Filling bulk bags has always been a tricky business. That’s because pieces of metal — both large and small — can often get mixed in with the other materials, increasing the bulk bag’s weight and increase the risk of injury while handling.
But now a materials handling company in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has developed a new kind of bulk bag filler that detects and separates metal pieces before they can make their way into the bulk bag.
Flexicon announced the development of the new bulk bag filler in a company news release this week.
Besides being able to detect and remove metal, the filler also uses a patented Twin-Centerpost design that maximizes strength, reduces cost, and improves access to bag hooks.
As materials free falls through the filler machine, an integral metal detector scans the material for any type of metal. Once metal is found, it is then ejected from the filler through a chute and discharged into a removable drum located on the back side of the machine.
It is the first filler machine of its kind to receive approval from the US Department of Agriculture.
“Once the operator connects an empty bag and presses start, weigh-filling functions are automatic,” the news release stated. “The controller runs the conveyor, or rotary valve, at high feed rate, actuates the vibratory de-aeration/densification system, steps down the conveyor (or rotary valve) to dribble feed rate immediately prior to stopping it once the accurate fill weight is gained, and then releases the bag straps.”
Filled bags can then be lifted with a forklift and removed so that the next bulk bag can be fitted onto the filler.