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Solids Handling

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Characterize Bulk Solids to Ensure Smooth Flow

To minimize problems associated with handling all types of bulk solids, engineers must adopt a systematic approach to characterizing the flow and mechanical properties of the materials under a variety of operating conditions Bins, hoppers, feeders, and conveyors handle bulk…

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Particle-sizing technology selection

Size range is a defining consideration when it comes to choosing a particle-sizing technology for your product or process. However, whether measuring droplets or powders, on plant or in the laboratory, for quality control (QC) or to troubleshoot – there…

Hopper Design Principles

When hoppers are designed without consideration of the actual materials being handled, problems inevitably arise. Follow this guidance to avoid common solids-handling issues, such as erratic flow and no flow Pivotal work on the development of the theory of bulk…

Combustible Dust Standard Gets a Facelift

While NFPA 652 creates a general set of requirements for mitigating explosion hazards, equipment providers improve offerings to assist with compliance The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA; Washington, D.C.; www.nfpa.prg) recently released the first edition of NFPA 652 Standard on…

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…

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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.…

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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…

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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.…