Project Scope

Automated Bulk Material Mixing System Produces Highly Homogeneous Blends; Virtually Eliminating Production Scrap

Designed specifically for fully automated introduction, transfer, mixing, and blending of multiple, dry bulk materials; this NBE integrated mixing project produces such homogeneous blends that downstream production scrap is virtually eliminated.

Project-Specific Engineering:

The NBE lift-and-seal gaylord discharge system, engineered for the specific requirements of this project, receives into the lift carriage gaylord cartons on wooden pallets. To prevent the introduction to the product stream of contaminants from the pallet or exterior surfaces of the gaylord, the NBE lift carriage automatically centers the gaylord in the carriage then raises and seals the gaylord up to the custom, wide-flanged discharge hood. The NBE discharge hood protects product inside the gaylord from external contaminants while also working to prevent pallet contaminants from falling into the open-top receiving bin. Within the mixer, infeed scoop blades at the base of the large-diameter mix auger pull materials into a heavy-gauge mixing tube. Inside the mixing tube the mix auger blends materials while lifting that blended material to the top of the mix tube. At the top of the mix tube, broad-throw dispersion paddles on the mix auger spread mixed material across the top of the bulk material within the mixer. This mix cycle continues until the material reaches a homogeneous and consistent blend, appropriate for supply to downstream process equipment.

Project Performance:

NBE Integrated automation centralizes system control, communication, monitoring, and reporting to a single, UL listed HMI, designed and built by NBE. Rigorous NBE risk assessment procedures work to prevent hazards to those who operate and maintain the equipment, while identifying improvements in physical ergonomics and equipment access points. NBE expertise in application-appropriate codes, standards, and regulations ensured system compliance at start-up.