SPIROFLOW TAKES NEW ANGLE WITH EQUIPMENT TO TACKLE DUST

Minimising dust contamination when filling and shifting millions of tonnes of powdered ingredients through a factory is challenging for manufacturers, but there is innovative new equipment now available from Spiroflow Ltd. Initially developed for the handling of food and pharmaceutical ingredients, the T2 Angled Bulk Bag (FIBC) Discharger provides an air-tight operation which empties product with the minimum of residue and has angled framework, not horizontal flat surfaces, reducing settlement and saving time on cleaning. This latest equipment from Spiroflow is suited for a range of materials ranging from baby formula milk, sugar and flour to pharmaceutical powders and granules. Its unique construction stops fine dust sticking to any part of the discharger resulting in improved hygiene. Unveiled for the first time by Spiroflow to great interest from visitors at this year’s Foodex and Interpack shows, it is probably the first kit of its kind that has been especially designed in the UK to help avoid issues caused by dust residue. Dust in a factory environment can prove hazardous so manufacturers must have systems and equipment in place that adhere to the European Union’s ATEX Directive 1999/92/E, which has been implemented by the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) act in the UK. These regulations require that employers classify places where explosive atmospheres are likely to occur – such as in the form of combustible dust generated by processes such as flour milling and sugar grinding – and must implement protective measures and select appropriate equipment for use in those environments. Spiroflow’s world-leading products for conveying and bulk handling are designed and built to USDA standard and meet regulatory requirements for transporting and handling powders and other materials in potentially hazardous conditions. The company offers the food and pharmaceutical sectors innovative equipment that will help to eliminate material flow problems and dust contamination that can also lead to potentially dangerous blockages in factory piping or tubing applications. In addition to bulk bag dischargers, Spiroflow manufacturers bin activators, Flexible Screw Conveyors, Aero Mechanical Conveyors, Tubular Cable and Chain Drag Conveyors, Vacuum Conveyors, Bulk Bag Fillers, Ingredients Handling and Weighing Systems. The company’s technical and engineering expertise has led to it developing an international reputation for an unrivalled range of products with state-of-the-art control systems.