Dryer Selection and Bulk Solids Handling
Photo by Alexandre Debiève on Unsplash Solids handling is not a unit operation. Therefore, it’s not covered in engineering courses. This leaves process engineers struggling to understand the “flowability” of bulk solids. This blind spot is huge. So, let’s talk about dryer selection and bulk solids handling. Recently in The Chemical Engineer, Grant Wellwood described bulk solids handling as the biggest industrial activity on the planet. The article estimated “that >70% of everything we use or…
Troubleshooting Filter Aids and Filtration Systems
Filter aid pretreatment can improve filtration properties and efficient removal of fine solids. Whether the filter aids are used in Plate-and-frame filter presses, horizontal and vertical pressure leaf filters, candle or tubular filters, Nutsche filters, or rotary vacuum drum filters, these practical tips can help this part of the process run smoothly. We typically see diatomite, perlite and cellulose filter aids today. They meet the requirements of a filter aid in that they: Consist of rigid,…
Changing it Up with Mixer-Dryer-Reactor Acquisition
Photo by Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash Starting off 2019, I talked about push pushing ourselves personally and professionally to embrace change. Well, I’m a man of my word, and I’m proud to announce a big change in filter tech at BHS-Sonthofen GmbH. We’re looking at 2019 as a year of growth, starting with the acquisition of the internationally active AVA-GmbH technology company. AVA, based just outside of Munich, Germany, has 25+ years under its belt producing innovative machines and efficient…
Become a Filtration Tech Troubleshooting Expert
Photo by Marjan Grabowski on Unsplash Recently I addressed the too-familiar telephone call that the “filtration system is not working.” When the call comes in — and so seldom during regular business hours — filtration tech experts have to react quickly to solve the problem. Now, the question is how do you avoid getting these types of calls in the first place? Well, you can turn off your cell phone, but maybe isn’t the best idea. Instead, the better approach is proactive troubleshooting.…