Flexicon, Bethlehem, Pa., revamped its BULK-OUTbulk bag weigh batch unloading system to include a manual dumping station and flexible screw conveyor that automatically conveys weighed batches of contamination-sensitive materials to downstream processes for rapid sanitizing.
The BFC model discharger frame is equipped with a cantilevered I-beam with electric hoist and trolley for positioning of bulk bags without the use of a forklift. A SPOUT-LOCK clamp ring atop a TELE-TUBE telescoping tube securely connects the clean side of the bag spout to the clean side of the equipment intake, and maintains constant downward tension on the bag as it empties and elongates, promoting complete discharge from the bag.
At timed intervals, FLOW-FLEXER bag activators raise opposite bottom edges of the bag as it lightens, ultimately forming a steep V-shape that promotes complete discharge of free- and non-free-flowing materials from the bag.
A bag dump station with folding bag shelf allows manual dumping of minor additions into the hopper from hand-held packaging and containers.
The hopper is vented to a BAG-VAC dust collection system that draws airborne dust from manual dumping activities away from the operator when the hopper lid is open. When the hopper lid is closed during bulk bag discharging, the dust collection system prevents displaced air and dust from entering the plant atmosphere and collapses empty bags prior to tie-off, preventing dust generated when empty bags are flattened manually.
A FLEXI-FORCE lump breaker integral to the hopper reduces agglomerates and promotes the continuous flow of material into the charging adapter of the flexible screw conveyor.
Load cells supporting the entire system are linked to a PLC that stops the flexible screw conveyor once the system has lost a pre-set amount of weight.
Positioned above the clamp ring is a POWER-CINCHER pneumatically-actuated flow control valve that cinches the spout concentrically, allowing re-cinching of partially empty bags for leak-free tie-offs.
The entire system is constructed of stainless steel finished to sanitary standards, and is rated for washdown.
Flexicon Corp.
888-353-9426
www.flexicon.com
