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New 3D radar scanners enable precise volumetric inventory mapping for bulk solids in silos, boosting accuracy, safety, and operational efficiency. The Inventory Blind Spot In bulk solid storage across process industries, inventory tracking remains a persistent operational blind spot. When bulk materials enter a storage silo, they do not settle into a predictable, flat liquid surface. The formation of variable angles of repose, surface peaks and valleys, asymmetric piling, rat-holing, and material adhesion to silo sidewalls creates a highly complex topography. While traditional inventory tracking methods such as mass extrapolation and single-point measurement are widely utilized and foundational to many operations, relying on them exclusively for complex bulk solids may introduce certain uncertainties. For instance, calculating inventory solely based on inbound and outbound flow can occasionally lead to cumulative variances between recorded and physical stock over time due to natural material compaction or moisture changes. Similarly, single-point level sensors provide reliable, localized distance metrics. However,…

This October, the Cadfem World Conference will take place in the city of Darmstadt, Germany. For the first time, it will bring together providers and stakeholders from the global numerical simulation and computer-aided engineering community. The event will feature renowned speakers and keynote presenters from organizations including the US-based semiconductor and software company Synopsys, the AI company Qudora Technologies, and plant engineering specialist Krones. The program for the three-day conference has now been released. The conference opens on October 20 with the “Meet the Developers” format. In seven sessions, professionals from a wide range of industries and companies will have the opportunity to exchange ideas with a total of 30 leading developers and experts from Synopsys and Cadfem and to ask questions about Ansys, the world’s leading simulation software. In addition, companies, universities, and student teams will present live demonstrations and best-practice examples from their work with simulation software in a comprehensive exhibition. Benefits of Using Digital Twins and AI On the two following days, engineers and experts from universities, companies, and research institutions will…

The Eirich Group has appointed long-standing sales manager Volker Fitz as Chief Sales Officer. He assumes strategic leadership of all global sales activities to strengthen international customer service. Expansion of global sales organisation The Eirich Group is expanding its international sales structure with the creation of the Chief Sales Officer position. Long-standing sales manager Volker Fitz takes over the functional management and coordination of all global sales activities to ensure tailored processing solutions for customers worldwide. Decades of experience within the group Volker Fitz joined Eirich in technical sales in 2000. He subsequently led the sales team for Asia from 2014 before becoming overall head of sales at the company headquarters in Hardheim in 2018. He was appointed authorized signatory in 2024 and brings extensive group expertise to his new role. Strategic focus and international integration Key responsibilities of the new CSO role include market development, systematic sharing of best practices across subsidiaries, and closer integration between sales, engineering, product management, and R&D. The strategy aims to provide uniform service quality…

WCJ Pilgrim Wire, a subsidiary of Dorstener Drahtwerke Group, has acquired Mount Joy Wire. The transaction expands the group's specialty steel wire manufacturing capacities and market presence in North America. Full Acquisition of Mount Joy Wire WCJ Pilgrim Wire of York, Pennsylvania, a subsidiary of the German Dorstener Drahtwerke Group, has completed the acquisition of all remaining shares in US-based Mount Joy Wire. The strategic step strengthens the group's footprint and market position in North America. Manufacturing Capacities and Focus Founded in 1991, Mount Joy Wire operates a 20,400-square-metre production facility and employs approximately 120 people. The company manufactures a broad portfolio of special wire products, including high-carbon wires. Mount Joy Wire will retain its management structure, operational focus, and existing workforce to ensure continuity for customers and suppliers. Strategic Synergies in North America The acquisition aligns with Dorstener Drahtwerke's long-term strategy of international diversification. The expansion enables WCJ Pilgrim Wire to broaden its offering through shared expertise and growing production and distribution networks across…

The PharmaPicker from Bürkle allows precise sampling of small quantities of free-flowing powders. Interchangeable volume tips enable flexible adjustment of the sample volume. Precise pinpoint sampling The PharmaPicker from Bürkle GmbH was developed specifically for targeted sampling of free-flowing, powdered, and fine-grained substances. It is particularly suitable for high-potency or costly powders in pharmaceutical processing. Flexible interchangeable volume tips Depending on the version, two sample volume ranges are available: 0.1 ml to 1.2 ml and 1.25 ml to 2.5 ml. The desired volume is easily adjusted by exchanging the volume tips inside the collection cylinders. Extendable sampling depth Manufactured from high-quality stainless steel, the sampler features a basic length of 60 cm. For greater sampling depths, it can be extended multiple times by 50 cm or 100 cm up to a total length of 3.50 m.

Rettar has introduced the 3DPro2300 radar scanner for bulk solids inventory management in high-dust silos. The ATEX/IECEx certified system uses 80GHz FMCW radar to provide real-time 3D surface mapping. The Inventory Blind Spot: Why Mass Extrapolation & Single-Point Leveling Fail For decades, mine operators and bulk material handling facilities have relied on mass extrapolation via belt scales or single-point level measurement to estimate inventory. However, calculating theoretical weight or measuring a single vertical distance does not constitute true inventory management. Bulk solids behave unpredictably. Heavy dust generated during crushing, loading, and feeding operations, coupled with variable moisture and material discharge dynamics, frequently complicates the environment inside silos, making it difficult to calculate the volume of materials accurately. When management relies on legacy measurement paradigms, they operate with a critical operational blind spot: * Mass Extrapolation (Belt Scales): Relies on input/output throughput formulas. Cumulative measurement errors compound rapidly over time and fail to account for material compaction or structural hang-ups,…

The one-piece XTI bursting disc from Bormann & Neupert by BS&B features a weld-free design. Machined from solid material, it provides leak-free pressure relief for demanding high-pressure hydrogen processes. Seamless design for maximum leak-tightness In critical pressure applications handling hydrogen, the leak-tightness of all components is essential for safe operation. The new XTI bursting disc from Bormann & Neupert by BS&B is machined entirely from solid stock. By dispensing with welded seams, the design eliminates potential weak points and join lines, ensuring total process reliability and complete leak-tightness. Compact structure and precise response The weld-free construction renders the bursting disc lightweight and compact, making it suitable for mobile applications or restricted installation spaces. The XTI disc allows a continuous operating pressure of up to 80 percent of its minimum burst pressure. Integrated cross-scoring guarantees fragment-free pressure relief upon activation, protecting downstream plant equipment. Custom fabrication and exhibition showcase BS&B manufactures the maintenance-free XTI bursting discs in diameters ranging from 0.25 to 1 inch…

Akona Process Solutions will demonstrate complete powder handling and material processing capabilities at the PPMA Show 2026. The company brings together Cablevey, Kason, Marion and Spiroflow technology. Integrated powder handling solutions Akona Process Solutions will return to the PPMA Show 2026 on Stand B76, presenting integrated powder handling and material processing technology from its four specialist brands: Cablevey, Kason, Marion and Spiroflow. Exhibited processing and conveying technology Visitors will see a selected equipment range, including a Cablevey tubular drag conveyor, a Kason Centri-Sifter centrifugal screener, a Spiroflow flexible screw conveyor with a sack tip station, and a Marion horizontal mixer. Complete systems from a single source Serving industries such as food, pharmaceutical, chemical, minerals and pet food, Akona combines conveying, screening and mixing expertise into single-source solutions designed to improve product quality and operational efficiency. Expert advice for process optimization Throughout the event, application engineers will be available to discuss manufacturing challenges and recommend tailored solutions for upgrading existing…

Elit Process delivers high-quality raw material and industrial silos with professional manufacturing, transportation, installation and site supervision, backed by engineering expertise, proven know-how and fast project response. Raw material and industrial silos are critical components of modern bulk material handling systems. They provide safe, efficient and controlled storage for materials such as cement, minerals, chemicals, food products and other powders and granules. At Elit Process, we manage the complete silo process from engineering and manufacturing to transportation, installation and site supervision. Each industrial silo is designed according to the specific material, capacity, process and site requirements. Our strength comes from combining engineering experience, manufacturing quality and practical know-how. We focus on dimensional accuracy, structural reliability, high-quality fabrication and seamless integration with other process equipment. Professional transportation and installation are equally important. Our experienced team supports silo assembly and site supervision, helping ensure correct positioning, alignment, safe installation and compliance with project requirements.…

The MOLOSroto DF28-SD1V is the world’s only rotating-blade level transmitter with an integrated protection roof for use as a full-level transmitter in bunkers or silos for heavy and coarse-grained bulk materials. The measuring blade of the MOLOSroto DF28-SD is 4 mm thick and is further protected by an integrated protection roof at the end of the protection tube. This makes this rotary blade level switch ideally suited for reliable level measurement in heavy and coarse-grained bulk materials such as gravel or coal. The robust protection tube is available in lengths of up to 6,000 mm, and the vane shaft can be stabilized at the end of the protection tube with an additional ball bearing if necessary, allowing for angled installation. The DF28 rotary blade level indicator is part of the proven MOLOSroto series and thus offers all the corresponding advantages. These include resistance to pressure, dust, buildup, and the electrical conductivity of the bulk material. In addition, this measuring device can be used at temperatures ranging from -40 °C to +500 °C. Stainless steel housings are available, as are ATEX certifications for use in areas at risk of dust and gas explosions.

The white paper highlights six common problems encountered when inspecting bucket elevators – ranging from worn components and damaged buckets to chain wear and loose fastenings – and provides practical recommendations. Periodic inspections of bucket elevators should be an essential part of any maintenance program. Often it is helpful to conduct these with a trusted vendor who can provide insight into solutions that go beyond just part replacement. The following are examples of common issues found during bucket elevator inspection programmes conducted by 4B. This paper will provide suggestions on what to look for and explain the consequences of each issue. Common issues # Worn / Loose Slide Lagging # Broken Buckets # Excessive Bucket Wear # Loose Sprocket on Head Shaft # Chain Wear # Loose Fasteners In this article we have shared six common problems identified during 4B bucket elevator inspections. Many other issues can arise and our team of bucket elevator specialists is qualified to inspect and provide solutions to help bring your bucket elevator back to its optimum performance. Contact 4B book your bucket elevator inspection.

Payper highlights how advanced weighing controllers optimise dynamic dosing in high-speed bagging systems. Real-time algorithms eliminate overfilling and boost productivity. Challenges in Dynamic Bagging Weighing In high-capacity bagging installations operating at speeds above 2,000 bags per hour, maintaining weighing precision within a few grams requires real-time control of product velocity, flow behaviour, vibrations, and material remaining in flight. To address these variables, Payper has developed proprietary weighing control technologies that integrate electronics, software, and mechanical systems. Dual-Flow Dosing and Flying Product Control Most industrial dosing systems rely on a dual-flow strategy, combining a rapid coarse feeding phase with a fine adjustment stage. Because bulk materials continue moving after the feed closure signal, advanced algorithms must anticipate material behaviour and accurately calculate the in-flight product. This prevents systematic overfilling without requiring long stabilization pauses for impact forces and mechanical vibrations. Closed-Loop Communication Boosts Output Integration between the weighing…

Improvement of production processes, reduction of manual errors; real-time monitoring and control; improved documentation and traceability; support in decision-making Sachtleben Technology’s Owl Eye is a central digitization platform for the collection of operational data. This platform is characterized by the seamless integration of a range of precise measurement tools that enable comprehensive and timely collection of critical operational data. The collected data is processed and visualized by a powerful database application and made available to users via various interfaces. Owl Eye® serves as a key resource for companies looking for ways to improve operational transparency, increase efficiency and gain deep insight into their production processes. Five reasons why digitization pays off: # Improve production processes; Digital monitoring of plant utilization and capacity enables detailed analysis of production processes. Real-time data allows bottlenecks to be quickly identified and adjustments made to increase efficiency. This leads to optimized utilization of production capacity and a reduction in idle time. # Reduce…

Grieshaber Group opens Allgeirhof Training Center. After extensive renovation, a traditional Black Forest farmhouse was transformed into a unique venue for the exchange of knowledge and face-to-face contact. Schiltach/Wolfach. The Grieshaber Group has officially opened the Allgeirhof Training Center. After extensive renovation, a traditional Black Forest farmhouse was transformed into a unique venue for the exchange of knowledge and face-to-face contact. For the sister companies VEGA, Grieshaber Precision and Supfina, this project is an investment not only in modern professional development, but also in the Black Forest as a long-term location. Tradition and future Spanning some 1,750 square metres, Allgeirhof combines historic architecture with state-of-the-art technology. The characteristic Black Forest farmhouse façade was immaculately preserved, whilst the interior of the building underwent a complete restructuring. Classrooms for practical and theoretical training enable highly specialised instruction; the installed state-of-the-art media technology supports hybrid training formats. “Allgeirhof embodies the blend of tradition and innovation. With this special venue,…

KMH's Powder Coating 2.0 for piping systems offers enhanced electrical conductivity, superior corrosion protection, and FDA/REACH conformity for bulk material handling. One surface. Multiple functions. More efficiency for you. KMH introduces Powder Coating 2.0 for piping systems as of September 2026. Conventional powder coating has been a proven method for more than seven decades, helping to improve the durability and resistance of piping systems while enhancing their appearance. So far, so good. But at KMH, development certainly hasn’t stopped there. With our new-generation powder coating, our piping systems don’t just become more resistant – the surface itself takes on multiple functions. Things are getting SAFERER at KMH. Let’s go! What makes it special? The surface does more than simply protect against external influences. High electrical conductivity, optimised corrosion protection, and FDA and REACH conformity are combined in our coating. Our best electrical conductivity yet – integrated, not added One key advantage is the coating’s integrated electrical conductivity. This can reduce the need for additional grounding…

The Mixomat A laboratory mixer is now also available with optional container heating and interior cooling (cooling of the mixing chamber). Mixomat drum mixers are used for mixing or pre-blending bulk materials in the chemi-cal, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Among other things, they are also suitable for powders and granulates that do not have optimal flow properties. The Mixomat drum mixer range has a modular design and includes mixers for a wide variety of container sizes and applications. The Mixomat A laboratory mixer is designed for quantities or batches of 3 to 26 li-ters, a maximum bulk material weight of 2 kg/l, and a maximum payload of 25 kg, with a weight of 90 kg. This mixer has the same features as the large drum mixers and, thanks to its mobility, can be used directly on site or in the laboratory area. The Mixomat A laboratory mixer is also available as a two-sided version and as a com-fortseries or ecoline version. The functionality is identical to that of its larger Mixomat counterparts: the container, filled to a maximum of 70% of its gross volume, is rotated upside down for a preselect-ed…

Electropolishing can specifically improve stainless steel surfaces for demanding bulk material processes. Reduced micro-roughness, stable passivation, and improved cleanability make this process ideal for applications where purity is critical. When the Surface Matters in Stainless Steel For stainless steel containers designed for bulk materials, the surface is more than just a matter of appearance. Especially with powders and granules, it can affect how much product remains after emptying and how labor-intensive the subsequent cleaning process is. One way to specifically treat the surface is through electropolishing. BOLZ INTEC uses this process on stainless steel containers and equipment and also performs the treatment on components and containers from other manufacturers. During electropolishing, material is electrochemically removed from the stainless steel surface. This process reduces microscopic irregularities in particular. At the same time, it promotes the formation of a passive protective layer. The surface becomes smoother and can exhibit greater corrosion resistance. This is of particular interest for surfaces that come into contact with the product. Product particles can become lodged in irregularities.…

Poeth's rotary silo discharge system ensures controlled flow of challenging, bridging-prone bulk solids, preventing compaction and blockages. Reliable discharge from silos containing difficult-flowing and bridging-prone products is a well-known challenge in the bulk solids industry. Products such as whey fat concentrates, cocoa cake and other cohesive bulk materials can form bridges above the silo outlet. This can result in an irregular product flow or even complete blockage of the silo outlet. For these applications, Poeth uses a rotary silo discharge system. The product at the bottom of the silo is mechanically activated by a slowly rotating discharge element. This element covers a large area of the silo bottom and moves the material in a controlled manner towards one or multiple outlets. Alternative to a vibrating bin discharger Vibrating bin dischargers or vibrators are frequently used to promote product flow from silos. However, for certain products, vibration can have the opposite effect. Materials that are sensitive to compaction may become increasingly compacted or consolidated when exposed to prolonged…

Waste Overall Solutions and singold jointly developed a trolley-mounted solution that enables a single distance knocker to reach the entire length of a rotary drum. When damp fly ash adheres to the inner wall of a rotary drum, production downtime and labour-intensive cleaning operations are only a matter of time. This was the challenge faced by Waste Overall Solutions S.A. Through close development collaboration between the Greek waste management specialist and singold gerätetechnik gmbh, a simple yet highly innovative solution… When damp fly ash adheres to the inner wall of a rotary drum, production downtime and labour-intensive cleaning operations are only a matter of time. This was the challenge faced by Waste Overall Solutions S.A. Through close development collaboration between the Greek waste management specialist and singold gerätetechnik gmbh, a simple yet highly innovative solution was created: a pneumatic singold QJ 80 Distance Knocker mounted on a movable carriage, enabling it to access virtually the entire length of the rotating drum. The challenge What begins as a thin layer gradually builds up with every revolution…

At Powtech Technopharm 2026, the focus will be on standardized filling and bagging systems, automated fine-thread closures, dust-free vacuum packaging, integrated robotic labeling and Packaging as a Service for greater process reliability. At Powtech Technopharm 2026 from September 29 to October 1, 2026, Greif-Velox will present solutions for filling, bagging and palletizing powders, granules and liquids in Hall 9, Booth 9-450. Two applications can be experienced live at the booth: the ValvoSeal Safe ultrasonic sealing solution and a Bizerba label robot for automated drum labeling. In addition, Greif-Velox will provide information on standardized packaging systems, the automation of previously manual process steps and new models for the flexible use of packaging technology. MOIN Powtech – Machines. Original. Innovative. North. Under the motto “MOIN Powtech,” Greif-Velox will present its range of solutions from individual machines to complete packaging lines. The portfolio includes systems for valve bags and FIBCs as well as solutions for canisters, drums and IBCs, complemented by palletizing, service and digitalization solutions. Essential Line: standardized solutions for typical applications With…

WtE plants manage diverse bulk materials. Radar scanners, level sensors, and point switches optimize inventory in pits, hoppers, and silos. Waste-to-energy (WtE) plants handle a variety of materials, including incoming waste, combustion residues, flue gas treatment reagents, and leachate. These materials can create different measurement challenges, such as dust, fog, high humidity, material buildup, corrosion, and irregular material surfaces. For this reason, WtE plants often require different monitoring technologies for different process areas. 3D radar scanning, radar level measurement, laser scanning, and point-level switches can be selected according to the material, operating conditions, and monitoring requirements. Monitoring Challenges Across Waste-to-Energy Plants Waste Storage Pits Waste storage pits contain mixed and irregular materials that are constantly changing. Moisture, fog, dust, and odors can also make visual inspection difficult. A 3DPro2300 Radar Scanner can scan the material surface and generate a three-dimensional model, providing information about material height, surface distribution,…

amixon® has been developing precision mixers for the production of dietary supplements, vitamin mixtures, and sports nutrition for over 40 years. This article provides an overview of the key process requirements in dietary supplement manufacturing based on amixon®'s application experience. Dietary supplements are legally classified as foodstuffs, but in practice they are closer to pharmaceuticals. Complex formulations with vitamins, probiotics, plant extracts, and bioactive substances require reproducible processes, complete documentation, and GMP-compliant equipment. Contract manufacturers face an additional challenge: multiple recipes every day, in the same machines, with maximum demands on allergen management and cleanability. Four core challenges in process engineering * Homogeneity and dosing accuracy: Active ingredients must be distributed identically in each portion. The benchmark is a standard deviation of less than 1% in mixing quality. * Protection of sensitive ingredients: Proteins, probiotics, and vitamins are sensitive to heat and shear forces. Suitable mixers operate at low peripheral speeds and…

Greif-Velox has launched the Essential Line, a range of standardized bagging and filling equipment. The pre-configured machines offer short delivery times for around 80 percent of typical industrial applications. Standardised technology for fast availability With the Essential Line, Greif-Velox has introduced a new portfolio of pre-configured packaging and filling systems. Designed to cover approximately 80 percent of typical industrial applications, the systems feature a delivery lead time of around four weeks. The concept targets companies seeking proven technology without the overhead of custom engineering, helping to reduce integration and maintenance expenses. Bagging equipment for powdered bulk solids For solid materials, the product line includes the BVP Essential gross pneumatic packer. Handling bulk densities from 350 to 800 g/l, the unit fills 100 to 140 valve bags per hour made of paper or PE woven fabric. It is available in four expansion stages and can be extended from manual operation to a fully automated packaging process. Additionally, the VeloVac Essential provides a vacuum bagging system for the low-dust packaging of ultra-light powders such as carbon black…

The growing market for longevity ingredients requires sophisticated process engineering. Powtech Technopharm 2026 will showcase industrial solutions for purification, drying, and solids formulation. From niche research to an industrial growth market Just a few years ago, “longevity” was a term confined to research labs and California startups. Today, it has become a consumer goods segment experiencing double-digit growth. According to a market study by The Business Research Company, the market for longevity supplements – that is, dietary supplements aimed at healthy aging and cellular function – alone is projected to rise from $8.8 billion in 2025 to $14.3 billion in 2030. If we broaden the market definition to include anti-aging medications, diagnostics, and wellness, forecasts suggest that market volumes will exceed $60 billion over the coming decade. The most important driver is demographics: The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the number of people aged 60 and older worldwide will rise from about one billion in 2020 to approximately 1.4 billion in 2030. Added to this is a shift in mindset. Consumers are increasingly investing in prevention…