The International Powder & Bulk Solids Conference and Exhibition will be held from May 5 – 8 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. This leading event is intended for engineers and managers who process, handle, package, transport, test and store dry particulate matter and bulk solids from many industries, including food, mining, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, plastics and more. This show will be a part of the PTXi International Convention, which will also include the ChemProcess, PharmaProcess, and ProcessPack exhibitions.
The educational conference will feature educational sessions on a variety of topics related to bulk solids handling. Below, find a selection of services and products that will be seen at the show. For more information, please visit www.powdershow.com.
This firm has expanded its line of Com-paK Plus tri-lobe blower packages with two units that feature quieter operation. The CB 110 and CB 130C units (photo) deliver up to 434 ft 3 /min in pressures up to 15 psig and vacuum up to 15 in. Hg. The new CB units have a smaller footprint than previous models. They include a removable front panel for easy access and a simplified check valve for customization on site, as well as a new angled inlet filter for quicker cartridge changes. — Kaeser Compressors, Fredericksburg, Va.
Booth 2507
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-331
The new Broken-Cable Series of its Model RS Series of cable-operated safety stop switches (photo) incorporates a detection device that signals whenever the actuation cable is severed or pulled. Known as the Model RSB, this control is designed to act as an emergency stop for conveyors and other moving machinery. It has an extension spring that maintains constant tension on the pull cable. The operating handle is held in the center vertical position with the internal switch in a normally closed condition. If the cable is pulled or breaks, the handle rotates to release the switch lever. — Conveyor Components Co., Croswell, Mich.
Booth 2315
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-332
Insitec particle characterization systems (photo) are designed for realtime process measurement. For dry-powder analysis, the lightweight Insitec Voyager can be operated at- or online, providing realtime analysis. For wet processes, on the other hand, the flexible design of the Insitec LPS enables the system to be tailored for specific process applications. Incorporating a sampler, pre-diluter, cascade diluter and measurement cell, the Insitec LPS is a fully automated system for measurement of almost any wet stream. — Malvern Instruments, Bedfordshire, U.K.
Booth 2415
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-333
Premium X-treme and X-treme Ultra harnesses (photo) are designed for comfort, safety, ease-of-use and durability. The comfort back pad keeps the harness in a vest-style shape for no-hassle donning. The back and leg pads are made of an open cell foam material that allows for air circulation to keep the worker dry and comfortable all day. Connection points include large dorsal D-ring for easy attachment to fall-arrest systems, two front web loops for vertical and rescue applications and optional hip D-rings for work positioning. Harnesses are available in high-visibility or all-black webbing. — Hy-Safe Technology, Union Grove, Wis.
Booth 2744
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-334
Featuring a screwless feeding mechanism, the Micro Cone feeder (photo) accurately doses free-flowing color, masterbatch or additives into a blending system or directly in the process screw of an extruder. Utilizing an induced-flow rotating tube/cone, the Micro Cone Feeder doses down to a few granules at a time with a feed rate range of 0.2 – 2 dm 3 /h. An extension tip allows the feeder to feed volumes as low as 0.1 dm 3. The minimum dispersive rate is approximately 2 pellets/s. For easy maintenance and cleanability, this unit has no pockets or screws, and has a feeder housing that swings open for fast material change. — K-Tron, Pitman, N.J.
Booth 1328
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-335
The OptimaBlend Fluidizing Paddle Blender (photo) is a balance of mixing speed and efficiency with low equipment cost and consumed power. Traditional ribbon-blender applications will benefit from increased capacity in the same space, as well as mixing that occurs five times faster. Regardless of a large range of particle size, shape or density, the OptimaBlend delivers homogenous mixes. Units are available in carbon steel, stainless steel and sanitary construction for a wide variety of solids-to-solid and solids-to-liquid blending applications. — American Process Systems, O’Fallon, Mo.
Booth 3541
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-336
The Quantum Series Wye Line Diverters (photo) are engineered to handle dry bulk solids in dilute phase pneumatic conveying systems with vacuum or positive pressures up to 1 bar. Typical trouble spots in conventional diverters are eliminated with this series of diverters, which provide superior sealing, low installation weight, fast inline maintenance, and an abrasion-resistant design for long-term, reliable service, according to the manufacturer. — Vortex Valves North America, Salina, Kans.
Booth 3645
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-337
Non-Clogging pressure transmitters (photo, p. 34D-2) are for all types of dust collectors, baghouses and powder processes. Designed as a reliable alternative to typical tube-style gauges that clog, these pressure transmitters feature a large, ceramic diaphragm that is durable and resists clogging. Both differential and static configurations are available in ranges to as low as 0 – 10 in. H 2 O. A 4 – 20-mA output is provided from the all stainless-steel, heavy-duty package. — FilterSense, Beverly, Mass.
Booth 1350
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-338
The Gladiator Smart Admittance Level Switch (photo) is designed to detect the level of liquid, slurry or powder in a tank or vessel by measuring the capacitance between a probe and the wall of the container. With the ability to monitor materials with a wide range of dielectric constants, the Gladiator can be used with a large variety of liquids, slurries and powders. The Gladiator communicates using modbus, HART or Profibus protocols. A remote amplifier can be positioned up to 500 m away from the unit. — Hawk Measurement America, Middleton, Mass.
Booth 5324
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-339
For metering a variety of powders, granules, chips, flakes and fibers, this company now offers the Mechatron Coni-Steel Vibro Feeder (photo). With a maintenance-free feed chute, dry solid materials are gently metered for applications in the plastics, food chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Volumetric and gravimetric configurations of the feeder are available with complete disassembly from the non-process side for easy cleaning and maintenance. The Mechatron feeder is capable of accuracies greater than ±0.5% and feed rates from 0.01 to 53 ft 3 /h. — Schenck AccuRate, Whitewater, Wis.
Booth 1055
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-340
The MCT360 NIR Transmitter (photo, p. 34D-5) was designed in response to the need for a high-quality sensor at an economical price. The MCT360 can operate either on its own or in a multi-point network and is able to make three near infrared (NIR) constituent measurements with a fourth product temperature measurement simultaneously. Used in a wide variety of applications throughout the powder and bulk solids industry, the MCT360 provides offline accuracy under online operating conditions. — Process Sensors Corp., Millford, Mass.
Booth 2719
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-341
The CUB Railcar Mover (photo) is an electro-mechanical machine designed to move single railcars or groups of cars. The CUB moves along a steel runway utilizing two traveling carriage assemblies that ride on anti-friction bearings. Two pivoting arms securely capture the railcar truck frame to move the cars. A variable speed motor drive powers a chain and sprocket arrangement that allows the CUB to travel in a swift bi-directional manner. Safe, easy to install and easy to operate, the CUB is ideal for small to mid-sized railcar loading, unloading and repositioning applications. — Heyl & Patterson, Inc., Pittsburgh, Pa.
Booth 3648
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-342
This company will display the QA24 Inline and the Tru-Balance sifter/screener. For pressure or vacuum pneumatic conveying systems, the QA24 provides an economical quality assurance and HACCP solution for operations with moderate production volumes. For gravity flow applications, the stainless-steel Tru-Balance drive is designed for high-capacity sifting or screening applications. Both units feature easy access for inspection and maintenance, pneumatic sieve-compression system, and the reliable Tru-Balance drive that provides a gentle gyratory sifting motion. — Great Western Manufacturing, Leavenworth, Kans.
Booth 2649
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-343
The SheaveMaster now features a Greenline laser for optimum visibility under bright sunlight conditions, which is ideal for outdoor applications. The waterproof SheaveMaster Greenline (photo) mounts magnetically to the face of a pulley. A permanently calibrated green laser beam fans out, striking three magnetic targets on the opposite pulley and measures angular, offset and twist misalignment of the drive. It can be used equally well on chain-driven sprockets. — Ludeca, Inc., Doral, Fla.
Booth 2621
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-344
The CE-60 (photo) is the latest offering in this new line of durable, injection-molded-plastic housed vibrators. The housing is an alternative to steel and cast-iron housings that can become corroded easily. In addition to the durable, corrosion-resistant housing, the CE-60 vibrator features stainless-steel hardware and is completely enclosed to withstand fumes and other air-quality issues. Producing up to 100 lb of centrifugal force at 3,600 vibrations/min, this unit is quiet and can be operated continuously. — Vibco Vibrators, Wyoming, R.I.
Booth 2331, 5206
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-345
The Material Master bulk bag material conditioner (photo, p. 34D-6) utilizes hydraulically actuated conditioning arms and a rotary lift table to quickly, safely and efficiently return even the most problematic hardened materials to a manageable, free-flowing state. The operator loads the bulk bag to be conditioned into the unit via forklift and activates the PLC-controlled automatic conditioning sequence. The arms penetrate deeply into the materials for more effective results than traditional vertical compression plates, while the lift table rotates and positions the bulk bag for complete material conditioning. — Material Transfer, Allegan, Mich.
Booth 3917
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-346
Engineered to remove medium and fine ferrous contaminants from dry, free-flowing products under gravity flow, the Drawer Magnets (photo) protect processing machinery and improve product purity. Multiple staggered rows provide maximum contact area for product flow. As product flows through the stainless-steel housing, it cascades over the staggered rows of magnetic tubes. Ferrous contaminants are pulled to the surface of the magnets where they move to the underside of the tube to prevent washoff. — Puritan Magnetics, Inc., Oxford, Mich.
Booth 2704
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-347
The latest in Meco custom seal design includes seals fitted for ATEX or clean-in-place service and performance up to 1,000 ft 2 /m of shaft speed on dry-running shafts. Custom-engineered to each application, these seals accommodate high shaft run-out on vertical, inclined or horizontal shafts of 1 – 20-in. dia. Seal designs are available fully-split and use very low purge gas flow rates. — Woodex Bearing Company, Inc., Georgetown, Maine
Booth 2531
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-348
For quiet pneumatic conveying and chemical processing, the Q Series line of rotary positive-displacement blowers (photo) provides high pressure of 18 psi at a high efficiency. They offer flow up to 3,400 ft 3 /min at speeds of up to 4,800 rpm. Precision helical gears keyed to rotor shafts provide quiet operation, while double row ball bearings allow for added durability. Combination piston ring air-gas and oil-labyrinth seals are fitted as standard. — Tuthill, Springfield, Mo.
Booth 2237
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-349
The Flex-V reclosable explosion vent (photo) is designed to protect industrial process equipment from the damaging effects of dust and gas explosions. Unlike traditional venting, the Flex-V panel returns to its original position at the end of its venting process, restoring about 90% of the vent-relief area. With the Fire Limiting Explosion Vent, the affected space becomes re-confined, allowing fire-fighting agents, such as carbon dioxide and watermist systems, to control fires more effectively. The shortened venting process also reduces the risk of secondary explosions. This unit can also open inward, which offers protection against vessel collapse due to vacuum pressure. — Fike, Blue Springs, Mo.
Booth 2311
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-350
This new online water activity control capability is an optional addition to this company’s Delta T moisture control system (photo), enabling moisture content to be maximized without subjecting product to the growth of mold or other harmful microorganisms. According to the manufacturer, this new option achieves significant improvements in production rate, energy savings, product quality and safety. The Delta T is based on a moisture sensor that uses two temperature sensors and a mathematical model. It is compatible with products such as petfood, animal feed, grain products, gluten, starch and foods. — Drying Technology, Inc., Silsbee, Tex.
Booth 2518
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-351
According to this firm, the induction of the Ultra 600 hardened piping systems can offer 4 – 6 times the longevity of mild steel. After a steel pipe of a hardenable chemistry has been induction-heated and water-quenched on its inner wall, the pipe has an increased inner-wall abrasion resistance, yet an outer wall that resists impact. Diameters are available up to 40 in., with or without flanges, and the induction bending system allows bending to 180 deg for pipe and tubes from 2.5 – 25 in. — Ultra Tech Pipe, Port Washington, Wis.
Booth 2029
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-352
This firm will display the newly developed range of Flexible Silos. The high-strength, durable polyester fabric containers are supported on a steel frame capable of storing a few cubic yards up to 200 cubic yards and 400 ton in weight of dry bulk-solid materials. The Flexible Silos can be mobile or stationary, tailor-made to suit any indoor or weatherproof location and designed to connect to any of this firm’s range of conveyors. — Spiroflow Systems, Inc., Charlotte, N.C.
Booth 2132
Water softeners are needed in pretreatment stages for pure-water generators, but they also harbor risks: the ionic-exchange resins offer large surface areas for the growth of microorganisms. A safe and simple solution to this problem is the germ-reducing regeneration tablets, Sanisal P (photo). The tablets are poured into the salt or brine tank of water softener, and its active substance is released, entering the water softener during regeneration. Dead germs and any residue are then flushed out of the softener during the rinse stages. Regeneration salts are no longer needed, and, in contrast to hot-water sanitation, no energy is required. — Christ Water Technology Group, Aesch, Switzerland
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-390
The performance range of the Allub RUV vertically immersed screw pump (photo) has been expanded, with the maximum capacity boosted by 30% or more to 1,300 L/min. The pump is suitable for any industry segment where mineral-based and synthetic lube oil, hydraulic oil and similar media must be moved efficiently. The three-screw, self-priming pump is designed for vertical installation in the oil container at depths between 325 and 1,600 mm, depending on the size of the pump and motor. The Series now covers a capacity range from 30 to 1,300 L/min, with maximum pressure of 16 bar. — AllweilerAG, Radolfzell, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-391
The Rosemount 702 Discrete Wireless Transmitter (photo) is the latest addition to this firm’s Smart Wireless solutions family. The 702 transmitter installs and commissions quickly, and provides users with a cost-effective way to access data from the hundreds of discrete points at process plants that are not connected to the control system. The unit supports a variety of non-powered switch types, with single or dual-channel capacity, and is approved for use in hazardous areas. Fully compatible with existing Smart Wireless networks, the 702 provides HART diagnostic data, 7 – 15 yr SmartPower battery life, and reliable and secure performance, says the firm. — Emerson Process Management, Bredbury, Stockport, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-392
Two independent Pt100/TC sensors can now be connected to the new T32.XS temperature transmitter (photo). The transmitter also offers enhanced diagnostics capabilities with its integrated drift detection combined with extended error signaling. Corrosion monitoring in accordance with Namur NE89 is also included. The head-mounting transmitter comes with the accepted size, but with additional terminals for the HART communication. — WIKA Alexander Wiegand GmbH & Co. KG, Klingenberg, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-393
The Industrial Microhydraulic (IMH) range of cartridge screens provide a low-cost, effective "last-chance" filtration barrier for fluid-control components. The latest additions to the range are the high-pressure cartridge screens, which are rated for a minimum burst pressure of 25 MPa (5,000 psi). The screens are made of stainless-steel woven mesh and bonded together by a proprietary process that ensures integrity and long life. They are available in diameters of 5.5, 8, 10 and 12 mm. — Lee Products Ltd., Gerrards Cross, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-394
This new corrosion-resistant, submersible level probe (SLP; photo) has been developed to allow trouble-free operation in tasks ranging from level measurement in single tanks to multiple-point level data gathering in high-value commodity storage facilities. Available in both gauge and absolute versions, the probe requires just a 10-V d.c., 2-mA power supply. The SLP is hermetically sealed using corrosion-resistant plastic materials. It can measure levels up to 70 m H2O, to an accuracy of 0.5% in operating environments from –40 to 80°C. — GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies, Billerica, Mass.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-395
This firm has introduced its next-generation, intrinsic-safety isolators, the backplane-mounted MTL4500 and DIN-rail mounted MTL550 (photo) Series. Both Series utilize the company’s One-Core technology, incorporating advanced circuit design, a common set of components and innovative transformer construction. The isolator modules achieve a "significant" reduction in power consumption while increasing channel-packing densities, says the manufacturer. Other features include three-port isolation, low power dissipation and a quick install-release mechanism. The 4500 is designed for project-oriented applications, such as distributed control systems, emergency shutdown systems, and fire and gas monitoring; the DIN-mounted version meets the needs of application-focused projects, ranging from single-instrument loops to fully equipped cabinets. — MTL Instruments Group Plc., Luton, U.K
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-396
The growing demand for biodiesel has also created an increased demand for fatty alcohol pastilles produced by the Rotoform process, according to this manufacturer. One such installation where both biodiesel and fatty alcohols are produced is the large complex recently completed for Thai Oleochemicals and Thai Fatty Alcohols Co. (Map Ta Phut, Thailand), which produces 100,000 ton/yr of liquid fatty alcohol — as much as 15% of which needs to be converted into solid pastilles to ease handling, storage and transportation. Based around a 25-m long, 1,500-mm wide steel belt cooler, the Rotoform system (photo) combines under-belt water-spray cooling with air cooling on the upper side to deliver a total capacity of 2.5 ton/h. — Sandvik Process Systems, Fellbach, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-397
Two new options are now available for the Parsum IPP-70 inline particle-size measurement probe (photo), which is used for realtime monitoring and control of granulation, coating and spray-drying processes. The first option allows for the provision of IQ/OQ (installation and operational qualification) documentation, together with a verification kit for checking measurement accuracy. The second option is a unit with highly polished contact surfaces, and includes material traceability documentation. Option 2 is particularly suitable for fouling duties and applications requiring high levels of hygiene. — Malvern Instruments, Ltd., Malvern, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-398
This bare-wire thermocouple (photo) has a measuring point with diameter of only a few microns. As a result, the sensor has no effect on the flame temperature and significantly reduces measurement errors by minimizing losses due to radiation and conduction. The thermocouple is particularly suitable for measuring at the heart of flames of burners. The sensor covers a temperature range between 400 and 1,700°C, and the output is via a male LEMO plug. — Pyro-Contrôle, Chauvin Arnoux Group, Meyzieu Cedex, France
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-399
HenaLine (photo) is a complete line of oil-sealed rotary vane pumps that are suitable for both industrial and R&D applications. With pumping speeds of 25 – 1,000 m3/h, the pumps can be used as a stand-alone or a backup pump. Their low operating temperature increases the service life of the oil and eliminates the need for additional water cooling for the pump. Oil mist separator, oil-return system and safety valves are integrated as standard equipment. A gas ballast valve assures pump down of steam and other process vapors. — Pfeiffer Vacuum, GmbH, Asslar, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-400
On-Guard (photo), an acid-alert paint, provides immediate, visual detection of dangerous spray-outs in critical areas in process systems, such as pipe flanges, weld sites and sample ports. Recently introduced into the U.K., On-Guard is a modified alkyd acid indicating paint that has been formulated and patented for industrial applications. The material is applied like any other exterior paint to 4-mm thickness (dry). A primer is also required for raw metal surfaces; otherwise, it can be applied over existing paint. Should acids or acid vapors (pH <3) escape, On-Guard will instantaneously change color from yellow to red (photo), thereby alerting operators to the potential dangers. — Allison Engineering, Basildon, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-401
Automatic inspection for particle and cosmetic defects of pharmaceutical products is state-of-the art in modern production plants, but often, shift supervisors and quality-assurance staff would like to quickly classify what the automatic machine has rejected. The VPE module (photo) has been introduced for this purpose. Using two different types of light and variable rotation speeds, the VPE determines the nature of the defect, providing immediate feedback to the production and filling process. — Seidenader Maschinenbau GmbH, Markt Schwaben, Germany
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-402
The Elam Transonic TI-H cleaners (photo) are heavy-duty, multi-frequency cleaning units available in several sizes up to 180 L. Expanded utility is obtained with dual frequencies (25 and 45 kHz, or 35 and 130 kHz) in a single unit. The lowest frequency is used for coarse particle removal; mid-range frequencies are used to clean grease and oils from hard surfaces; and the highest frequency is used for gentle cleaning of sensitive surfaces, such as electronic parts. The units have three different operation modes: Sweep (for common cleaning tasks), Degas and Normal. — Tovatech LLC, South Orange, N.J.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-403
Built to withstand harsh work environments, the Ti25m and Ti10 (photo, p. 34I-6) thermal imagers are designed as a complete, effective and easy-to-use thermal-imaging solution for routine troubleshooting and maintenance of industrial and electrical equipment. Both versions incorporate IR Fusion, a patent-pending technology that integrates infrared and visual images in full-screen or picture-in-picture views. IR Fusion helps users recognize image details and better identify problem areas by quickly scrolling through the different viewing modes. The devices cover a temperature range of –20 to 350°C (Ti25) and –20 to 250°C (Ti10). — Fluke Corp., Everett, Wash.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-404
The DPVCF vertical pump (photo)was developed to withstand extreme mechanical forces that may occur in some vertical-pump applications (due to thermal expansion of pipes, for example). Two new models are now available, extending the maximum capacity to 58 m3/h over pressure heads from 30 to 245 m. The DPVCF is equipped with a cast-iron pump foot and additional strengthening ribs — extra support of piping to protect the base is no longer necessary. Equipped with a peroxide-cured EPDM elastomers and sleeve O-rings, the pumps can handle temperatures up to 120°C, making them suitable for boiler feed applications. — DP-Pumps, Alphen a/d Rijn, Netherlands
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-405
Designed for use in corrosive environments, the Finnish Thompson DB Series of plastic, magnetic-drive centrifugal pumps (photo) comprise eight new models, which are available in either PP or PVDF. The Series provides flowrates of up to 27 m3/h and heads of up to 27 m. They are available in close-coupled configuration for optimum magnetic alignment, and provide extended dry-running capability when specified with a carbon bushing. Evenly spaced impeller trims enable duty points to be precisely met, and a two-piece impeller design allows the impeller or inner drive magnet to be individually replaced. — Michael Smith Engineers Ltd., Woking, U.K.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-406
Last November, this firm expanded its Axius line of rupture discs to include the Axius SC, which is specifically designed for the stringent sanitary and aseptic requirements of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Free of any indentations or crevices that may trap process contaminants, the SC is designed for most clean-in-place and steam-in-place applications. The reverse-acting rupture disc is the first of as kind to be manufactured without hard tooling. Using the firm’s G2 technology, all discs feature a line of weakness on the dome instead of a score line. There are no stress zones that can fatigue, and no tool marks or indentations on the process side. — Fike, Blue Springs, Mo.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-407
Basket strainers made of Kynar polyvinylidene (PVDF) are now available exclusively from this firm. Plastic strainers previously available were not able to handle corrosive materials, such as halogens and many acids, or temperatures exceeding 220°C. PVDF far outperforms polyvinylchlorides (PVC and cPVC), polypropylene and acetal materials, says the firm. With higher capacity than Y-strainers, these units capture substantial solids, thereby extending the life of expensive downstream equipment. Sizes from 1/2 to 3 in., with a wide variety of connections and mesh screens are available. — Micromold Products, Inc., Yonkers, N.Y.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-408
After recently being granted registration by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the biocides Bellacide 350 (5% active) and 355 (50% active) are now being introduced into the U.S. Used for industrial cooling water and oilfield applications, the new biocides offer a combination of biocidal effectiveness enhanced with "exceptional" biodispersancy to destroy harmful biofilms, says the producer. Studies have shown the biocide to be effective against algae, fungi, and aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, especially sulfate-reducing species. — BWA Water Additives, Atlanta, Ga.
edlinks.chemengonline.com/7371-409
Thanks to a new concept for heating the system, the latest generation of SFXmagnus filtration systems (photo) makes it possible to filter polymer melt even more gently. The completely encapsulated system prevents chemical reactions with oxygen or airborne moisture, and specially designed retaining plates ensure accurate location and sealing of the filter elements, even at a filtration fineness of 10 µm. The drive unit now operates pneumatically instead of hydraulically, thus eliminating the hydraulic power pack; this has lead to a reduction in investment costs by up to 20% compared with the previous design, says the manufacturer. — Gneuß Kunststofftechnik GmbH, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany