Built for Reliability: Eriez B-HC Feeder Powers Progress at Cemex Dove Holes

Cemex UK is advancing a multi-phase investment programme at its Dove Holes Building Products facility in Derbyshire, a flagship site within the company’s national concrete block production network. The initiative focuses on upgrading critical equipment, automation, and supporting infrastructure to enhance efficiency, consistency, and long-term operational reliability.

According to Stephen Leigh, Operations Manager Northern at Cemex Dove Holes, the programme reflects a broader commitment to future-focused manufacturing. “This investment is about preparing the site for enduring success,” Leigh said. “By improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact, we’re ensuring Dove Holes continues to deliver high-quality concrete products that meet evolving customer expectations.”

As new systems are introduced, dependable material handling equipment plays a critical role in maintaining stable production, particularly in facilities where modern automation must integrate seamlessly with established processes.

The Role of Material Handling in Cement and Concrete Production

In cement and concrete manufacturing, material handling systems are central to process stability. Equipment must manage abrasive materials, provide precise flow control, and operate reliably under continuous-duty conditions. During plant modernisation projects, these systems are critical, helping sustain throughput while new machinery and controls are commissioned.

Recognising these demands, Cemex partnered with Eriez®, a global leader in magnetic separation, metal detection, and vibratory feeding technology. With decades of experience supporting cement, aggregates, and mineral processing operations worldwide, Eriez equipment is engineered for applications where reliability directly affects product quality and production yield.

Integrating the Eriez B-HC Electromagnetic Feeder

To support its operational goals, Cemex implemented the Eriez B-HC Electromagnetic Feeder at the Dove Holes facility. Designed for high-capacity applications, the B-HC delivers consistent material flow with precise, adjustable control, making it well-suited to demanding environments.

“Across the cement and concrete sector, producers are focused on maximising uptime while improving process consistency,” said Clay O’Dana, Eriez Global Product Manager – Vibratory. “Our equipment is designed to provide predictable performance and simplified operation, even in the most challenging settings.”

The B-HC feeder features Eriez’ rare earth permanent magnetic armature system, which applies force in both forward and reverse tray directions to improve linearity and control. Paired with an AC control system with accelerometer feedback, the feeder ensures smooth, repeatable material flow with minimal operator oversight. An epoxy-encased coil protects internal components from dust and moisture, further reducing maintenance requirements.

“When facilities upgrade or modify systems, material handling equipment must perform flawlessly,” said Liam Gulwell, Eriez’ Regional Business Development Manager, UK & Ireland. “The B-HC is engineered to operate under even the harshest real-world conditions with the utmost consistency.”

Supporting Reliable, Consistent Production

At Dove Holes, the Eriez B-HC Feeder supports uniform batching and efficient downstream processing. Its stable performance helps decrease process variation, optimise throughput, and preserve product quality as site upgrades continue.

Because the feeder integrates into the existing plant layout, Cemex has been able to maintain steady production with limited disruption. “Maintaining day-to-day stability while improvements are underway is crucial,” Leigh added. “Reliable material handling is the foundation of our entire production process.”

Looking Ahead

Cemex’s continued investment at Dove Holes highlights its future-ready approach to operational excellence, sustainability, and evolving industry demands. Its collaboration with Eriez demonstrates how proven equipment solutions can support successful modernisation while reinforcing lasting plant reliability.

“Modernisation isn’t just about installing new equipment,” Leigh concluded. “It’s about aligning every part of the process so that each improvement delivers maximum value.”