New Gravimetric Batch Blender

Process Control, has introduced the Guardian Series- the first in a series of gravimetric batch blenders designed to offer high performance at a value price. This new design is the result of discussions with many processors about the features that they wanted but found lacking in other batch blenders on the market. These problems were overcome while still maintaining the low prices that make them attractive to processors.

Poor blend homogeneity was a problem cited by processors discussing the available batch blenders. Currently, long-term blend accuracy is usually specified by batch blender manufacturers. This is actually representative of feeding accuracy only, not mixing accuracy. Blend homogeneity is the more important measure. Accuracy in blend homogeneity requires precise feeding and thorough mixing. Process Control engineers designed and carefully tested many different mixer configurations, including competitive ones, before arriving at the optimal mixer design of the Guardian Series. Based on comparative tests with one popular batch blender, the Guardian blender offers a significant improvement in blend homogeneity. This translates to improved end product quality and reduced resin costs. Copies of this test data are available from Process Control.

Other features which have been improved with the Guardian Series include material clean out and ease of operation. For easy and thorough clean out, an integral drain pan can be folded out to allow complete draining of each hopper. Access doors into the material compartments allow thorough cleaning by the included air hose or cloth wipe down if necessary. The operator interface is designed to lead the operator step-by-step through recipe entry and blender operation. Blender operation is shown graphically on the keypad by lights indicating the current status.

The initial unit is designed for 2 to 4 ingredients at up to 700 pounds per hour. Other sizes and configurations are currently being designed and tested for release later in the year. For more critical and/or higher rate applications, Process Control continues to offer their industry leading line of X Series continuous gravimetric blenders.

Process Control's technologies and products including gravimetric blenders, extrusion control, scrap recycling and material handling systems are distributed worldwide.

Process Control Corporation, 6875 Mimms Dr.. Tel: 770-449-8810; Fax: 770-449-5445.