Automation of recipe formulation and mixing
A fully automated formulation and blending process has been developed for bulk ingredients by Process Link that capitalises on the company's recently launched Linkbin powder handling system.
Normally, automation involves the collection of bulk ingredients -- typically from fixed hoppers and other ingredients via intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) -- direct from flexible IBCs or for small ingredients from a sack tip unit.
The process can be manually controlled or automated using a programmable logic controlled (PLC) recipe system that requires little or no operator input.
Typically, a row of ingredient discharge stations use seals and mounting frame arrangements to ensure a dust-tight operation. A recipe trolley traverses below the row of discharge stations, each with a feeder centred into the recipe bin.
The weighed recipe bin picks up the required amount of ingredients for the required formulation.
When the recipe bin has received all the ingredients it traverses to a known pre-blend position where it parks ready for discharging into the blend bin.
An overhead hoist automatically picks up the recipe bin and places it on to a discharge station, which allows the contents to be fully discharged into the blend bin in a dust tight manner.
By automating formulation and blending a number of benefits are obtained. In particular, the work involved is reduced, since recipes are prepared before they are needed and processes are therefore not held up. Production becomes more efficient and product quality and traceability are improved.
Contact: Process Link, Tel: 01608 662878
