Powder Metering at ultra-low levels
Bulk Solids dosing equipment for feed
rates above one kilogram per hour
are readily available. A few companies
can offer flow or batch rates below 50
grams per hour however, for applications
requiring true micro dosing at quantities
below this, the equipment becomes
difficult if not impossible to obtain.
Trantec have been developing a micro
dosing screw feeder capable of extremely
low feed rates and unrivalled accuracy.
Combining Trantec’s modern, in-house
computer-controlled machine tools with
their twenty plus years of experience
producing Powder Metering Feeders, the
“Nano” Feeder has gone from concept
to working prototype in record time.
Accurate feed rates below 5 grams per
hour are now achievable.
In-keeping with Trantec’s policy of
continual development, the Nano Feeder
is currently undergoing refinement and
intensive product testing to iron out
any manufacturing issues and improve
production times, an important factor
to keep the Nano Feeder competitively
priced.
Micro batch dosing presents numerous
challenges which are simply not present
on larger machines. The miniaturisation
of the Nano Feeder’s components
demands new techniques of manufacture
and even tighter tolerances than usual.
Careful design and experimentation have
enabled us to create robust parts which
can tolerate repeated handling in an
industrial or laboratory environment.
From the initial machine concept,
Trantec utilised 3D modelling and high-
resolution 3D printing to produce concept
components. The 3D printed parts were
assembled into a working prototype
which allowed actual material trials on
feed rates and accuracy.
32 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Once proven, the design was further Our exclusive design ensures that
enhanced to the highest specification wastage of expensive materials is kept to
required by the Bulk Solids industry by a minimum, with very little residue being
introducing pharmaceutical standards left in the feeder.
to the build quality. Metal detectable
blue silicone gaskets, PTFE dry running Complimenting the Nano Feeder’s
shaft seals, dismantling without tools for mechanical capabilities, Trantec offer
easy cleaning and autoclave compatible weigh control systems for both loss in
components are now available as optional weight and gain in weight applications
features. including Gravimetric type continual
weight loss monitoring and correction.
A typical Nano Feeder comprises a Nano Feeders can be mounted on a
conditioning chamber within the feeder dedicated weigh unit which offers even
body, complete with variable speed greater accuracy and control.
rotating agitator and variable speed
rotating Auger, which provide constant Selection of the correct Nano Feeder
or intermittent feeding to suit the configuration is essential for achieving
application requirements. The agitator optimum performance and accuracy. The
manipulates the product to a uniform nature and characteristics of the product
density to ensure consistent loading of is an important factor when choosing the
the auger. size of the Auger Screw and configuration
of the agitator.
The agitator employs highly efficient
contra rotating blades to break ‘bridges’ Trantec offer a free, comprehensive
and ‘rat holes’ using technology borrowed product testing service to all our clients.
from ribbon blade mixers. Upon completion of testing, we will
provide you with a report, detailing our
The product is then administered into findings and our recommendations
an auger screw, which can be rotated for trouble-free feeding. Alternatively,
at variable speeds, ensuring accurate customers can witness material trials
metering at a constant volume of 1% to first-hand or request a video with your
2% typically. report.
Modular in design, Trantec’s Nano- For more information
feeders offer easy access to all parts for Tel: 01282 777566 or send your enquiry
optimum cleaning and maintenance. to [email protected]