Powder Processing Machinery

There are many different machines that are used in a variety of industries. Powder processing represents a rather substantial category and although many individuals may be unaware of how important this task is, modern society would quickly come to a halt should certain types of processing equipment cease to function. So, let us look at some of the most prevalent types of this machinery and the very specific benefits that are provided.

Mixing Technology

Both batch mixers and those that will continuously operate (thus allowing the addition of different powders) are quite common. Of course, the discrete mechanism will revolve around the intended use. Conical mixers and shear mixers are used widely and these designs will offer the user a number of options. While some powders will require a low-impact homogenisation, others will need to be vigourously stirred to achieve the desired results. While these units will accommodate powder, they can also be employed to address slurry, paste and liquid.

Agglomeration and Compaction

Agglomeration is an industry term that centres around the combination of smaller powder particles to create larger ones of a specific shape and size. Compaction is normally used to compress powder into "flakes" of manageable density and dimensions. This end product will then be further manipulated (an example could be the processes involved with making certain pills and food products). So, it is obvious that very exacting machinery will need to be used to achieve these desired results. Roller mills, flake crushers and a device called an "extruder" will all fall into this category.

Size Reduction

Size reduction actually serves a broad spectrum of uses in the powder processing industry. It is for this reason that many different terms allude to the same action. Some of these include milling, pulverising or grinding. Nonetheless, the goal is to reduce the size of a specific particulate into exacting dimensions. Part of the methodology employed will be determined by:

• The size desired.

• The chemical and physical properties of the powder.

• The volume to be processed.

• The possibility of reducing different powders within a short period of time (known as a rapid product changeover).

So, there are a number of different mechanisms that can be used. Some of the most common are pin mills, cone mills, media mills and granluators of various types. One aspect of size reduction that may need to be taken into account is the reactivity of the powder itself. So, some machines may also need to come equipped with a higher durability, increased resistance to wear and tear and even technology that mitigates the chances of an explosion. These factors will all be determined by the type of mechanism in question.

These are but three of the most prevalent powder processing methods. Naturally, subcategories are also present and most units will accommodate exacting specifications.

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