Solids Handling
Using Laser Diffraction to Characterize Heterogeneous Catalysts
The capabilities of laser diffraction systems go beyond particle-size analysis to also predict a catalyst’s propensity to experience attrition Heterogeneous catalysts, where the catalyst is in solid form, enhance many of the gas- and liquid-phase reactions that underpin common operations…
Solids Discharge: Characterizing Powder and Bulk Solids Behavior
How shear-cell testing provides a basis for predicting flow behavior Powder jams are the once-in-a-month catastrophe that can bring processing operations to a standstill. Whether it’s erratic flow behavior or complete stoppage of solids discharge, the consequence is the same.…
A Pragmatic Approach to Powder Processing
Modern powder-testing methods can offer valuable insights into bulk material behavior and lead to efficient powder-processing solutions Process simulation is a powerful tool for engineers in the chemical process industries (CPI) and one that plays an important role in commercializing…
Measuring Exposures to Aerosols and Dust
Accurate measurements of exposures to aerosols and dusts by plant personnel can be tricky. Here is some help for determining exposures and addressing uncertainties Uncontrolled aerosols (defined as suspensions of fine solid or liquid particles in gaseous media) in the…
Increase Profits in Size-Reduction Plants
Material- and energy-balance models can help to identify potential opportunities The processing of mined minerals in aboveground facilities relies on several energy- intensive unit operations, such as comminution, screening and material transport. Crushing operations typically produce a wide distribution of…
Bulk Solids: Optimizing Screw Conveyors
Despite their apparent simplicity, the complexity of these conveying systems demands proper design and an understanding of the underlying principles Screw conveyors play a major role in a wide variety of industrial operations that involve the handling of bulk solids.…
NanoSampler enables high-throughput sample delivery
Malvern Instruments The new Zetasizer NanoSampler is a versatile, compact, fully automated sample delivery system for this company’s Zetasizer Nano, which is used for nanoparticle and colloid characterization. Delivering precise and reproducible automated sample loading, and accommodating up to 96…
Size reduction for small batches — with containment
Hosokawa Alpine This company has extended its pico line series with the launch of the pico cont, for small-batch size reduction with containment. In the pico cont system, the established pico line platform was replaced by an isolator housing made…
Pneumatic Conveying: Optimal System Design, Operation and Control
Numerous strategies and options for both dilute- and dense-phase conveying systems are presented here Pneumatic conveying is a ubiquitous mode of conveying bulk solids in a wide range of industries, including chemicals, plastics, grain, food, agricultural, mining, power and…
Special tools for palletizing containers
Beumer Group The parallel gripper is a special tool for palletizing cardboard boxes and other dimensionally stable containers with parallel side walls. The essential components are a fixed plate that functions as a limit stop and a pneumatically activated clamping…