Bulk Bag Unloader has Integrated CIP Features to Speed Changeover During Sanitary Process Operations

http://www.nbe-inc.com/bbd - The stringent changeover demands for this bulk bag unloading operation required the system to include clean-in-place (CIP) capabilities. The construction of the bulk bag unloader and the chain-type drag conveyor are cleanable to microbiologically safe levels. This process-specific, NBE bulk bag unloader and chain-style tubular conveyor are designed based on the particular changeover and throughput specifications of the application. Changeover times were reduced as a result of design features, such as: the elimination of internal angles, corners, and dead spaces to reduce accumulation of contaminants; angled planes, rounded-radius framework, highly finished plate, and stand-offs to speed moisture run-off away from product contact areas; and subassembly access, removal, and replacement as single-operator, tool-less actions to reduce time and labor per event. Despite the bulk material process demands requiring more frequent changeovers, total line uptime and throughput performance increased due to significant reductions in the time-per-changeover event. Process safety, and product safety gains were also realized from the NBE bulk bag unloader and conveying system. The enclosed bulk bag discharging, material conditioning, feeding, and filling systems protect operators by preventing migrant material dusts from entering the process area. The enclosed design also protects process material from contamination.