Dinnissen introduces slow flow conveying

The design principle of the Slow Flow Conveying (SFC) system was to achieve an optimum balance between low energy consumption and practical usability. The conveying system is characterised by low air speeds, relatively high load densities and reduced air consumption. This makes SFC suitable for transporting bulk solids hygienically, gently and efficiently. Slow Flow Conveying is based on the principle of vacuum transport and/or blow transport. A controlled flow of air or gas transports powders, granules and granulates from one or more intake points to a single compact receiver unit. The reverse is also possible. Because the ratio between the conveying air or gas and the product load is relatively high, both the conveying speed and the degree of friction between the ingredients/particles are relatively low. This makes SFC ideal for gently conveying fragile and friable products such as milk powder, chalk, instant powders and prepared, extruded and lecithinated products. Sticky products such as cereals, cocoa and hygroscopic products are less prone to caking when transported by SFC (possibly in combination with dehumidification).

Easy-clean functionality
The air speeds used in SFC are relatively low and the product loading relatively high. Because of the modest air or gas flow requirement, the system uses narrow-gauge pipes, a compact receiver system and small filters. The small dimensions of these components make cleaning fast and easy. The receiver unit in the SFC system incorporates easy-clean functionality in the form of filters that are removable on a special guide system. The system also features easily accessible and removable pipes that allow rapid inspection and cleaning of the intake and receiving points. In addition, Dinnissen offers the option of equipping the Slow Flow Conveying system with an automatic cleaning arrangement based on air or cleaning in place (CIP) cleaning using water or a cleaning agent (soaking and/or flushing).Because Slow Flow Conveying employs underpressure and overpressure, all systems are designed and engineered to ensure effective sealing against dust. As a result, SFC systems are ideally suited to applications that require compliance with strict hygiene and dust prevention requirements. In situations where conveying systems have to be hermetically sealed against dust, this new concept can be expanded to include valves that open and close in the right sequence and safe operation of the conveying system is monitored via SCADA displays or alarm systems that detect any faults in the line.

Suitable for sustainable production
The optimum loading characteristics of SFC minimise both friction and resistance. Consequently, less energy is required to transport products, making the whole process more sustainable. The compact design of the receiver system results in lower gas consumption. Furthermore, a compact air treatment system and smaller air treatment filter are adequate for the job on hand, thereby also contributing to the efficiency and reduced costs of the system. Additional features are for example, various options for increasing the capacity of existing systems, incorporating highly accurate metering and weighing equipment and boosting the system’s underpressure or overpressure. SFC is suitable for use in both batch production and continuous production lines and capable of transporting products over distances of up to 500 or 600 metres, at speeds of between eight and 15 metres per second. Further information can be obtained by contacting Henri Michiels at h.michiels@dinnissen.nl.