Project Scope:
Problem solved current system operating deficiencies and provided engineering solutions that grind and convey sugar at a nominal rate of 3,000 lbs/hr.
Customers’ Desired Results:
- Mill product continuously at a rate of 3,000 lbs per hour.
- Particle reduction to 6X powder.
- Pneumatic convey product into a filter receiver and meter the product out at a consistent rate.
- Assured no metal contamination into the production stream.
- Incorporated explosion protection by providing explosion protection and suppression equipment to comply with OSHA and NFPA requirements.
- Provided engineering solutions for current operating deficiencies.
Current System Operating Deficiencies:
- Current system is under-performing with the rate of product per hour.
- System is undergoing constant bearing failures.
- Grinding stalls are producing caramelization of sugar in the mill.
- Running equipment is causing excessive temperatures during the grinding and conveying process.
- System tubing and piping is causing chronic reductions in air volume.
Engineered Solution:
- Upgraded fine grinder from the M-21 to the M-36 fine grinder with 25 HP motor.
- Two Prater PAV-6 rotary airlocks were integrated into the system to allow for consistent metering of the product.
- Replaced current mill discharge hopper with Prater low airflow hopper. This hopper eliminates the air intake under the mill and lowers system air volume requirements.
- Eliminated current air intake below the rotary feeder, re-piped existing starch line with 4″ O.D. tube, and provided branch damper upstream of starch feed.
- Terminated mill air intake with long radius elbow, vertical up at 5 feet with pleated, high capacity air intake filter.
- Upgraded to larger bin vent dust collector with lower air to cloth ratio.
- Provided a new pressure blower, which will reduce stress on the grinder, thus extending the maintenance intervals on bearing spindles.
- Re-routed current existing return line to new filter receiver instead of to the feed hopper.