A company that processes fine powdered metals called on the experts at Eriez to assist it in finding a feeding solution for its challenging application.

3 Min Read
Feeder_ERIEZ.jpg
Image courtesy of Eriez

A company that processes fine powdered metals at a rate of 60 to 1,500 lb/hr, with a bulk density of 250 lb/cu ft and a temperature between 60°F and 100°F, called on the experts at Eriez to assist it in finding a feeding solution for its challenging application.

The application involves material flowing from small hoppers to the vibratory feeder, which is used to maintain a consistent feed to screeners.

“Since the product is very fine, we recommended an Eriez low-frequency, high-deflection (HD) electromagnetic feeder, as it is the optimal choice for handling fine powders,” said Rob Yandrick, Eriez product manager—vibratory/screening.

The model Eriez selected was the HD-36C high-deflection electromagnetic feeder, as it accommodates the changeover to handle numerous products at the plant and enables the tray to be cleaned quickly and hassle-free.

The HD-36C 115-volt drive was supplied with a 5-in.-wide x 24-in.-long 304 stainless steel tray, complete with a quick-release stainless steel cover (including a Lexan view port), a dust collection port, and a downspout outlet. The control furnished with the feeder was a Model G30 HZ NEMA 12 control, which incorporates a digital keypad for control settings and a constant feed rate control, as well as a smart transducer mounted on the tray and wired to the control to maintain a consistent feed rate.

Eriez high-deflection feeders combine a high-amplitude (up to 3/16 in.) motion at a lower operating frequency and the electromagnetic drive for high reliability. This combination of low frequency and electromagnetic operation makes the HD feeders ideal for metering of powders (-100 mesh), leafy, malleable, and slightly sticky products. These types of products are often difficult to feed in a typical electromagnetic feeder.

“After years of research, HD feeders now offer high deflection of up to 3/16 in. and lower frequency (30 cycles/min) to handle finer product such as long-stranded chopped fiberglass, talc, or flour,” said Yandrick. “Even tacky materials such as gummy candies respond well to the feed characteristics of the HD feeders. The HD feeders have throughputs ranging from 150 to 700 cu ft/hr for greater flexibility.”

According to Yandrick, high-deflection feeders are also ideal for fresh shrimp, sliced fruit, carbon black, gummy candy, string carrots, powdered milk, chopped fiberglass, cereal, cherries, spices, lettuce, cement, and more.

HD feeders can handle capacities from 40 to 700 cu ft/hr with feed rates of up to 80 ft/min, which reduces power consumption.

High-deflection feeders are available with a variety of trays—widths 4 to 16 in. and lengths 24 to 60 in. on a single drive. Multiple drive configurations, mild or stainless steel trays, and flat or tubular trays are available.

“Over the years vibratory feeders and conveyors have undergone numerous design changes and upgrades that enhance their role in processing applications such as this one,” Yandrick concluded. “The latest equipment offers increased energy savings, more precise control over material flow, easier maintenance, and a greater variety of options. These newer high deflection (HD) feeders feature faster travel speeds and the ability to handle the most difficult materials.”

Eriez manufactures magnetic lift and separation, metal detection, fluid recycling, flotation, materials feeding, screening, conveying and controlling equipment have application in the process, metalworking, packaging, plastics, rubber, recycling, food, mining, aggregate, textile and power industries through 12 international subsidiaries located on six continents. For more information, call 814-835-6000, email [email protected], or visit www.eriez.com.

 

About the Author(s)

Powder Bulk Solids Staff

Established in 1983, Powder & Bulk Solids (PBS) serves industries that process, handle, and package dry particulate matter, including the food, chemical, and pharmaceutical markets.

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