Customer Overview
A leading dairy cooperative in Ontario, Canada processes milk from its member farmers to produce butter, cheese, yogurt, milk powder, and other dairy products. These products are supplied to retail, food service, and industrial markets. To enhance product consistency and texture, the facility incorporates cellulose powder and plant fibers in its dairy formulations.
Understanding the Challenges of Conveying Cellulose Powder
Cellulose powder is a fine, fibrous material commonly used in food processing for its ability to improve texture and stability. However, its lightweight nature and tendency to generate dust create unique challenges in pneumatic conveying systems. The material’s low bulk density makes it prone to becoming airborne, increasing the risk of dust accumulation and explosion hazards. Additionally, cellulose powder is electrostatically charged, which can lead to material sticking to equipment surfaces, causing flow disruptions and maintenance concerns.
Moisture absorption is another key issue. As a hygroscopic material, cellulose powder can clump and build up inside conveying lines, potentially leading to blockages and inconsistent material flow. Because of these factors, effective dust containment, explosion protection, and careful material handling are critical for maintaining system efficiency and compliance with industry safety standards.
Customer Challenge: NFPA Compliance & Dust Containment
The facility had been relying on Hapman filter/receivers installed in 2010 as part of its pneumatic conveying system. However, evolving NFPA safety standards required an upgrade to improve dust containment and explosion mitigation. The customer needed a replacement solution that would integrate seamlessly into their existing vacuum conveying system while meeting the latest safety regulations.
Hapman’s Solution: E-Line Model 24R with Flameless Vent
To address the customer’s needs, Hapman supplied a Model 24R E-Line filter/receiver with a flameless vent. This unit was selected due to its compliance with current NFPA standards, ability to handle fine powder materials efficiently, and compatibility with the customer’s pneumatic conveyor system. Made of stainless steel with a food-grade finish, the E-Line unit ensures hygienic processing. If an explosion occurs, flames and dust discharge into the device and are extinguished as they pass through multiple layers of heat-absorbing stainless steel mesh, thus protecting the people and the equipment.
Why the Customer Chose Hapman
Proven Performance – The facility had successfully used Hapman equipment for over a decade.
Seamless Integration – The new unit fits into the existing process with minimal disruption.
Enhanced Safety – The flameless vent ensures compliance with modern NFPA standards for dust mitigation.
Results & Future Outlook
With this upgrade, the dairy cooperative will enhance workplace safety, improve dust containment, and ensure compliance with updated NFPA standards. By integrating a flameless vent, the system offers superior explosion protection while maintaining efficiency in pneumatic conveying. This investment supports the company’s long-term commitment to safe and effective bulk material handling.
Hapman continues to provide customized conveyor solutions for the food and dairy industry, delivering equipment that meets both regulatory requirements and operational efficiency goals.