Optimal dedusting capacity at soybean processor thanks to DCP
A processor of soybeans and rapeseed has fitted a number of belt conveyor transfer points with durable spot filters from Dust Control Partners (DCP). Despite the limited installation space, optimal dust control performance has been successfully achieved.
Businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of safe and environmentally responsible working conditions. Government rules and regulations are being strictly observed, and the health of employees is paramount. Processors of dust-sensitive products also recognize the importance and necessity of controlling and minimizing dust emissions. For example, a processor of soybeans and rapeseed in the Rotterdam port area has fitted a number of belt conveyor transfer points with sustainable dedusting equipment from Dust Control Partners (DCP). “In the previous situation, it was actually not possible to enter the area without respiratory protection. Now, the dust is extracted at its source, and is returned directly into the product flow”, says Henrik Baas, account manager at DCP.
This project at the port of Rotterdam can justifiably be called unique. In order to achieve the most effective extraction, DCP equipped four transfer points in a very limited space with four custom-made spot filters. The access doors on the filters were adapted, and a compact compressed air cleaning system used. As a result, optimal dedusting performance was achieved despite the limited space. An advanced control box, equipped with Profibus for remote monitoring, ensures that the filter is cleaned while in operation. Resistance across the system remains virtually the same during operation.
No product loss
“When a product drops from one conveyor belt to another, a dust cloud is created. However, it is important to lose as little product as possible. A fan is used to suck the dust into the filter, where the dust is separated from the air flow”, the account manager explains. “When the filter elements are cleaned, the dust falls back into the product flow.”
DCP’s sustainable solution ensures that virtually none of the extracted product is lost. The filters are located in an Atex 22 zone, and are therefore designed so that no ignition sources can occur. This means that, for example, the fan will not produce sparks, or that no electrostatic charge is able to be generated at the filter elements. The use of blow-off silencers means that noise emission is minimal.
Detailed analysis
Dust Control Partners not only focus on the installation and maintenance of their own equipment, but also inspect and maintain filter installations from other manufacturers on request. When carrying out this work, DCP performs detailed analyses, during which not only the dust filter, but the entire dedusting system is examined. Experience has shown that, over the years, additional connections are added to what had originally been a well-functioning pipeline network. The result? A far less efficient extraction system. In order to return the system to correct operation, sometimes only minor adjustments are required. However, refurbishing the old and poorly performing filters at the Rotterdam bulk terminal was no longer a viable option.
Improved efficiency
“At the terminal, we have many transfer points where regular work takes place, such as cleaning, inspection and sampling”, said a spokesman for the Rotterdam processor. “The inadequate performance of the old dust filters led to undesirable situations, such as poor working conditions and an increased risk of dust explosions. We were also keen to remove the dust filters from the roofs and locate everything indoors. In the event of damaged filter fabric, there is no direct emission to the environment. Moreover, when indoors, the filters are less exposed to weathering by the salty sea air, which means a longer life span. Maintenance has also become easier and safer, since technicians no longer need to go onto the roof. Another benefit is the improved extraction efficiency, because we extract directly at the source.”
Specialist customization
DCP provide specialist customization, and take care of the entire project, from engineering to commissioning. DCP are part of the TBK Group, which enables them to integrate various disciplines from within the group. “Think, for example, of belt seals, tracker rollers, belt scrapers and industrial screens”, says Henrik Baas. “In many situations, this allows us to offer a total solution. We are not an unwieldy, large organization, where customers simply select their complete dust control systems from a brochure. Our broad expert knowledge of bulk goods handling, combined with an open dialogue with customers, means that we can offer them that little bit extra.”
