UK’s largest distributor of building materials to the trade, construction and home improvement markets, are celebrating success after qualifying as finalists in RTITBS’s Forklift Operator of the Year competition.

Adam Hayes and Kristian Sherratt battled it out against forklift operators from across the UK, US and India to be crowned as finalists in an intense four day competition, held at the International Materials Handling Exhibition at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre.

The complicated tests included a theory knowledge assessment and a number of practical challenges, including moving an open case of 4,000 balls out of a high level rack with a rotator attachment. They then needed to tip all the balls into a new case without dropping a single one – Adam and Kris were the only two competitors to do this successfully.

Adam said: “Qualifying is an amazing achievement in its own right, but I’m already looking forward to being put through my paces next year and giving it my all in the Grand Final. The support from colleagues has been incredible and I’d like to thank everyone involved.”

Kris who has been driving forklifts for more than 10 years, added: “I was ecstatic to hear that I had made it through to the finals this being the first competition I have entered where I’ve been driving the trucks. I just want to do all the Travis Perkins plc team proud in the finals.”

Mike Seddon, instructor and trainer at Travis Perkins plc, said: The competition celebrates the skills, safety and professionalism of forklift operators globally and as a business that puts safety first, we are very proud that Adam and Kris were able to demonstrate this in practice. They both impressed the judges with their knowledge and outstanding manoeuvring skills – we wish them the best of luck in the rest of the competition.”

Adam Hayes and Kristian Sherratt will be taking part in the Forklift Operator of the Year Grand Final at RTITB’s headquarters in early 2017.

For further information about Travis Perkins plc visit www.travisperkinsplc.co.uk.

NEW AWARD WINNING VARICONE FIBC DISCHARGER from Process Link

(MULTI-PATENTED)

Varicone Features Include:Adjustable FIBC Top Frame Auto Adjustable Discharger Inflatable FIBC Outlet Seal Vibration ‘Earthquake’ Machine Adjustable Varicone Cone Part Bag Tie Off Facility Dust Tight in operation so operator safe plus minimum operator involvement from discharge to bag empty Programmable Sequencing Built in Discharge Sensors Hoist or Fork Truck loadable

Demonstrations start in April.

Contact us today with dates to suit you. Come and see the way our Varicone monitors the discharge and uses our new earthquake technique.

T: 01608 662878, E: info@processlink.co.uk W: www.processlink.co.uk W: www.powdervalve.co.uk Bulk Solids Today

19

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

FROM FARM TO FIDO – HOW BULK HANDLERS ARE SUPPORTING THE UK’S PETS As details emerge of record spending on pet food following a surge in demand for highquality products, FPE Global’s CEO Dave Cooper discusses how bulk handling firms are ensuring the 57 million pets across the UK are provided with the highest quality products.

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t home and across the globe, the UK enjoys its status as a nation of animal lovers. It is estimated that 40 per cent of households across the UK host a pet, while there are approximately 8.5 million pet dogs alone nationally. As a result, we are now spending more money than ever before on our pets.

A record £10.6bn is expected to be spent on dogs by owners in 2017 as pet pampering reaches new heights. Representing a 25 per cent increase since 2010, the spending comes as pet owners invest in an increasingly diverse range of products and services, from travel and treats to bespoke accessories and hygiene.

Nowhere is this more apparent than in the pet food sector, where an increasing demand for higher-quality products has emerged. As a result, Britain’s dog owners are willing to increase spending in this area, and are expected to invest an estimated £393 per person on pet food products this year. With the average owner set to spend £1,252 on their pets over the next 12 months, food represents the largest single cost and is a significant outlay for owners.

Reflecting the recent trends in human food production and consumption, the addition of genetically modified ingredients and unnatural preservatives in pet food is no longer a consideration for many health-conscious owners. Modern pet food manufacturers are now sourcing higher-quality ingredients than ever before, including sustainably sourced and organic vegetables, grains and meats, to raise the quality of products.

The bulk handling sector has also responded to these new standards, adopting advanced techniques and multifunctional equipment to ensure that there is as much care put into pet food production as there is human food.

Bulk Materials Handling system provider, FPE Global, operates with robust food safety protocols and stringent processing measures from receipt of product through to processing and delivery, ensuring pet food processing is as safe and efficient as possible.

As is the case with human food, maintaining careful handling of pet food products from arrival through to processing and delivery is vital. Providing a sterile and 20

Bulk Solids Today

hygienic environment nullifies the threat of cross contamination, which has the potential to cause recall of a product and damage relationships with a brand.

FPE Global has developed full scale Test Facilities in order to give their clients reassurance that their product can be conveyed quickly and safely, whilst also demonstrating that cross contamination during the materials handling process is completely avoided.

Stringent de-packing and storage measures ensure products with different ingredients and nutritional compounds such as dog and cat food are kept separately, while the utilisation of lowvelocity dense-phase conveying maintains the integrity and quality of dry food products.

Retaining the desired shape of dry foods and delivering a visually appealing product is also important. Brands are often very strict on breakdown and, as many dry pet food products are designed to be a certain size and shape, may turn away products that fail to meet stringent structural requirements.

To achieve this, gentle conveying and handling of the material is essential. FPE employs the latest automation systems, utilising dense-phase, low-speed conveying systems for its dry food material handling solutions.

After going through rigorous changes to its physical state during the production process, each individual piece of pet food product is subject to precise ingredient addition and size requirements at the processing stage. Once the material has been extruded, dry pet food is subject to drying and cooling. Following that, the product is coated with a digestive and is then conveyed through the packing lines, ready for shipping.

The pet food industry is a competitive and rapidly developing market. As new standards and higher demand for pet food emerge in consideration of the health and well-being of our pets, the duty of manufacturers and bulk handling firms to deliver the highest standard of products becomes equally important.

With the cutting-edge technologies and techniques now adopted by the industry, FPE Global is able to deliver against the standards customers have come to expect. www.fpeglobal.com

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

FAST, HIGH CAPACITY PRECISION MIXING

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he new Bella XN double shafted Fluidized Zone Mixer by Dynamic Air includes access doors which not only increase accessibility but also make it much easier to clean when necessary. The Bella mixer achieves fast, high capacity, low shear, precision mixing of either dry bulk solids or liquids with solids.

Regardless of particle size, shape or density, materials are mixed with a fast, efficient, and gentle action – typical mixing times are 60 seconds or less. A weightless zone created by low-speed counter rotating shafts generates very low friction without shear. This makes it ideal for fragile products that cannot tolerate rough handling.

Even flakes or spray-dried bodies remain intact. The Bella XN mixer includes twin bomb-bay door openings for fast, efficient discharging and to minimize segregation during discharge. The Bella mixer is available in stainless steel for sanitary applications. Custom sizes, finishes and materials of construction are available upon request. http://www.dynamicair.com/products/mixer_b350xn.html Tel: +44-1908-622344 E-mail: sales@dynamicair.co.uk

Tuf-Lok ring grip pipe and tube couplings are rugged, heavy duty, self-aligning and self-grounded couplings with a high end pull. They can be used for almost any application where pipe or tube ends need to be connected. The Tuf-Lok self-aligning couplings install quickly and easily with little effort.

Features • Self-aligning • Self-grounding • High pressure rated • Full vacuum rated • Stainless or mild steel • Usable on thin or thick wall pipe or tube • Low cost • Reusable • Absorbs vibration • Externally leakproof

Tuf-Lok (UK) Tel: +44 (0) 1706 822512 Email: sales@tuflok.co.uk • www.tuflok.com Bulk Solids Today

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BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

NEW TRUCK WIDENS RANGE OF DOOSAN MACHINES AT QUARRY

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new DA40-5 Stage IV compliant articulated dump truck (ADT) is now part of three generations of Doosan machines, mostly purchased over the last ten years, being used at the quarrying operations of Humberside Aggregates at North Cave in East Yorkshire in the UK. The new Doosan ADT is working alongside four Doosan crawler excavators comprising DX530LC-3, DX420LC-3, DX300LC-3 and DX225LC-3 models and a total of seven Doosan wheel loaders including DL420-3 and DL450-3 machines and the very latest DL450-5 Stage IV model bought this year. All of the Doosan equipment was supplied by Filtermech Plant Sales Ltd based in Wakefield, the Authorised Doosan dealer for the area.

The design of the new DA40-5 ADT goes far beyond just meeting the latest Stage IV/Tier 4 Final emission standards and incorporates many additional features and product improvements to establish a new benchmark in load carrying performance, fuel efficiency, enhanced controllability and high operator comfort, together with improved reliability, durability and reduced maintenance and servicing costs.

The North Cave quarry produces two types of sand – an 0/2mm soft sand and an 0/4mm sharp sand mainly used in the concrete industry and three types of stone – 10 mm, 20 mm and 40 mm gravels which are used for decorative applications, pipe bedding and bulk trench fills. All of the Sands and Gravels have a CE Marking.

Humberside Aggregates can also supply Type 1 Limestone, Crusher Run and Single Size Limestone, Hardcore. Chalk, Topsoil (BS3882), Impermeable Clay and Ballast from the North Cave operations.

Humberside Aggregates operates to strict standards – BES 6001 for Responsible Sourcing, BS EN 9001 for quality control, BS EN 14001 for environmental conformance and BS OHSAS 18001 for Health and Safety.

After quarrying works are completed, the team at Humberside Aggregates liaises with The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust regarding restoration design requirements. The other Doosan excavators at Humberside Aggregates are then utilised to form the landscape into lakes and other features. The restored areas are then handed to The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust who manage and develop these into the fantastic ‘North Cave Wetlands’.

Humberside Aggregates will also accept inert/spoil muckaway, 22

Bulk Solids Today

which can be delivered to the site in North Cave. The company can also provide quotations for muckaway collections from customer sites. As well as the restoration work at North Cave, the clay and inert/spoil muckaway is also used in ecological projects carried out elsewhere using Doosan excavators by sister company, Humberside Excavations, for Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, the Environmental Agency and other organisations.

Like all Doosan ADTs, the DA40-5 model features an articulation hinge positioned behind the turning ring to provide equal weight distribution to the front axle even during maximum steer articulation. This together with a free-swinging rear tandem bogie ensures equal distribution of weight to each wheel and guarantees permanent 6-wheel contact and drive for equal power distribution and excellent performance on difficult terrain. Collectively, the forward turning point, the unique tandem bogie and the sloping rear frame results in ‘best in class’ rough and soft terrain capabilities and avoids the need for electronic aids such as traction control.

The best-in-class fuel consumption of the Doosan DA405 is down to a combination of features including the new Scania DC13 368 kW (493 HP) diesel engine, meeting the Stage IV/Tier 4 Final emission regulations through the use of both Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (ECR) technologies and a new ZF EP transmission, improving the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels for outstanding traction. When this is coupled with the enhanced rear differential system which reduces engine rpm and further increases machine durability, customers are ensured of an improved cost per tonne carried with the Doosan ADT range.

Backed by over 27 years of experience in the construction equipment market, Filtermech (www.filtermech.com) offers the full range of Doosan Heavy products including ADTs, Crawler Excavators, Wheeled Excavators and Wheel Loaders.

The company stocks a full selection of genuine Doosan accessories and parts to support every machine in the field and can support these with flexible and comprehensive service agreements, depending on the requirements of the customer.

For more information about Doosan construction equipment, visit www.doosanequipment.eu

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

PELI BIOTHERMAL CRĒDO™ CARGO NOW AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE Peli BioThermal announced its advanced new pallet shipper system, Crēdo™ Cargo, is now available to buy and rent for the first time with the highly engineered, passive temperature-controlled bulk shipper offering high performance and robust reliability for the global transportation of pharmaceutical payloads.

F

ollowing an intensive design, testing and qualification process the pallet accepting bulk shipper is in full production launching in the marketplace in January 2017. The production version was unveiled

at the 16th Annual Temperature Controlled Logistics, Europe event, held at London’s ExCel exhibition centre.

Crēdo™ Cargo provides an array of unique design features within the temperature controlled packaging sector including utilising PCM (phase change material) coolants incorporating innovative slot-in system mechanism designed for rapid loading and unloading, and has a duration in excess of five days.

INFLATABLE SEATED BUTTERFLY VALVE

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he Posi-flate inflatable seated butterfly valve is ideally suited for abrasive materials such as sand, feldspar, fly ash and most other dry, granular materials which reduce valve life. The inflatable seat design provides a better seal by utilizing air pressure to expand the seat against the disc, providing more sealing area and an even pressure distribution against the disc every time. The seat automatically compensates for wear when it inflates against the disc, extending valve life considerably. Because the Posi-flate disc only makes casual contact with the seat during opening and closing, torque requirements are substantially lower. This ease of movement also allows the disc to come to a perfect 90-degree position every time. Additionally, the smooth profile of the disc helps material flow easier and reduces build-up.

For unique fail-safe monitoring, a pressure switch can be utilized to verify a perfect seal. Standard sizes range from 2” (50mm) to 30” (750mm). The valves are available in a wide variety of construction materials including stainless steel and aluminum.

Tel: +44 (0)1908 622366 E-mail: sales@posiflate.co.uk www.posiflate.com

The reusable system, designed specifically to accept a full ISO pallet, is helping to revolutionise the temperature-controlled bulk shipper market.

The pioneering product is the result of intensive and extensive research and development

we focus on customers specific requirements offering innovative sieving equipment technologies for all industry sectors

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pallet jack and forklift handling.

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The new bulk shipper, utilising PCM coolants coupled with the unique slot-in components, ensures high performance and consistent temperature stability in excess of 120 hours. Its robust design makes it

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ideal for the rigours of global logistics applications.

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With a volume of 1856L and covering temperature ranges +2C to +8C, +15C to +25C and -20C, Crēdo sets new standards in the global, bulk shipper market.

Visit pelibiothermal.com to learn more about the wide range of Peli BioThermal reusable thermal shippers.

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program for temperature controlled pallet shippers, with global reach.

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on Demand program, which offers a high performance, flexible rental

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It is available for the first time to rent via Peli BioThermal’s Crēdo

we have a sieving solution for your application see our website

farleygreene.com also check out our website to see where we will be exhibiting in 2017 Bulk Solids Today

23

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

PROCESS LINK LAUNCHES ITS MULTI-PATENTED NEW VARICONE FIBC DISCHARGER

P

rocess Link has officially launched their new multi patented Varicone FIBC Discharger system, to take FIBC Discharging of Powders to the next level.

Our Chairman/Director Bill Snape has been in the powder handling industry for almost 60 years and is the holder of many powder handling patents, including the 2000 Series IBC, the Linkbin IBC system, the Membrane Slide Valve and the rapid changeover Cassette Slide Valve to name but a few. Being involved with the manufacture and supply of all sorts of powder processing equipment to a range of businesses including large UK and multi-national organisations, as well as smaller companies has allowed Bill Snape to supply specialised equipment tailored to cover their requirements and site location limitations and to improve their efficiency and product output.

During this time he has solved regular powder handling issues and it was only inevitable Bill turned his attention to FIBC Filling and Discharging, the latter being particularly important with the recent trend in many industries to take FIBC’s directly into processes to discharge them. In the last couple of years and after many months in developing the concept further, the Varicone FIBC Discharger design was finalised, and Process Link was awarded the Innovation Award by SHAPA in 2015, after winning the 2014 competition.

During 2015/16 we have gained proven field experience with Varicone, a must for any new product entering

Earthquake Machine – the plate only supports the bag outlet and a small surround so that when the earthquake takes place, the compacted powder foundations are undermined so the collapse takes place. However, the only area that accepts the collapse is the hole in the bottom of the bag. Also, as the bag starts to sag, the area between the earthquake plate and the outer perimeter of the base of the bag is unsupported because at this stage the Varicone is in a relaxed state, which encourages the bag to droop searching for support. the marketplace for the first time and have also installed a system in the companies Demonstration facility.

SO WHAT MAKES VARICONE DIFFERENT TO OTHER FIBC DISCHARGER’S Firstly it has been designed to take often powders that are highly compacted due to bouncing on fork trucks and flat-bed lorries and in some cases have travelled thousands of miles not surprisingly therefore they don’t want to discharge. After carrying out extensive development, we decided our new Varicone FIBC Discharger had to be designed to encourage the product through the outlet under gravity, so as to preventing further compaction as with others solutions. Secondly it had to handle both difficult powders and free flowing powders using the same design. Finally we wanted a Discharger that could accommodate handling full FIBC bags of various sizes and the ability to tie off half empty FIBC’s. The result is a highly successful multi patented design.

THE PATENTED VARICONE EARTHQUAKE MACHINE When an earthquake of sufficient magnitude occurs, then otherwise sturdy buildings can be dramatically collapsed by the force of the earthquake. Why does this happen? It is because the earthquake undermines the foundations of the building – once this happens, then the building that was once supported by the foundations (in some cases for hundreds of years) has no choice but to collapse downwards regardless of how sturdily it has been constructed. We use the same powerful approach so dramatically

24

Bulk Solids Today

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING

Varicone’s Extendable Cone

and effectively demonstrated by nature, to undermine the foundations of the highly compacted powders in a typical FIBC, thus giving the powder above it, no choice but to fall through the FIBC outlet. The only area free to accept the collapse as illustrated below. Because this is applied in a very controlled manner, the powder is always maintained in a free flowing state, it is never overworked which can cause re-compaction, thus it is a highly effective and efficient discharge system.

We needed to develop a Discharger incorporating detectors, which could signal additional vibration if & when required, but also to encourage the powder to collapse inwards. The result after many months of development and trials we came up with the patented Varicone “Earthquake” machine, that encourages the FIBC to collapse the centre column core of powder first, thus leaving the walls of powder to stand. As additional agitation is applied the walls collapse further into the central core and then easily discharged.

The process is repeated as necessary and can also be programmed into the control panel sequencing for a specific powder or a range of different powders.

AUTO TENSIONING OF THE FIBC During discharge, the FIBC sides are automatically prevented from collapsing with auto tensioning to encourage the flow of powder. Should different sized FIBC’s be required then an adjustable top frame can be supplied to suit a range of FIBC big bags.

patent awarded late 2016. Finally vacuum is applied to collapse the bag encouraging product trapped in the four corners of the bag flat bottom to find their way to the outlet. Now the operator ties off the bag outlet tube before releasing the tube connection and removing the empty bag. He is therefore secure at all times.

SEMI-AUTOMATIC FIBC OUTLET TRUNK SEALING With controlled dust tight discharge and a new semi-automatic FIBC outlet bag seal, it was essential we have made the task easier and cleaner for operatives. It also lends itself to making the features advantages more efficient for operatives, as described above.

PART FIBC BIG BAG TIE OFF FACILITY Operators also have the facility to tie off part full bags, a very useful capability should the process only require part of an FIBC bag product, so allowing the bag to be removed and put back into the stores.

BUILT IN DISCHARGE SENSORS Varicone has also been designed with built in discharge sensors should Customers want to have pre-set discharge programmes for multiple powder characteristics.

FIBC LOADING OF BAGS Our Varicone FIBC Discharger can be designed for either Fork Truck, or Hoist handling systems and capable of handling almost any size of FIBC Big Bag.

ADJUSTABLE VARICONE CONE

allowed to rise slowly at the final stages of discharge, as dictated by the auto control programme forming the FIBC into a “cone shape” thus enhancing the discharge further.

The Varicone Cone seen above illustrates the various automatic stages of shaping the FIBC towards the end of the discharge procedure. The Varicone Cone forms part of our second Varicone

AUTO ADJUSTABLE CONTROLLED DISCHARGE During discharge the Operator can leave the system to run through its controlled discharge sequence before returning to remove the FIBC and replace it with a new bag. This allows the operator to spend most of his time on other jobs so making him more profitable.

BESPOKE CONTROLS The Varicone FIBC Discharger is supplied with a bespoke control panel, designed to suit a customer’s powder handling requirements and if required a sequence menu for varying powder characteristics.

Continued on next page

t

During the development and in the interests of keeping headroom to a minimum, Process Link decided to create a Varicone Cone that forces the FIBC into a cone shape, making it ideal for the final discharge sequence. This is manufactured out of similar material to the FIBC and of course is not a contact part, so can be used many times and with different powders. The Varicone Cone is

Bulk Solids Today

25

BULK MATERIALS HANDLING OPTIONS FOR DISCHARGING OUR VARICONE FIBC DISCHARGER INTO PROCESS These include using our energy efficient vibratory feeders or straight into process, via our dust tight manual, or automatic membrane slide valves. Others might include feeding directly into a mill, mixer, mobile hopper, formulation system or pack off station, depending on the industry in question. All these solutions can be provided by Process Link.

FURTHER VARICONE SOLUTIONS We are also planning a Varicone Mobile Discharge Station version, and a Fixed Varicone Site Surge Hopper/Low Headroom Silo.

VARICONE TRIALS Process Link also offers a Trials Service using customers products so they can be assured the discharge performance of difficult powders can be achieved continuously. Call us on 01608 662878 or email us on info@processlink.co.uk.

SEMINARS Process Link will be organising Varicone Seminars during April 2017 and spaces can be booked via info@ processlink.co.uk either joining other companies or for a staff group from your own company.

Typical Applications for the Varicone FIBC Discharge System include:VARICONE SURGE HOPPER/SILO LINKBIN BLENDING STATION Linkbin Blender speeds up the mixing process. Place Linkbin in unit and blender is ‘charged’ Remove blended bin and blender is ‘discharged’ ready for next mix without the need for cleandown etc.

To Bin Blender

PRODUCT FORMULATION STATION

MIXING PROCESS STATION

To Bin Blender

Linkbin and Varicone discharging via formulation station and back in to Linkbin or FIBC for transfer to mixing process filling Linkbins and FIBC’s.

RAW MATERIALS FILLING STATION

FEEDING RAW MATERIALS STATION

Linkbin filling from sack, drum tip, FIBC, Silo etc.

Linkbin discharging into next process and back into Linkbin for transfer to next stage.

FINAL PACKING OFF PROCESS STATION

Linkbin or Varicone discharging in to Process Link Bag Filling station (or sacks/boxes/drums with liners etc) or any final process e.g. Retail Packaging/Tabletting machine prior to despatch.

Designed and manufactured by a Powder Handling Specialist For more Equipment & systems to go www.processlink.co.uk and www.powdervalve.co.uk Process Link Ltd, Tilemans Lane, Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire, CV36 4QZ Tel: 01608 662878 Email: info@processlink.co.uk 26

Bulk Solids Today

Varicone charging into mixer and then mixer discharging into FIBC or Linkbin for transfer to pack off stations.

CONVEYING

DUST, QUALITY & COST. WE’VE GOT IT IP64 COVERED!

R

PNEUMATIC WEIGH HOPPER WITH FILL/PASS VALVE

A

new weigh hopper with Fill/Pass Valve for dilute-phase pneumatic conveying systems has been introduced by Flexicon. Suspended from three small-scale load cells, the gain-in-weight hopper delivers higher accuracy than lossof-weight systems requiring higher-capacity load cells.

Single or multiple hoppers can be positioned along a common vacuum or positive pressure pneumatic conveying line for discharging of dry bulk solids into single or multiple process equipment, storage vessels or downstream use points by weight. Downstream of the last fill/pass valve, the conveying line can be routed to the original material source point or into a dust collection device.

The system’s controller weighs a batch by changing the position of the valve which diverts conveyed material into the hopper. As the hopper fills, load cells transmit weight gain information to a PLC. Once the batch weight has been reached, the valve redirects material away from the hopper. The controller then actuates a slide gate valve to open, discharging the weighed batch.

Rated for the pressure differentials associated with pneumatic conveying, the conical hopper is eccentric with a vertical sidewall to promote complete discharge of weighed materials for batching accuracy.

The unit is constructed of stainless steel finished to industrial or sanitary standards to suit virtually any chemical, mineral, plastics or food processing application.

The company also supplies flex-tube diverters, wyediverters, plug diverters and other line diverter configurations to optimise any pneumatic conveying system.

In addition to complete pneumatic conveying systems, Flexicon manufactures flexible screw conveyors, tubular cable conveyors, box/container tippers, bulk bag dischargers, bulk bag conditioners, bulk bag fillers, bag dump stations, weigh batching and blending systems, and engineered plant-wide bulk handling systems with automated controls.

For information contact Flexicon Europe Ltd, Tel: +44 (0)1227 374710, sales@flexicon.co.uk, www.flexicon.co.uk

obson Handling Technology Ltd, a UK based specialist in material handling solutions has achieved IP64 approval for its products.

Responding to valuable customer feedback, Robson has undertaken third party testing to ensure that their state of the art sealing technology performs to IP64, the Ingress Protection rating.

Robson’s conveyors have been ATEX approved for many years. The Robson sealing technology now IP64 rated, provides re-assurance of dust containment. This sealing technology removes the dangers associated with dust emissions when conveying potentially explosive materials, such as Biomass, Grain and Sugar. Additionally, containment prevents spillages which in turn reduces waste for users as well as saving housekeeping and cleaning costs.

In addition to the local environment being protected, the conveyed material is also protected from the outside elements, ensuring continuous material quality.

Products covered include the Airglide, Belt Conveyor, Bucket Elevator, Lump Breaker and Screw Conveyor. www.robson.co.uk

Handling Dry Bulk Solids?

UniTrak Powderflight’s range of equipment moves a wide variety of products with minimum effort and maximum efficiency.

For compact reliable conveying call UniTrak Powderflight.

Bulk Solids Today

27

CONVEYING

MECHANICAL CONVEYOR CHOICES: EVERYTHING TO CONSIDER Chris Brennan, Senior Application Engineer, Spiroflow Ltd

S

electing the best mechanical conveyor for an application is crucial to processing success and for business profits.

Spiroflow has a comprehensive range of conveyors that processers can choose from and our main objective is to provide our customers with the safest, most efficient, and most reliable conveying solution for their application.

We have worked with our customers for many years to make sure they get the exact conveyor for their needs and this is a service that we promise to continue.

This article breaks down what processors should keep in mind when working with a conveyor manufacturer, along with a useful reference chart that provides a very high-level indication of conveyor performance for a variety of metrics.

MECHANICAL CONVEYOR SELECTION PRODUCT ATTRIBUTES The type of product you plan on conveying is one of the biggest determining factors when considering which conveyor to choose.

How would you describe your material’s characteristics? Engineers will need to know the bulk density, particle size, moisture content, temperature, and abrasiveness of your product. Is it hygroscopic or likely to segregate? Is the product cohesive? Are there other properties that affect how it can be conveyed?

FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PERFORMANCE What are your desired conveying rates and capacities? What are your layout requirements and constraints? What materials of construction do you require?

Will your conveyor require multiple inlets or outlets? Must it elevate material or move it through multiple planes? Do you need the conveyor to provide a variable conveying rate? How will you feed your material into the conveyor? Will it need to provide gentle handling? Does the conveyor need to be enclosed to contain dust or prevent material contamination?

Do you require a dust collection system?

Do you need a weight measurement for the delivered ingredients?

OPERATING FEATURES Can the conveyor handle your required conveying distance? Can it handle your current and future conveying volumes? Does the conveyor have high installation costs or high operating costs? Can it be installed in your existing operation? Will it operate in a sanitary environment? Do you require an integral bag/sack dump hopper? Do you require a mobile conveyor? Does the environment require explosion proof equipment?

SERVICE LIFE What is the projected work life of the operation this conveyor will serve? Some conveyors are light-duty units suitable for intermittent or short-term operation, while others are heavy-duty machines designed for continuous long-term operation. Consider what service life your conveyor must provide to ensure that it can handle your application.

28

Bulk Solids Today

CONVEYING offer advice based on which unit can successfully handle your material as well as provide the best combination of low purchase price, low operating cost, and high efficiency.

TESTING THE MATERIAL Ideally, the supplier will also have a test lab with conveyors of various types to help determine which one can best handle your material and operating conditions. Ask the supplier for references to check whether previous customers with applications like yours are satisfied with the conveyors they have purchased.

PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE Make sure that your supplier guarantees that the conveyor will successfully transfer your material and perform reliably and costeffectively for the long run. At Spiroflow we ensure all equipment solutions have been tested in our laboratories.

MECHANICAL CONVEYOR COMPARISON CHART The mechanical conveyor comparison chart shows how flexible screw conveyors, tubular drag conveyors, aero mechanical conveyors and pneumatic conveyors compare on all the criteria listed above.

FLEXIBLE SCREW CONVEYORS These go by many names and are often referred to as auger screws, screw augers, flexible augers, screw conveyors, flex conveyors, helix or helical conveyors, flexible spiral conveyors, or spiral screw conveyors. They are dust-free, low energy, low maintenance, and economical. They provide gentle handling and constant remixing. They are also easy to install.

LONG TERM ENERGY REQUIREMENTS Consider how the conveyor’s energy use will affect its operating costs over the long term.

THE MANUFACTURER When selecting a conveyor, we recommend that you work with a supplier who offers several conveyor types. This is because they will have a broad range of experience to satisfy your conveying performance needs and to ensure that the conveyor selected will withstand your process’s service level throughout the life of the process. The supplier should also

AERO MECHANICAL CONVEYORS Aero mechanical conveyors offer high conveying capacities and total batch transfer. The cable and disc assembly is driven through a totally enclosed tubular system that fluidises material at high speeds through a circuit. Aero mechanical conveyors provide a reliable means of transporting material between processes with low energy consumption.

TUBULAR DRAG CONVEYORS Tubular drag conveyors utilise a cable and disc assembly or a chain and disc assembly. These conveyors are made of a series of straight and curved tubes or structural pipe to provide a totally enclosed system that gently pulls material between the discs through the conveying path. Drag conveyors allow for complex circuits with multiple inlets and outlets.

They provide total batch transfers but sacrifice conveying rate due to the lower operating speed than flex screw or aero mechanical conveyors. Operating speed is determined by the setup of the circuit and distance travelled.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS? Spiroflow has been in the bulk material handling industry for more than four decades. If you encounter a problem, we most probably have a solution. Please contact us for further information on what we do, or visit our website at www.spiroflow.com to see our full line of products and services, including control systems integration.

Bulk Solids Today

29

CONVEYING

PET FOOD SNACKS UniTrak Powderflight gives less product breakage, reduced the amount of product spillage, and gave a greater throughput yield for one multi-national pet food producer.

U

niTrak Powderflight was asked to help a multi-national pet food producer solve an existing conveyor issue, which our TipTrak™ was able to solve. The customer specialises in producing and marketing pet food, treats and litter. They are the second-largest pet food company globally and the largest in North America.

THE CHALLENGES The multi-national pet food producer approached UniTrak to help improve the conveyance of their product at its facility.

The company was experiencing problems with a traditional conveyor, where buckets were “popping” out and causing a large amount of wasted product due to spillage. A further consequence of the spillage was that the company was incurring unnecessary clean up and disposal costs.

Besides addressing the spillage problem, they needed a solution that would combine reliability with the gentle handling required for a friable pet food product. The new conveyor would have to service 24 x 7 operations, 50 weeks a year, and be capable of moving just over 6 tons of product per hour, with the material fed from an extruder at 43°C, with 26% moisture content.

CUSTOMIZATION UniTrak invited the company to test their product as they do have free onsite testing facilities, and promise to deliver tailored reliability in the equipment it supplies to our customers.

UniTrak always encourages potential 30

Bulk Solids Today

customers to test their product, thereby ensuring that the optimal equipment solution will always be provided.

Following the success of the test, UniTrak supplied an S-5 open frame TipTrak™ bucket conveyor. UniTrak employed its unique customization process to ensure that the conveyor was tailored to specifically address this facility’s application challenges. Specific features that UniTrak supplied on this TipTrak™ unit included the following: • Stainless steel frame construction suitable for food-grade applications.

• A special bucket assembly with polypropylene buckets and joint strips containing a silver ion to inhibit microbial growth.

• Bolt sleeves.

• Waterproof bearings to support wash-down clean ability.

• Motor drip pans.

• USDA-approved food-grade lubricants.

OUTCOME A unique feature of the TipTrak™ bucket conveyors is the presence of a flexible joint strip between each bucket in the bucket assembly. Unlike conveyor designs which feature overlapping buckets, the TipTrak™ joint strips serve to seamlessly interlock the buckets and prevent any product spillage as the filled buckets travel through the conveyor.

The interlocking buckets in the TipTrak™ supplied to this company greatly reduced the amount of product spillage, there for a reduction in the costs associated with wasted products and the clean-up. In addition with the interlocking buckets, together with UniTrak’s proprietary rubber Belt Chain, assured the gentle handling of friable product required by the customer. The end result is that they have much less product breakage and greater throughput yield.

An important aspect of this project was the installation support provided by UniTrak. This process began immediately after UniTrak had fabricated the S-5 TipTrak™. Prior to shipping the customer’s officials wanted to visit UniTrak to conduct a final inspection of the equipment, to which we was happy to agree too. Once the equipment arrived at the customer’s facility, UniTrak service personnel performed a pre-start inspection following equipment installation. They then conducted training of the customer’s operators and maintenance personnel prior to first production run. The entire service support process ensured a trouble-free delivery together with a successful installation and startup of the TipTrak™.

For more information contact UniTrak Powderflight on: +44 (0)1457 865038 or visit www.unitrakpowderflight.com

POWDER HANDLING

FUNDING NO BARRIER TO POWDER QUALITY OR PROCESS OPTIMISATION WITH HOSOKAWA POWDER CHARACTERISTICS TESTER For companies seeking to improve product quality control, process design or optimisation or wishing to undertake new materials development, the Hosokawa Powder Characteristics Tester PT-X is a ‘must have’ piece of laboratory equipment that is now a ‘can have’ essential; thanks to Hosokawa’s no deposit, fixed payment funding option.

I

dentification and understanding of individual powder characteristics is key to meeting the manufacturing challenge and market demand for efficient, repeatable and high specification powder production and design of powder handling and processing systems.

The renowned Powder Tester remains the laboratory unit of choice for easy determination of powder characteristics and their critical effects on processing activities and with Hosokawa’s new Asset Funding for Business scheme it can be available without budget or funding delays.

Capable of measuring Angle of Repose, Compressibility, Angle of Spatula, Cohesion, Angle of Fall, Dispersibility and Angle of Difference plus three auxiliary values, Aerated Bulk Density, Packed Bulk Density and Uniformity, the Hosokawa Powder Characteristics Tester is widely used across the pharmaceutical, chemical, food and other industries to evaluate flowability and floodability of dry powder solids.

Examples of popular use include: accurate determination of flowability which would effect mixing speeds and an understanding of the critical discharge flow to prevent product bridging on discharge from a vessel or the influence of moisture content on flowability.

The easy to use PT-X features, clear visual displays, operator friendly software which speeds up analysis time and reduced operator intervention for increased accuracy and repeatability.

The compact, table top unit comes complete with integrated HEPA

filter for protection from dust exposure. A vacuum cleaner is also available as is a specially designed feeder for accurate sampling.

Hosokawa’s new, help-to-buy funding gives processors and system manufacturers immediate access to the latest Powder Characteristics Tester PT-X and the benefits of product and process improvement that deliver speedy pay back potential and opportunities for business growth, development or diversity.

Tel: +44 (0) 1928 755100 Fax:+44 (0) 1928 714325 Email: info@hmluk.hosokawa.com www.hosokawa.co.uk Bulk Solids Today

31

DUST CONTROL & EXPLOSION PROTECTION

WHY DO YOU NEED DUST TESTING? Kevin Spiess of BS&B Safety Systems WHAT IS DUST TESTING? In industries that handle or store organic materials for processing, there is always a risk of dust explosions occurring.

A myriad of powdered or ground organic materials ranging from carbon to milk powder are key constituents for ignition and fuelling of ensuing primary explosions within process facilities. Taking every precaution to ensure that such explosions don’t happen is of paramount importance for the protection of personnel, equipment and facilities.

Before installing any explosion protection equipment, it is imperative to understand what kind of dust you are protecting against; they all have different flammable properties.

Laboratory testing a sample of the particular type of dust generated in a factory, will reveal the dust’s performance under specific equipment operations and processes.

HOW DOES IT WORK? Dust testing is designed to identify two key performance characteristics of dust, which in turn influence explosion protection equipment design and their application.

• The first measures maximum pressure of a dust explosion (Pmax in bar) • The second identifies the speed of the rise in explosive pressure (KSt in m/sec) Different types of dust have different particle sizes, properties, ignition temperatures, and ignition sources, from each other.

Dusts are given explosion severity classifications; St1 to St3. ‘Not specified’, means the material is non-explosive and St3 is the most explosive type of material.

Testing under laboratory conditions will tell you what St class your dust is, based on its KSt value. It also discloses the dust’s performance when subjected to certain processes; for example, is it being milled, ground, poured or dried? While being subjected to these processes, what is its Minimum Ignition Temperature (MIT)?

In other words, what temperature will the dust withstand before it becomes an ignition risk?

WHY WOULD YOU USE IT? In the UK and Europe, there is a requirement to identify any potentially explosive substances in the workplace. In the UK, this requirement is governed by the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). DSEAR classifies dangerous substances as those used or present at work that could, without adequate controls, cause harm as a result of a fire or explosion.

In Europe, ATEX is the common name given to two European directives that specify what controls employers should use to prevent explosion risks, which are divided into danger ‘zones’.

Both DSEAR and ATEX recognise dusts as explosive risks.

Dust testing determines which kind of explosion protection you should use for optimum performance. For example, do you need spark detection, chemical suppression and isolation or relief 32

Bulk Solids Today

venting? It’s important to know for sure what kind of protective measure counteracts the type of dust your factory generates. Because dusts have different explosive properties, they are often handled and stored in different ways and locations. The protective measures in each location will be tailored to meet the associated risk.

Always engage an explosion protection consultant to advise on the best protective solutions for your factory.

DUST CONTROL & EXPLOSION PROTECTION

HOW ADVANCED IS IT? Laboratory dust testing can be extremely thorough, sometimes demanding hundreds of process test methods to ascertain the full spectrum of performance characteristics of different dusts.

This includes the careful testing of toxic dusts, which pose a high health and safety risk in some industries. The direct exposure of personnel to toxic dusts is almost as dangerous as the threat of a dust explosion itself.

IS IT SAFER THAN OTHER METHODS OF EXPLOSION PROTECTION? Dust testing isn’t strictly a method of explosion protection; however, its benefit is found in the ability to make explosion protection methods perform at their best. By matching the type

of dust generated with the most appropriate protection method to withstand its effects, optimal protection is achieved. This only succeeds if dust testing and identification under laboratory conditions is carried out.

HOW DOES IT ENHANCE SOLIDS AND BULK HANDLING AND PRODUCTION? Apart from the obvious safety benefits, dust testing offers a significant cost benefit to factory owners. If you decide to invest in advanced explosion protection equipment without conducting a factory survey and dust testing service, there’s a risk that your equipment won’t work properly. In the worst case, it won’t protect your staff and equipment from an explosion. Understanding the nature of your dust is key to getting the best performance out of your equipment.

To find out more: www.bsbipd.com.

Bulk Solids Today

33

BUYERS GUIDE Aero Mechanical Conveyors

Conveyors & Elevators

Mixers & Blenders

“Often copied NEVER matched�

Suppliers of the Original EnteconŽ Aero Mechanical Conveyors Other Products: • Sack Openers • FIBC Fill / Discharge Tip or Automatic • Pneumatic Conveyors

Sales office for UK & ROI: SGH Equipment - EnteconÂŽ Agent

Tel / Fax: 01270 651611

E: sales@sghequipment.co.uk • www.sghequipment.co.uk

Bulk Storage & Handling

MANUFACTURERS OF SILOS, TANKS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS Redbrook, Barnsley S75 1HR Tel: 01226 730037 Fax: 01226 730066 Email: info@eb-equipment.com Web: www.eb-equipment.com

Bulk handling with complete confidence Designers and UK manufacturers of:

Dynamic Air Ltd. Milton Keynes, England

+44 (0) 1908 622344 www.dynamicair.com

• Bucket elevators • Chain & flight conveyors • Screw conveyors & bin dischargers • Belt conveyors

www.perryengineering.com Tel: 01404 891400 Fax: 01404 891402

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Tuf-Lok (UK) +44 (0) 1706 822512 www.tuflok.com

*Accurate automatic filling by weight *Fills Bags/sacks/drums/kegs *Dust tight system *Easy clean facility *Recipe system for different pack sizes *Rapid fill option

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Web: www.processlink.co.uk

FIBC / Big Bag Filling Powder Handling Specialists

FIBC/Big Bag Filling

Dust Tight

*Controlled Feed System *Filling by Weight *Auto loop release *Dust Tight Inflatable Seal *Compaction for improved fill *Adjustable frame for various bag sizes

Web: www.processlink.co.uk Tel: 01608 662878

Remote Silo Monitoring

FIBC Dischargers Powder Handling Specialists

NEW Patented Varicone

FIBC/Big Bag Discharging

To process

*Automatic Agitated Discharge *Dust Tight Connection *Control Feed System *Discharge by Weight *Load by Hoist or Fork Lift *Adjustable frame for different Bag sizes

Web: www.processlink.co.uk Tel: 01608 662878

34

Bulk Solids Today

Tel: 01608 662878

BUYERS GUIDE Sieves & Sifters Cont’d

Sack Filling

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Manufacturers of semi/fully automatic weighing and filling machines into valve/open mouth sacks.

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Screeners

Vibratory & centrifugal Solids/solids or liquid/solids separations Standard and custom designs Industrial, food, pharm. designs

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS

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Vacuum Cleaning

AJAX

Farleygreene 23 Hosokawa Micron

7

NORD 17 Posi-flate 15 Primasonics 11

Screw Feeders, Mixers & IBC Systems

Process Link

19

Ajax Equipment Ltd

RDS 21

Tel: 01204 386723 Fax: 01204 363706 www.ajax.co.uk email: solids@ajax.co.uk

Sieves & Sifters

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Tuf-lok 21 Valves

22/10/2013 14:56:57

Unitrak Powderflight 27 VEGA 36

Posi-flate Milton Keynes England +44 (0) 1908 622366

Vortex Valves

5

www.posiflate.com

Intermodal dry bulk logistics for polymers, chemicals & minerals Cost effective Environmental savings Reduced C02 emissions

www.InterBulkGroup.com

InterBulk GROUP

Bulk Solids Today

35

Dust and buildup on the antenna? No problem!

The future is 80 GHz: a new generation of radar level sensors

VEGAPULSÂ 69 is designed specifically for level measurement of bulk solids.

Even in dusty conditions, it always provides precise readings. Dust in the silo or buildup on the antenna have no effect.

This radar sensor also features unrivalled focusing at a frequency of 80Â GHz. Simply world-class! www.vega.com/radar