First UK powder plant for Zanchetta up and running

Zanchetta's first major UK powder handling plant is in operation at SSL International's new factory in Peterlee, Co Durham. It is being used for storage, blending and transfer of a range of products and includes an FS2000 blender, ten 2000l IBCs and 10 throughfloor discharge stations, six of which are equipped with Zanchetta's Air Chamber feeding system. A bin washing station has also been supplied.

The FS2000 blender has a compact footprint, thanks to its single arm design. The arm is connected to a horizontal bin cradle, which has a 15° inclination on the rotation axis to allow a double asymmetric blending action for efficient mixing and improved stability of the product.

The cradle features two centring cups to ensure correct positioning of the bin. Once the blending parameters have been entered, either manually or via a pre-stored programme, the bin is locked in place automatically by two lateral blocking devices and one upper blocking arm for maximum safety.

The Air Chamber transfer system is part of Zanchetta's ISOClean range, designed to assure complete segregation of product and environment and obviate the need for cleaning systems for transfer pipework.

Air Chamber consists of a series of bladder valves installed at equal intervals in a transparent vertical pipe connecting storage and filling/packing areas. Prior to transfer, all valves are in a closed position. The transfer operation begins with the connection of a polyethylene liner to the valve at the base of the IBC. Once the valve is open, product enters the sleeve; the valves then open in sequence to allow a controlled descent of the sleeve and the product therein. On completion of transfer, the liner is welded and cut top and bottom ready for disposal.

Zanchetta processing and handling equipment is available in the UK from Huntingdon-based Romaco.