Amid the numerous product recalls and reports warning consumers about breaches in safety, efficiency and cleanliness in food processing environments, manufacturers must be more proactive than ever to implement safer and more efficient processing solutions, according to ABM Equipment Co.
The Vancouver, Wash.-based company points that a critical facet of bulk dry solids handling and processing is the use of Bag Dump Station equipment, which offers significant benefits to not just the food manufacturing industry, but also that related to pharmaceuticals and chemicals. However, dust and other particulate contaminants have remained a concern.
“Bag Dumps are nothing new, but auto-pulse technology innovations make the use of them safer and more sanitary,” said Jeff Walling, co-Owner of ABM Equipment Co. “Auto-pulse bag dump stations not only reduce both product and labor waste, but also provide a safer and more convenient way to introduce product to closed systems that prevent dust and other particulate contamination. This equipment pulls air in when bags are being dumped, and then automatically discharges product from the filter when it is no longer being added. By reverse-pulsing the filter every time the lid is closed, the bag dump saves the operator a step, prolongs the life of the filter and minimizes unused product.”
Dust collection mechanisms are a mission critical facet of these systems, as they remove dust and other particulate matter from the air. These come in many forms and configurations for different applications and materials.
As one case in point, ABM Equipment’s own Auto-Pulse Bag Dump Solution exemplifies modern day advancements, proffering key features:
• Choice of Dust Control Method: There are several different types of external dust collection systems available: cyclone, cartridge (required for compact in-unit systems) and baghouses. Each type of system has its own unique advantages and disadvantages for different applications.
• Auto-Reclaim: The default configuration of the ABM bag dump station is an internal jet which pulls air when the operator opens the door, and reverse-pulses the filter when the door is closed. This returns the ingredients caught on the filter back into the process after every dump and spares the operator having to stop and push buttons.
• Tool-less Grate Removal: Coming in a number of configurations—depending on ingredients’ tendency to bridge and the types of objects at risk of falling into the system—our grates nest securely but freely, letting operators remove them quickly when needed.
• Ergonomic Design: List-assist lids minimize operator fatigue and reduce the risk of injury.
• Durable Construction: Built with high-quality stainless or carbon for prolonged industrial use.
• Easy Maintenance: Accessible filter design and tool-less grate removal make maintenance straightforward.
• Customization Options: Available in various configurations to meet specific operational needs and space requirements.
A report from MarketsandMarkets states that the bulk food ingredients market is poised to reach $454.6 billion in revenue by 2028.
With the demand for prepared and processed foods going up, bulk dry solids handling and processing facilities, with the right Auto-Pulse Bag Dump Station equipment, can not only improve plant hygiene and conditions, but also reduce spillage, increase efficiency, mitigate accidents and bulk up those bottom lines in kind, the company adds.
