Editor's Choice 2022

Ductless Balance Enclosures
PowderSafe Type A ductless balance enclosures are now available in a 24-in.-wide model. In addition to the 32- and 48-in.-wide models, the AC705 24-in.-wide model allows for a smaller work area that is ideal for restricted lab bench space. Each enclosure comes standard with HEPA filtration to contain particulate, while protecting the operator from exposure. A mini-helic air flow gauge and HEPA filter change indicator light are also standard. The enclosures are manufactured in the U.S. and are shipped fully assembled. The installed HEPA filtration in each enclosure is leak-tested prior to shipment making it ready for use upon arrival without on-site certification. AirClean Systems, Raleigh, NC 800-849-0472 www.aircleansystems.com

Dual Control Bulk Box Emptying
Maguire has eliminated downtime for changing from an empty bulk resin box to a full one by developing a dual control system for its Sweeper, a device that completely empties containers without wasting operator time or resorting to cumbersome box tilters. Now available worldwide, the Sweeper can be supplied in a size that accommodates European-style octobins, which hold 1000 kg of resin. Maguire also offers its original model, sized for Gaylord boxes that hold 1000 to 1500 lb, in two versions that accommodate vacuum line hoses with 1.5- and 2.5-in. diameters, respectively. The larger octobin-sized model accommodates 64-mm hoses. The key component in the new system for reducing changeover downtime is a dual control that automatically switches from a Sweeper in an empty box to a second Sweeper in an adjacent full one. The Sweepers are interconnected by means of a diverter valve. Once the switch takes place, the operator can replace the empty box without an interruption in the transfer of resin to the processing machine or dryer. Maguire Products Inc., Aston, PA 610-459-4300 www.maguire.com

Bulk Bag Material Conditioner
Discharging bulk bags containing material that has solidified, hardened, or agglomerated can cause serious operational bottlenecks. Conditioning and emptying bulk bags can be dangerous if the proper equipment is not utilized. This new, patent-pending system utilizes hydraulically actuated, twin heavy wall tubular steel pivoting conditioning arms. Each conditioning arm features “v-shaped” tubular steel breaker profiles that safely and efficiently return solidified materials to a free-flowing state. A rotary lift table positions the bulk bag for complete material conditioning on all sides of the bulk bag, as well as the top and bottom. The unit features an ultra-compact footprint and machine guarding for operator safety. Material Transfer and Storage Inc., Allegan, MI 800-836-7068 www.materialtransfer.com

Dry Chemical Vacuum Pumps
The CXS dry pump range delivers high vacuum performance in harsh chemical, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical processes. The pumps feature cutting-edge tapered screw technology, are simple to install and use, are environmentally friendly, and provide improved solids handling. They require minimal maintenance. The pumps provide fast pump down and give ultimate vacuum down to 10-3 mbar, which results in optimum performance in a variety of applications such as distillation, drying, evaporation, reactor service, house vacuum, solvent recovery, crystallization, and filtration. The pumps are independently certified for use in hazardous environments to ensure safe pumping of flammable gases. They also pump corrosive gases without corroding. Edwards, Tewksbury, MA 800-848-9800 www.edwardsvacuum.com

Rotary Airlock Feeders
The Kwik-Klean series of rotary airlock feeders permits fast and simple disassembly/reassembly for quick cleaning, inspection, or maintenance without the use of tools or removal from service. This means the feeders can be thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and inspected in a minimum amount of time, thereby reducing downtime and increasing system production. By backing out the hand tightened fasteners that secure the end plate to the body, the operator can quickly remove the end plate and rotor and expose the entire housing interior. Reassembly without tools is accomplished in minutes. Internal clearances are automatically re-established every time. This feature is important where sanitary service and frequent cleaning are required to prevent contamination. It is ideal for batch mixing systems such as those handling different colored resins or paint pigments that demand regular cleaning between cycles. The Level IV Kwik-Klean feeder is furnished in 304 or 316 stainless steel, with internally polished product contact surfaces, Teflon shaft seals, and other considerations for food, dairy, and pharmaceutical plants. Wm. W. Meyer & Sons Inc., Libertyville, IL 847-918-0111 www.rotaryvalve.com