The fluid bed processor has emerged as a relatively new innovation for the chemical engineering field that provide multiphased production and engineering efficiencies. In the 1920s, France Winkler developed the original fluidized bed reactor in Germany. Today, we view the fluidized bed driers as critical components for creating polymers such as rubber, polypropylene, polyethylene, styrenes and for a varied array of organic processing operations.
There are many features that make the fluid bed processor a positive innovation to your manufacturing process. For example, they can institute more uniform particle mixing, more consistent temperature control and they can provide the ability to run operations around the clock. By using the circulating fluidized bed, it provides the ability for continuous processing runs that can eliminate multiple start up cycles as well.
When you consider adding a fluid bed drier to your manufacturing operation you want to consider your final results and the overall capacity required in order to understand cost savings and maintenance requirements. When switching to a fluid bed processor, you may need to boost the container size for the reactor as a result of the air content in the particulate that is being mixed. In addition, your preventative maintenance schedule will need to account for the potential erosion of the internal components based on natural wear and tear of the fluidized bed contents.
As you prepare to get bids for a fluid bed processor, you should look at various online reviews of vendors. You can find feedback and comments from previous customers that will give you insights into both the performance and integration process. In addition to the online reviews, you can also look at industry association resources and speak with colleagues for referrals of highly ranked systems. While some of this information may be subject to intellectual property for their process, other contacts within your industry may have timely insights that can help you get the best solution for your production needs.
Regardless of which fluidized bed drier and system you select, it can help you grow your manufacturing capacities, improve the coating and treating of your particulates, and minimize quality issues during final output. Your initial research should help you ask the right questions and to make the best decisions when it comes time to solicit quotes and proposals.
