Ajax improves grain hopper flow

Solids handling specialist, Ajax Equipment has improved hopper flow at a Scandinavian puffed oat and rice maker. The design of the company’s main storage hopper was causing segregation, leading to quality issues arising from poor distribution in the size and mix of grains during bagging operations. To counter segregation, and improve hopper flow, Ajax has supplied a two part anti-segregation system in stainless steel comprising a dispersing plate and flow insert. 

Segregation can occur when there is movement of a bulk solid which has particles of varying size, density or even shape. When material moves during hopper discharge particles of different sizes may separate leading to similar sized particles becoming concentrated in regions within the bulk rather than staying evenly dispersed. The dispersing plate provided by Ajax prevents segregation when the material is entering the hopper. As the grain enters it passes over a dispersing plate ensuring the material is more evenly distributed within the hopper so avoiding issues associated with single point repose filling the hopper. The introduction of an inverted single cone insert to the bottom of the hopper ensures a more even drawdown of grain from all regions of the hopper, not just a narrow area; producing the desired mix of particle size at the bagging machine rather than an excessive amount of large or small particles as was the case previously.

According to Ajax technical director, Eddie McGee, inserts can be used to improve many of a hopper’s flow characteristics. “The flow and ‘live’ storage volume of a hopper can be greatly improved and issues such as arching and ratholing prevented, by using an inverted single cone, twin cone or cone and cylinder inserts.”

In addition to the stainless steel dispersing plate and insert, Ajax has also provided a pneumatic cylinder to allow cleaning.

For more information on Ajax Equipment flow inserts call +44(0)1204 386723, email: sales@ajax.co.uk and visit www.ajax.co.uk