The Kansas State University (KSU) Bulk Solids Innovation Center is offering a new short course focused on design, storage and flow with a renowned international industry expert serving as the lead lecturer.

Richard Farnish, a senior research fellow, consultant, engineer, and professor with the Wolfson Centre at the University of Greenwich, in Chatham, North Kent, England, will help instruct a three-day course at the center titled, "Storage and Flow of Powders and Bulk Solids." The course runs November 8-10 and will educate participants on: designing bins, hoppers, chutes, and feeders; understanding flow properties and problems for powders and bulk solids; and implementing trouble-shooting procedures related to flow problems.

"It is an honor to host Mr. Farnish as our lead instructor during the November course offering because he brings with him expertise that spans many decades from around the world," said John Lawrence, research director of the KSU Bulk Solids Innovation Center. "Richard excels specifically in problem-solving bulk solids handling from the shape and design of the hopper to aeration considerations and flow aids. Both his depth of knowledge and reputation will be a valuable asset to anyone who attends."

Farnish, along with the other particle technology experts who are teaching, will utilize the facility's full-scale test laboratory for group exercises so participants can apply the course material in a realistic setting. These practical experiments include flow property testing, material characterization testing, storage containers design and flow of bulk solids in different sized hoppers.

Professionals who are involved with the plastics, chemical, mineral, food, grain, and feed or pharmaceutical industries are encouraged to attend. The course costs $1500 per participant and is designed for both new employees who need an introduction to the bulk solids arena as well as those who are seeking to develop their knowledge and experience. Registration and additional course information can be found at bulk-solids.k-state.edu/profdev/flow.html.

The Kansas State University Bulk Solids Innovation Center – opened in May 2015 – is a 13,000-sq-ft space used to study the science and understanding of bulk solids materials handling within undergraduate education, professional development, and industry research. The vast amenities and offerings of the facility make it the only one of its kind in North America.

For additional inquiries about the center and its capabilities, contact Lawrence at [email protected] or 785-829-1110.