Chemical Engineering

	Focus On
	Solids Handling

9/11/2025

Controlling Particle Characteristics with Agglomeration
By Carrie Carlson and Chris Kozicki, FEECO

Controlling particle characteristics allows producers to manage product performance, ensure shelf life, regulate downstream processes and more. One technique that is especially useful in controlling particle characteristics is agglomeration (particle size enlargement), which converts powders and fines into granules. There are several different forms of agglomeration — some that utilize extreme pressure to form agglomerates, others that use heat, and so on. Agitation agglomeration utilizes motion, typically along with a liquid binder, to form granules. This technique is also sometimes referred to as wet granulation, pelletizing, or tumble-growth agglomeration. The flexible nature of the agitation agglomeration approach allows producers to achieve a specific set of desired particle characteristics. MORE

Solids' Characteristics and the Drying Process
By Nick Reckinger, FEECO

The ability to efficiently, reliably and consistently dry bulk solids in an industrial setting relies largely on tailoring the dryer’s design to the unique characteristics of the material to be dried. In other words, material characteristics can have a significant impact on the drying process, with the potential to influence factors such as equipment sizing, configuration, retention time and more. As such, material characteristics must be considered during the early dryer design stages. This article looks at essential material characteristics to consider when it comes to two common types of industrial dryers: rotary and fluidized-bed dryers. MORE

High-end solutions for process gases

AERZEN is an experienced partner to the process gas industry and supports applications with sustainable state-of-the-art technologies, a wide range of services, the highest product quality, customised engineering and high-end technological solutions. The blowers and compressors are unbeatable in terms of process reliability, unmatched in operational efficiency and often run for decades without any problems and with minimal maintenance.

Process gas machines are at home in all key industrial applications, even in critical or demanding areas, ensuring an uninterrupted and economical production process. Different designs, sizes and special versions enable application-specific adaptation. All relevant international rules, building regulations or specifications of various industries or acceptance organisations are complied with.

New Web-Exclusive Feature

Beyond the Datasheet: Common Pitfalls in Specifying Pressure-Relief Valves

This article outlines the most frequent mistakes engineers make when specifying pressure relief valves (PRVs) — from misapplying catalog flowrates to overlooking thermal expansion risks in liquid‑filled lines — and offers practical guidance for ensuring that safety valves perform as intended during real‑world plant conditions.

Video: September Editorial Roundup

Watch the latest video from the CE editors to get a preview of the September issue and a look at some business trends in the chemicals sector

September's CPI Bookshelf

The Chemical Engineering team highlights recently published books that may be relevant for professionals working in the chemical process industries. Read more

from our bookstore

Mixing and Blending: Volume 2 — Combining Powders and Bulk Solids

This selection of practical tutorial-style engineering articles provides informative, actionable information for process engineers and other technical professionals throughout the CPI. Several topics discuss different mixer and blender options. Others provide targeted engineering recommendations on how to manage specific safety issues— such as the risk of dust explosions — that can arise when handling powders and other bulk solids.