Liquid addition for IBC blending
Until now, if a powder blend required liquid addition, it was necessary to use a fixed mixer, which Matcon said can be difficult and time consuming to clean between recipe changeovers.
The system works by automatically injecting one controlled liquid ‘shot’ per rotation directly into the powder mix enclosed in the Matcon IBC during its blending cycle, without any need for manual intervention or to open the blending vessel. This ensures even dispersion of liquids to a powder recipe during the mixing process, preventing lumps from forming.
Designed for manufacturers that need to deliver additions of liquids from five to 150 liters, Matcon said the new flexible and hygienic liquid addition system reduces manual handling requirements within the process and improves containment, further enhancing the benefits of IBC blending.
The system consists of a free-standing pillar supporting a reciprocating pump and weight monitoring system, onto which a liquid tank is mounted. These connect to the IBC via the Matcon Liquid Additions Intensifier using tri-clamped hoses and a rotary coupling.
To minimize downtime for cleaning, operators can swap out parts without the need for additional tooling, keeping the blender in production, further improving the efficiency and throughput of a production facility.
The system also includes CIP flushing for neutral oils or cleaning fluids.
