Strengthened presence
Brazil. Lafarge has announced that it will receive Brazilian cement assets in exchange for selling its 17.28 per cent stake in the Portuguese Cimpor group to Votorantim, one of the largest conglomerates in Latin America. The payment terms depend on the outcome of the public takeover bid for Cimpor.
   The move will make Lafarge one of Brazil's top three cement operators in what is regarded as a buoyant market that is achieving average annual growth rates of 5 per cent. Lafarge is already active in Brazil with four plants and one grinding station and the new arrangement will enable it to establish new positions in fast-growing regional markets in the Northeast and Midwest. Its presence around Rio de Janeiro will be reinforced and there are bright prospects in terms of the World Cup in 2014 and Olympic Games in 2016.
   Lafarge already employs around 1,200 people in Brazil and is active in the four business areas of cement, aggregates, concrete and gypsum.
   Votorantim Cimentos ranks among the world's top ten manufacturers of cement, concrete and aggregates and is the market leader in Brazil. It also operates eight production units outside of the country: two in Canada, five in the US and one in Bolivia. Votorantim also owns 15 per cent of Chile's Cementos Bio Bio, and has a 38 per cent stake in both Cementos Avellaneda in Argentina and Cementos Artigas SA in Uruguay.
   |   11:56 02/03/2010

Hydrotransport event
UK. A call for papers is announced for 18th International Hydrotransport Conference which takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 22 - 24 September 2010. Hydrotransport was established in 1970 by the BHR Group, a leading independent research centre in fluids engineering.
   Papers are invited on all aspects of slurry transportation including slurry handling, in-pipeline and free-surface flows, case studies, relevant technologies, economic assessments and operational experiences. 
  This most basic of techniques combines a number of handling advantages with minimum maintenance and low environmental impact, and seems especially relevant at a time when there are warnings over climate change and the need for environmentally responsible, cost-effective and efficient methods of product transportation. Brazil has been chosen as the venue because it is a world leader in design and construction of major slurry pipelines.
   Possible subjects for papers include: long distance pipelines; slurry preparation, dewatering and liquor clarification; slurry treatment, transport and disposal; paste and high density tailings pumping; mine backfilling and hydrohoisting; bottom and fly ash slurry handling; flue gas desulphurisation; comminution; environmental issues; in-plant slurry handling; general chemical catalyst handling; sewage sludge handling; concrete and cement handling; equipment wear; on-line sampling and instrumentation; cleaning, jetting, pigging and blockage removal; coarse particle transport; non-Newtonian, non-settling slurries; safety; and pipeline integrity assessment.
email: confx2@bhrgroup.co.uk
www.bhrconferences.com
   |   10:21 23/02/2010

Philippines street child team

Streets ahead in footie
Whitehouse Scientific is sponsoring the Philippines national team at the first ever Deloitte Street Child World Cup. Street children representing nine countries will gather in Durban, South Africa from 14 - 23 March 2010 to play football and raise awareness of the rights of these children worldwide.
   Whitehouse Scientific is already an active supporter of children's charities, ranging from Children in Need in the UK to children's work in Mongolia. In particular, the company has developed a special relationship with the Mango Tree children's home in Manila, which does sterling work in rescuing disadvantaged children in need or on the street.

Dr Graham Rideal with Manilan street children

New centre of excellence
India. Materials characterisation expert Malvern Instruments has opened a third centre of excellence in Delhi, established through its joint venture company Malvern Aimil Instruments Pty.
  Designed to serve customers in the north and north east of the country, the facility has laboratories equipped with a range of Malvern systems and staffed by an applications team, able to provide demonstrations and training, applications and technical support as well as undertaking sample analysis.
   Malvern Aimil Instruments Pty was formed in 2008, a joint venture between Malvern and Aimil, the company's distributor in the region. Headquartered in Mumbai, Malvern Aimil Instruments has eight offices in India, and centres of excellence in Bangalore and Baroda, as well as the new facility in Delhi.
   Cutting the ribbon in Delhi were Paul Walker, MD of Malvern Instruments, and Arvind Verma, MD of Aimil. Both expressed delight with the success of the joint venture and the company's commitment to providing the highest possible level of customer support to users in the country. Malvern's acquisition of Viscotek means that there is direct support for Viscotek GPC/SEC systems in India.
www.malvern.com
   |   10:56 15/02/2010

Nano response
UK. The Nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network (NanoKTN), the UK’s primary knowledge network for micro and nanotechnologies, in conjunction with Leatherhead Food Research, has issued a statement concerning the recent House of Lord’s Science & Technology Committee report on Nanotechnologies and Food.
   The response follows a perceived emphasis in the national press on the food industry’s secrecy in its research activities in this new and developing area. NanoKTN and Leatherhead make a number of points concerning key recommendations and conclusions of the report not highlighted in press coverage including:
• need for Government to identify the needs of the food industry and make provision for them in its national strategy;
• review ways to promote technology transfer and help the industry meet challenging issues;
• more research funding in the areas of health and safety into toxicity and safety of nanomaterials and the establishment of a mandatory confidential database of information on research in this area;
• formal risk assessments for every nanomaterial used in a food product and use of 100nm or less for defining nano to be replaced with under 1000nm (1 micron) and a clear definition of what proportion of material has to be at the nanoscale to trigger regulatory oversight to be activated;
• Government to work with the food industry to secure more openess about their research;
• open discussion group to debate issues with representatives drawn from industry, Government, academia as well as consumer groups and NGOs.
   Leatherhead stress that they are at the forefront of a study dealing with the applications of nanotechnologies with the formation of its NanoWatch working group and also provided an overview for the House of Lords sub-committee. 
  Some issues raised by the report have potentially serious consequences, especially recommendations on the size of nanoparticles and the proportion of bulk material that would trigger regulation. Leatherhead’s work on measurement techniques for particle size indicate that this is not an easy attribute to assess. The suggestion is that more research in this area needs to be funded before legislation is drafted.
   Recognising that the needs of of the food industry are not well understood in government strategic research development, NanoKTN and Leatherhead feel that a group could provide this aspect. The Nanotechnology in Food Special Interest Group was set up by the two organisations to address these issues and the implication is that this Group could be the basis for the open discussion group mentioned in the report.
   Leatherhead, NanoKTN and NanoCentral are also planning workshops to illustrate the benefits that nanotechnologies could bring to the food industry and how these can best be communicated to consumers.
   |   13:39 13/02/2010

Expansion of silica facility
China. Cabot Corp and China National Bluestar (Group) Co Ltd have announced that Cabot (China) Ltd, subsidiary of Cabot Corp, and Bluestar New Chemical Materials Co Ltd have signed an agreement to significantly expand fumed silica capacity at the companies' joint venture plant in Jiangxi Province.
   The site will have the potential to produce up to 20,000 mt of fumed silica and will manufacture a range of products for multiple applications. During the first stage, capacity will be increased from 5,000 mt per year to more than 15,000 mt by the end of 2011. Commissioning will be staged, with incremental capacities coming on stream during 2010.
   Cabot's president and CEO Patrick Prevost welcomed the opportunity to strengthen its global fumed silica franchise, providing a reliable source of high quality material for Bluestar and global customer base. Bluestar has been Cabot's partner in China since 2004.
   The project will utilise methyltrichlorosilane byproduct from Bluestar's silicones monomer production. Bluestar's Xinhuo plant will then recycle the hydrogen chloride byproduct from the production of fumed silica as the raw material in the manufacture of methyl chloride for their silicones monomer production. 
  Bluestar founder and president of its parent company ChemChina, Ren Jianxin said that the expansion would stimulate Bluestar's silicone monomer business and allow resources to be optimised through the recycling of a byproduct stream. Bluestar owns 45 production facilities and 17 scientific research institutes around the world, with businesses spanning 150 countries and territories.
   This expansion is in lieu of a previously announced facility in Tianjin, China.
   |   14:37 08/02/2010

Bulk solids event
India. BulkSolids India 2010 takes place in Mumbai on 2 - 3 March 2010.
   Conference board chairman Vijay K Agarwal, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, said the idea is to offer participants a platform to share experiences and ideas. An exhibition accompanies the conference with more than 30 companies from the bulk solids, granules and powder industry presenting their products and services.
   The focus is on transport, storage and handling of bulk solids, granules and powder with sessions on: ports and terminals; simulation methods; energy efficiency; storing and packaging; belt conveying; pneumatic conveying; logistics and transportation; power plants; explosion protection; and environmental aspects. 
  One highlight of the event is a lecture by Professor Mark Jones, TUNRA Bulk Solids Handling Research Associates, University of Newcastle, Australia, who opens the proceedings with a keynote address on bulk solids research and its impact on industrial practice.
   Exhibitors include: B&W Mechanical Handling; Bectochem Consultants & Engineers; Bevcon Wayors; BS & B Safety Systems; Cargotec Sweden; CBC India; Forech India; Frigmaires International; Gopani Product Systems; Haver & Boecker; Haver IBAU India; Kaveri Ultra Polymers; Larsen & Toubro; Macawber Engineering Systems India; Martin Engineering; Merit Technologies India; Netzsch Technologies India; Nivo Controls; Nord Drivesystems; Nuwave Technology; Phoenix Yule; Projects Control; R & B Filter; Rembe GmbH Safety & Control; Sandwell India Consulting Engineers; Schmidt & Seeger; Sunjay Biotech Solutions; Tega Industries; Tecpro Systems; TemcorRollwell Domes Pvt; Thejo Engineering Services; Turbovent Industries; ThyssenKrupp Industries India; Trinity Touch; and WAM India.
• The full conference programme is available at: www.bulksolidsindia.com
   |   14:02 08/02/2010

Stake in Cimpor sold
Portugal. Lafarge has sold its 17.28 per cent interest in Portugal’s Cimpor to Brazilian industrial conglomerate Votorantim Group. The transaction will be completed through a stock swop.
   The move comes amid a takeover bid for Cimpor by Brazilian steelmaker Companhia Siderurgica Nacional (CSN), part of a strategy to diversify into construction and expand overseas. 
   The manoeuvrings are an indication of the growing clout of Brazil’s economy and strong interest in construction as Brazil prepares to host both the Olympics and World Cup in the next few years.
   |   11:07 04/02/2010

China hosts mining and powder event
China. The 2010 China International Mining & Powder Equipment Exhibition takes place on 31 March - 2 April 2010 at the China National Convention Center, Beijing.
   Up until now the event has been called Powder World but the organising committee decided to change the show’s name to its current title in order to more effectively reflect trends in the country’s economy. The show therefore includes all the content of previous Powder World events but with the addition of a specific mining and process exhibiting area where visitors can see all aspects of mining activities including crushing, storage, conveying and mineral processing.
   During the show, the organising committee and co-organisers will present a series of marketing reports and technical research activities to provide a platform for business expansion, brand promotion, technology and international trading. There will also be a number of forums, meetings and technical summits during the event.
   The exhibition offering includes: mining machinery and equipment; powder processing, handling and storage equipment; and powder detection, physical and chemical analysis. Ancillary equipment on display includes: valves; filter material; screening equipment; packaging materials; wear resistant material; grinding media; linings; seals; and powder processing aids. A specific section will be geared to non-metallic mineral powder and nano-powders and the activities of research institutes and associations.
   The event is organised by China Building Material Machinery Association, Science & Education Committee of China Building Materials Federation and CCPIT Building Materials Sub Council. Co-organisers include: Non-metallic Minerals Branch of Science & Education Committee of China Building Materials Federation; Mineral processing and utilisation technologies branch of China Non-Metallic Minerals Industry Association; Quartz Branch of China Architectural & Industrial Glass Association; Non-metallic Minerals Branch of China Ceramic Society; and The Association of Powder Process Industry & Engineering, JAPAN.
• Contact: The Organising Committee of Mining & Powder 2010, No 11, Sanlihe Road, Beijing, P R China 100831 Tel: +86-10-88375528 Fax: +86-10-88365655 E-mail: powderworld@ccpitbm.org Internet: www.powderworld.org
   |   09:33 01/02/2010

How clean is your silo?
UK. It’s been a year since silo specialist Braby launched its servicing division and the company is celebrating the success of its complete cleaning and maintenance solution.
   Demand for trained safe silo access staff, able to complete maintenance work under strict time constraints to minimimise plant downtime, has enabled Braby Service to demonstrate its expertise in this area. They recently completed an order with OCS for maintenance of a 30-foot flour silo at Allied Bakeries’ Cardiff bakery.
   Contractors OCS employed Braby Service to undertake a full inspection and thorough dry clean of the silo’s internal walls. Using special photographic techniques, images were obtained of the internal condition of the silo and a full report provided to OCS and Allied Bakeries.
   Roger Neal, Braby Service division manager said that specialist photography is an integral part of the package. “The exterior of the silo is usually very serviceable, but the internal condition is more difficult to establish. The option to take internal pictures of a silo helps us evaluate what may not normally be seen”, he said. Importantly, the entire cleaning and maintenance project was completed in five days.
   Allied Bakeries’ Andrew Dobbs said: “The engineers who carried out the repairs were efficient and professional in all aspects of the repairs. This coupled with the well presented method statement, risk assessment and the rescue package ensured that there were no delays in the works. I would have no hesitation in using Braby Service if the need to carry out this type of repair arose again.”
www.brabyservice.co.uk
   |   10:07 22/01/2010

Seminar covers Machinery Directive
UK. The New Machinery Directive comes into force this month and, because of demand, the PPMA (Processing and Packaging Machinery Association) has added further seminar dates outlining the legislation on the 11 and 18 February 2010.
   The one-day event provides an overview of the actual and proposed changes to this very important piece of legislation. Subjects to be covered include: partially complete machines; application to modified machinery; application to assemblies of machines; changes to health and safety requirements; changes to ISO and European standards linked to the Directive; new conformity assessment procedures; technical file compositions; new declarations of conformity and incorporation; and much more.
• Contact: christine.jordan@ppma.co.UK Tel: +44 (0) 20 8773 8111
   |   09:05 19/01/2010

Distributor for specialist bins
UK. GAME Engineering has been appointed distributors for specialist bin supplier SCE Silo Construction Engineering Limited of Belgium, bringing SCE’s range of single and twin skin bins to the UK and Ireland markets.
   The relationship is said to have developed during a successful working partnership to construct finished product blending bins for Wagg Foods. The  decision was then made to offer this service to new customers looking for a turnkey bin installation package.
  Working with SCE and other subcontractors, GAME is able to offer a design and build service for the bins, including erection, conveyor installation, feeders and other process machinery. Civil engineering, electrical engineering and control can also be provided within GAME’s turnkey packages.
   Koen Verbrugge, SCE sales engineer, said that forming the distributorship was a logical step and GAME’s project engineering manager, Stewart Brown said that bringing SCE to the UK would benefit future bin projects.
   |   13:55 18/01/2010

Hillenbrand to acquire K-Tron
USA. Hillenbrand Inc and K-Tron International Inc have signed a merger agreement under which Hillenbrand will acquire K-Tron for an estimated net purchase price of approximately $390 m.
   The boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved the deal, the directors and officers of K-Tron holding approximately 10 percent of K-Tron stock.
   Following completion of the transaction, which is expected by March 2010, K-Tron will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Hillenbrand. Kevin C Bowen, who will be president of K-Tron’s Process Group, and Donald W Melchiorre, who will be president of K-Tron’s Size Reduction Group, will continue to manage their respective businesses and report directly to Kenneth A Camp, Hillenbrand’s president and CEO. KTron’s headquarters will remain in Pitman, New Jersey.
   “We are delighted that K-Tron will be joining the Hillenbrand family of companies,” said Camp. “Although K-Tron’s products differ from ours, we are both manufacturing companies that share similar processes and core operational values.”
   Hillenbrand is the holding company for Batesville Casket Company, a leader in the North American death care industry, while K-Tron is a leading specialist in material handling equipment and systems.
   |   08:56 13/01/2010

Criticisms over nanomaterials
UK. The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee has criticised the food industry for failing to be transparent about its research into uses of nanotechnologies and nanomaterials.
   In a report entitled Nanotechnologies and Food , the Committee argue that the approach of food companies in not publishing or discussing details of its research in this area is unhelpful. Whilst acknowledging the industry’s concerns about negative public reactions to developments, it asserts that appearing to be secretive about its research could bring about the public reaction it is trying to avert.
   The Committee also urges Government and Research Councils to adequately fund research into potential health and safety risks arising from the use of these materials.
   Significant gaps are reported in understanding how they impact on the human body and the risks associated with specific nanomaterials. Only a limited amount of research is currently carried out into toxicological impact of nanomaterials, with just one research team working on the impact of nanomaterials on the gut in the UK.
   The report recommends a publicly available register of food and food packaging containing nanomaterials maintained by the Food Standards Agency, rather than blanket labelling all food products that contain the materials. There are calls for nanomaterials to be defined clearly in food legislation to ensure that uses in food are subject to appropriate risk assessment procedures.
   The report also recommends that Government work with other EU nations to clarify what is meant by "properties that are characteristic to the nanoscale", a phrase in the draft definition proposed for the revised Novel Foods Regulation, by including in legislation a more detailed list of what these properties comprise.
   Concerns about the illegal importation of food products containing nanomaterials not approved for use in food in the EU are also voiced. Tests to check for their presence are not yet available to border and port authorities, says the Committee.
   Lord Krebs, who chaired the inquiry, said that use in food and food packaging is likely to grow significantly over the next decade, delivering potentially significant benefits, but it is important that research into potential health and safety implications is undertaken now to ensure that possible risks are identified.
   |   09:04 08/01/2010

Webinar on processing
USA. K-Tron Process Group, in collaboration with Hosokawa Micron Powder Systems, is presenting a complimentary technical webinar entitled Innovations in continuous processing which will take place on 10 February 2010 at 2:00 pm (EST).
   The aim is to offer pharmaceutical and food processors the latest detailed process information about continuous mixing and loss-in-weight feeding. The presentation covers developments in continuous feeding and refill operations, with an emphasis on continuous blending for processing of multiple ingredients.
   The intention is to offer an objective technical overview and introduce participants to methods that will improve both current operations and utilise new technologies. Course material is aimed at scientists, engineers, production and manufacturing personnel, researchers, formulation scientists, product development and process transfer personnel.
• For free registration please visit: www.ktron.com/webinars
   |  15:47 31/12/2009

Engineering career choices
UK. A new paper released by EngineeringUK, formerly the Engineering and Technology Board (ETB), finds engineering and technology graduates to be highly employable, with 94.3 per cent in work three years after graduation, second only to medicine and dentistry.
   The paper finds that median salary for engineering and technology graduates three years on is £28,000, with only medicine, dentistry and veterinary science edging ahead. It also reveals that 74 per cent of engineering and technology graduates who enter employment go into engineering and technology related occupations, contrary to popular belief.
   The paper, entitled, Where Do Engineering Graduates Go?, also reveals that one third of engineering and technology applications in 2007/08 were from non-UK domiciled students, up five per cent since 2001/02 when 28 per cent of applicants were from non-UK domiciles. This long term rising trend of increasing engineering applications from outside the UK is particularly prominent at higher degree level, where only 27.2 per cent are UK domiciled compared to 44.9 per cent across all subjects.
   EngineeringUK’s chief executive Paul Jackson says that whilst engineering graduate numbers continue to increase due to strong employability and salary levels, there remains a rising trend in overseas engineering applications compared to home students. The implications for UK business and education systems are as yet undetermined.
   EngineeringUK says that there is a need to work together to investigate this trend and its potential effect on UK technological competitiveness, with the aim of creating a sustainable UK engineering workforce, as well as a strong international one.
   |   12:39 30/12/2009

Food reduces carbon
UK. As representatives from more than 180 countries gather for talks in Copenhagen to tackle climate change, a new report by the Food and Drink Federation (FTF) reveals that UK food and drink manufacturers have reduced their carbon emissions by 19 per cent since 1990 – the equivalent of 1mt of CO2.
   FDF members are committed to reducing CO2 emissions by 20 per cent by 2010 against a 1990 baseline and the new figures suggest that they are on target to meet the longer-term aspiration of a 30 per cent reduction by 2020.
   The FDF also announce that, as part of its commitment to send zero food and packaging waste to landfill, it has conducted 13 detailed waste prevention reviews in conjunction with WRAP to promote best practice across the sector. 23 FDF members have also signed the Courtauld Agreement to reduce waste packaging, while 15 members have joined a labelling scheme to provide consumers with standardised on-pack information about recyclability.
   |   09:52 09/12/2009

Graeme Hughes

New sales office
UK. German level measurement specialist, UWT Level Control, is opening its first sales office in the UK.
   Leading it is Graeme Hughes who has been supporting UWT clients since October 2009 and now has the objective of increasing the profile of UWT products such as Rotonivo, Vibranivo, Nivobob and Nivowave.
   Mr Hughes has extensive knowledge of quarrying, steel/paper manufacturing and mining. He said that after many years of working in a wide range of industrial markets, he is looking forward to providing level measurement solutions to UK clients.
  The Shrewsbury-based office joins other successful subsidiaries of UWT in Germany, USA and China.
www.uwtuk.com
   |   15:54 04/12/2009

Powder flow seminar
UK. Leading scientists are to present work on powder flow measurement and understanding at an forthcoming seminar in London.
   Powder Flow 2009: Practice, theory, visualisation and meaning is a one-day event organised by The Formulation Group of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) in conjunction with Freeman Technology and in association with Dechema.
   It takes place on 16 December 2009 at the RSC headquarters and has three major themes: practical aspects of powder flow measurement; powder flow visualisation; and application of theory in understanding powder behaviour. The seminar programme covers the most up-to-date knowledge and practice regarding powder interactions and structuring.
   Leading scientists will present work on measuring and understanding powder flow, looking at powder rheology as a tool to elucidate particulate interactions in phenomena such as fluidisation, aerosolisation and handling of solid particulate matter. Theory of powder flow and visualisation using the latest laser technology will also be presented.
   Poster presentations are invited and there are also opportunities to sponsor and exhibit. The seminar is aimed at both academic and industrial researchers and applies to a range of material processing industries from fine chemicals through to pharmaceuticals, foods and cosmetics.
www.powderflow.com
   |   10:30 02/12/2009

Results for cement
France. Third quarter results for building materials group Lafarge continue to be influenced by economic slowdown with sales down 20 per cent to €4,252 and operating income down 28 per cent to €852m.
  However, emerging markets income (excluding Central and Eastern Europe) rose 19 per cent year-to-date with significant cost savings and control in capital expenditure and a net reduction in debt of €3.2bn over the last twelve months.
   Chairman and CEO Bruno Lafont said that the international economic slowdown showed early signs of stabilisation in the third quarter and anticipated that volumes in mature markets may start to recover in the second half of 2010. Annual cement volumes in Lafarge's markets are nevertheless expected to decline by 6 to 8 per cent in 2009.
   |   10:52 06/11/2009

Coal outlook for the east
Singapore. Coal Markets 2010 takes place in Singapore on 28 - 29 January 2010. Now in its eighth year, it is regarded as Asia's most comprehensive and focused industry outlook, exploring key supply sources and demand drivers to address the issues surrounding supply security, pricing and coal trade risk management.
   Supported by key stakeholders, the event brings together buyers from Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Philippines and producers from Indonesia, Australia, India, Vietnam and Mongolia, addressing the crucial issues surrounding coal supply/demand dynamics.
   There is an expert panel of speakers and presenters, with two keynote addresses from leading industry figures that include Dr Bambang Setiawan, Director General of Mineral, Coal and Geothermal at Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, and Dr Fatih Birol, Chief Economist at the International Energy Agency. Delegates can look forward to market updates from India and China, as well as New Mining Law in Indonesia and its implications.
• For more information Tel: +65 6514 3180 Fax: +65 6733 5087
email: register@ibcasia.com.sg
www.coalmarketsasia.com
   |   20:35 04/11/2009

Safety first audience
UK. An international audience of process safety experts is attending the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) Hazards XXI symposium on 9 - 12 November 2009 at the Manchester Conference Centre with this year's event focussed on current challenges in process safety and environmental protection.
   There are around 100 presentations and keynote contributions by the US Chemical Safety Board’s John Bresland, safety expert Trevor Kletz and Sam Mannan from the Mary Kay O’Connor Process Safety Centre in Texas.
   Bresland is using the Burgoyne Memorial Lecture to re-examine lessons learned in process safety incidents ranging from sugar to oil refineries. Kletz will review ICI’s contribution to process safety and Mannan is presenting an analysis of the Buncefield explosion and fire.
   Parallel session themes include: safety management; new process safety technology; sharing safety knowledge; HAZOP; safe process design; safety performance indicators; compliance with standards; risk assessment and analysis; emerging energy technologies; and human factors and behaviour.
   Speakers at the conference dinner include Health and Safety Executive chairman Judith Hackitt and Bill Giles, retired head of the BBC weather centre.
www.icheme.org/hazardsxxi
   |   16:27 22/10/2009

Cement plant contract
Libya. FLSmidth has signed a contract worth around €130m with Libyan company Al Hadena National Co to supply equipment and design buildings and structures for a 4,600 t per day cement plant located near Nalout some 280 km southwest of Tripoli. The plant is the first cement plant project for newly established Al Hadena National Co.
   The contract comprises a crusher, stacker/reclaimer, raw mill, pyro line with cooler, cement mills, four cement silos and a complete packing plant. FLSmidth is also supplying all electrical and control equipment as well as laboratory equipment.
   Libya is continuously developing its infrastructure, and with this recent contract FLSmidth is providing the nation's three latest cement plants supporting this development, said Group CEO Jørgen Huno Rasmussen. Plant commissioning will take place during 2011.
   |   17:55 19/10/2009

New venue for exhibition
China. IPB, the International Powder/Bulk Conference & Exhibition (IPB), regarded as the largest and most specialised international trade fair for powder, granule and bulk solids technology in China, takes place in Shanghai on 9 - 11 December 2009. NürnbergMesse China, new organisers of the event, are staging it at a new venue, the Shanghai INTEX site.
   IPB is jointly organised by the Chinese Society of Particuology, NürnbergMesse China Co Ltd and Worldwide Exhibitions Co Ltd, with support from Powtech Nuremberg, Germany. Around 200 exhibitors and more than 6,000 visitors are expected to attend.
   In the light of economic conditions, the organisers say that they are placing special emphasis on improvements in the quality of the show following visitor and exhibitor feedback from last year’s event, and plans are afoot to introduce a special themed area to represent the most promising business area of the year.
   A parallel workshop entitled Established standards for particle analysis, organised by the Chinese Society of Particuology, will cover differences between particle analysis standards in China and overseas. Further seminars and workshops cover topics such as bulk material conveyor, filling and silo delivery and preventing and reducing the risk of dust explosion.
   The first Powtech pavilion included in the event has enterprises such as Hosokawa, Netzsch-Condux, Coperion, GE Energy, Sympatec, UWT and Zeppelin exhibiting.
www.ipbexpo.com
   |   11:38 14/10/2009

Innovations in food processing
USA. K-Tron Process Group, in collaboration with key suppliers of equipment and instrumentation to the food processing industry, including Sweco, Quadro Engineering, Eriez and Matcon, are presenting a joint food processing seminar entitled Innovations in Food Processing in Dallas, USA on 4 November 2009.
   The free one-day event includes detailed process and analytical information about key topics and trends in the food processing industry. The seminar will examine a wide variety of important processing issues, offer an objective technical overview of these processes and introduce processors to methods of improving current processes and utilising new technologies.
   Topics include: How to choose the proper feeder technology for mixing, extrusion or size reduction processes - K-Tron Feeders; Improving efficiencies in the processing stream: Size reduction - Quadro; Improving efficiencies in the processing stream: Mixing - Quadro; Contaminant removal technologies - Eriez; Food process screening and waster water clean up - Sweco; IBC technology and lean powder processing - Matcon; and Pneumatic conveying applications in the food industry - K-Tron Premier.
For more information and online registration visit: www.ktron.com/seminars
   |   19:45 07/10/2009

Acquisition of Cemex Australia
Australia. Following the approval of the Australian authorities, Holcim has successfully completed the acquisition of Cemex Australia which will now trade as Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd. The move enables Holcim to include the country in its mature market strategy of being active in the cement as well as in the aggregates and ready-mix concrete business.
   Holcim Australia's most important market positions are located in the country’s more densely populated eastern and southeastern states and in the Western Australian mining belt, amongst the fastest growing regions.
   The purchase price of AUD 2.02 bn has been entirely financed with the proceeds from a capital increase in July this year and includes 100 per cent of the share capital of Holcim Australia and a 25 percent interest in Cement Australia, in which Holcim already holds a 50 per cent shareholding.
  Holcim, one of the world's leading suppliers of cement and aggregates, as well as other activities such as ready-mix concrete and asphalt, has majority and minority holdings in businesses in around 70 countries.
   |   20:10 02/10/2009

Ingo Jonas and Frans Maas lead the Chronos BTH subsidiary in Eersel, Netherlands

New force in market
UK. Premier Tech, parent company of Chronos Richardson, has acquired the packaging specialist Bag Treatment Holland BV (BTH).
   Located in the Netherlands, BTH will be merged with Chronos Richardson creating a team of specialists and experts with wide industry know-how. From 1 October 2009, Chronos Richardson and BTH combined will operate under the name Chronos BTH both in Europe and Asia with an extensive product portfolio in the areas of bag packaging and palletising solutions as well as load security. The new entity will continue to operate from sites in Germany, Italy, England, France, Thailand and the Netherlands.
   Equipment on offer includes: state-of-the-art weighing and control systems; a range of bagging systems with customised packaging solutions for open-mouth bags, valve bags, FFS technology, bulk containers as well as mobile bagging equipment; conventional palletising and advanced robotic solutions; and stretch hooding and wrapping systems.
  The aim is to provide customers with a single source for well engineered packaging solutions, ranging from manual packaging equipment to fully-automated integrated system solutions covering all stages from bulk material reception and packaging up to securing cargo ready for dispatch and loading.
   BTH's know-how, particularly in the area of open bag equipment and pallet securing systems, complements the Chronos portfolio, providing customers with optimised customised packaging solutions in industry segments such as food, pet food and fodder, dairy, agriculture, horticulture, building materials, chemicals, etc.
   Eersel, in the Netherlands, will become the new Centre of Competence for core areas of R & D, engineering, assembly and test centre for the combined company serving Europe, Middle East and Africa. Parma in Italy will be responsible specifically for all Mediterranean countries and markets.
   Chronos BTH Europe will be jointly led by Frans Maas, the previous owner and general manager of BTH, and Ingo Jonas, former general manager of Chronos Richardson Systems GmbH in Hennef, Germany. Cornelis A Van Drent and Ricardo Taino will continue to manage their respective operations in Asia from the Thailand office and in Italy from the Parma office.
   Ingo Jonas will handle sales, distribution, marketing and customer service while Frans Maas will be responsible for R & D, engineering, operation and manufacturing teams.
   Explaining the reasoning behind the move, Frans Maas said that in order to equip BTH for the future and to continue the growth of the past 14 years, a strong partner was required so that BTH products could be marketed worldwide. Premier Tech and its business unit, Chronos Richardson was considered to be the ideal partner and the new company now has a strong and experienced 190-strong team operating in Europe.
   Chronos BTH, with its sister companies Premier Tech Systems and Chronos BTH Asia, is part of Premier Tech's Industrial Equipment Group (IEG), which has more than 700 team members worldwide. The acquisition, the second this year for IEG, follows the integration of Stonepak in the USA, part of Premier Tech's aim to focus on leadership in technology and innovative cutting-edge products supported by strong commercial initiatives.
   Ingo Jonas commented that the integration of BTH was an important strategic step to develop and strengthen its position in the market and underlines its commitment to the European customer base. He said that customers would be offered an even broader product portfolio, based on innovative technologies, all over Europe, with flexibility, precision, quality, competitive offers and local presence central to the requirements of the markets and its customers.
   Chronos BTH sites in Hennef (Germany), Nottingham (UK) and Viry-Châtillon (France) will continue to function as customer service centres, and the new company will present itself for the first time at this year's Fachpack in Nuremberg, Germany and at the PPMA show in Birmingham, UK.
   |   14:24 24/09/2009

Exhibition gears up
Germany. The stage is set for the next Powtech, the leading exhibition for mechanical processing technologies and instrumentation, which takes place in Nuremberg on 27 - 29 April 2010. In addition to TechnoPharm, the international trade fair for pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics, which runs in parallel with it, WCPT6, the World Congress on Particle Technology, is running concurrently, starting a day earlier on 26 April.
   Over the last two decades, Powtech has been the leading exhibition for mechanical processing technologies in the chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food, paint and coatings, quarrying and earthworks, and ceramics sectors. The organisers say that exhibitor interest is uninterrupted, despite the current economic climate.
   Their view is that the comprehensive spectrum of products and services on display, coupled with special shows and presentations, provide the necessary information and inspiration for companies to gain major competitive advantage in these difficult times.
   WCPT6, supported by the Partec Congress, takes place for the first time in parallel with the Powtech/TechnoPharm events, dealing with latest findings and experiences from all sectors of particle technology. Over 1,000 scientists from around the globe will be able to compare their research activities over four days of the event. Delft University of Technology and the company DSM are responsible for organising the congress.
• More information from:
www.powtech.de
www.technopharm.de
www.wcpt6.org
   |   11:59 23/09/2009

Don't miss the knowledge
UK. Booked your place at the SHAPA one-day Knowledge Conference yet? If not, there’s still time. It takes place on 5 October 2009 at the Imago Holywell Park Conference Centre in Leicestershire and is a key event in the solids handling industry calendar.
   Users of solids handling equipment will have the opportunity to hear about the latest regulatory issues, their interpretation and implementation, learn ways to minimise cost and maximise profit and gain information from foremost authorities in the industry on the latest thinking in solids handling techniques.
   The agenda includes keynote addresses by Iain Evans of the Health and Safety Executive on Regulation, compliance and enforcement policy and the Environment Agency’s Martin Bigg will cover Better regulation, better Industry .
   Two parallel streams of presentations, one covering commercial and compliance topics, the other dealing with a wide range of solids handling technologies, allow delegates to select individual sessions tailored to their needs. In addition, there will also be the opportunity to speak with SHAPA members who will illustrate their company's capabilities via table top displays.
• To view the full agenda and to secure your place at this key event log on to:
www.shapa.co.uk or email SHAPA at: info@shapa.co.uk
   |   12:57 22/09/2009

Pictured at the centre of the group: Mike Lynott, chairman of Frampton Cotterell RFC with Martyn Brighton (left) of Brighton Williams, and Paul Mayer (right) from Braby

Fundraising challenge
UK. A team from Bristol aluminium and stainless steel silo manufacturers, Braby, are preparing for the Run for the Future race on 20 September, going head to head with another locally based business, Brighton Williams.
   The 5 km run, which raises money for Bristol Urological Institute’s Prostate Cancer Appeal, will see Braby’s sales and marketing director Paul Mayer compete against his wife Caroline, who is running for the Brighton Williams team.
   The challenge between the two companies was made at a local rugby match in April, which was staged in memorial to Derek Mayer, Paul’s father, who recently passed away from the disease. Paul Mayer and the Braby team say that they are determined to help prevent other men losing their lives in the same way.
   Players from both clubs have also pledged to take part in the run which takes place on the Bristol Downs at 12 noon. Donations to Bristol Urological Institute’s Appeal can be made at:
www.runforthefuture.org
   |   10:14 16/09/2009

Upcoming courses
USA. Jenike & Johanson is organising a series of courses on Flow of solids in bins, hoppers, chutes and feeders and Pneumatic conveying of bulk solids which take place in Chicago on 13 - 15 October 2009 and Atlanta on 7 - 9 December 2009.
   The two-day Flow of solids in bins, hoppers, chutes and feeders course will enable delegates to learn about a wide range of equipment types and solutions to flow problems commonly associated with them. The aim is to provide a better understanding of how friction, cohesion, compressibility and other properties affect solids flow through feeders, chutes, reactors, bins and hoppers and how to specify and select the best hardware to suit to various bulk solid flow problems and objectives. Retrofitting existing equipment to correct problems is included.
   The one-day Pneumatic conveying of bulk solids event will help delegates understand common problems which occur during pneumatic conveying, principles of operation, and how to evaluate in-plant systems and determine effectiveness. Troubleshooting the source of conveying problems and applying various solutions to improve efficiency will also be covered.
• To register for the course contact ASME Tel: 1-800-843-2763 or contact: courses09@jenike.com for further details.
   |   10:49 11/09/2009

Sales organisation appointed
USA. K-Tron Process Group has announced that Mills-Winfield Eng Sales Inc is the new representative organisation serving northern Illinois, northeastern Indiana, eastern Iowa, and Wisconsin.
   Mills-Winfield will represent both the K-Tron Feeder and K-Tron Premier brands bringing over 75 years experience in bulk material handling, with a focus on process engineering in food, pharmaceuticals, plastics, petrochemicals and minerals. The company’s expertise encompasses feeding, pneumatic conveying, screening and drying, and includes air and gas processing applications. Its offices are located in Glendale Heights, Illinois and Madison, Wisconsin.
   Commenting on the appointment, John Winski, sales director for the K-Tron feeder brand, said that the new representative offers many years experience in dry bulk material handling with process experience and knowledge.
   Speaking about the move, Stuart Wilson, sales director for the K-Tron Premier brand, said that there is a trend in all industries served to provide complete systems including feeding and pneumatic conveying or material transfer systems. Customers will therefore be able to work with Mills-Winfield to define requirements and be able to issue a single order for a total solution from a reliable and experienced supplier.
   In addition to K-Tron Process Group, Mills-Winfield also represents Carrier, Cyclonaire, Gardner Denver, Kelair, Lightnin, PEBCO, Quadro, Rotex, and Spiroflow.
Tel: +1 (630) 924-1208
   |   15:11 24/08/2009

Characterising metal powders
South Africa. A team of researchers at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa has taken delivery of an FT4 powder tester from Freeman Technology.
  The system will be used in conjunction with understanding and controlling the behaviour of powders used to produce metal components. Installation also included a a two-day, on-site training programme conducted by a specialist from Freeman’s team.
   CSIR is one of Africa's leading research establishments and the new equipment will be used in the Metal and Metals Processes area, part of the Materials Science and Manufacturing Operating Unit. Scientists using the system are responsible for material characterisation and developing new materials and processes for manufacturing powdered metals. There is a particular interest in die filling and making pressed metal components for aerospace, automotive and medical applications.
   Because of the high value of many of the metal powders, which include platinum and titanium, only low volumes are available for investigation. The ability of the FT4 to work with just 25 ml samples for dynamic measurement and down to as little as 1 ml for shear cell testing, enables rapid and fully automated powder characterisation.
   A paper, entitled "Characterisation of powder bulk, dynamic flow and shear properties in relation to die filling" and which was presented at the 2008 World Congress On Powder Metallurgy and Particulate Materials in Washington, DC is available for download from Freeman’s website.
www.freemantech.co.uk
   |   16:56 22/08/2009

Particle technology world congress
Germany. The final call for papers for the World Congress on Particle Technology (WCPT6 2010) expires on 15 September 2009. The event takes place on 26 - 29 April 2010 in Nuremberg in conjunction with POWTECH and TechnoPharm exhibitions as well as the PARTEC Congress.
   WCPT will concentrate and discuss the latest findings and experiences from all segments of particle technology, with over 1,500 scientists from around the world comparing their research findings over the four days of the event.
   "Together with POWTECH, the world's largest exhibition for powder and bulk solids technology, WCPT is next year's outstanding scientific forum for sourcing information on particle technology," says Claus Rättich, Member of the Management Board of NürnbergMesse. The aim of WCPT is not only to present scientific findings, but also to promote the exchange of views and meetings between the various disciplines and between universities and industry.
   Delft University of Technology and the company DSM, both from the Netherlands, are responsible for the technical organisation of the congress. Conference topics include aerosol science and technology, nanoparticles, models and simulation of particulate systems, granulation, and science and engineering of particulate processes.
   The last event took place in Florida, USA from 23 - 27 April 2006, attracting more than 700 participants from around the globe.
www.wcpt6.org
   |   12:27 25/07/2009

Process safety initiative
UK. The Process Safety Leadership Group (PSLG) of the Chemical Industries Association (CIA), made up of key representatives from high hazard industries has just launched a set of key principles to enhance the safety of its industrial processes.
   The Process Safety Principles set out eight guidelines emphasising the importance of strong leadership from the board to the factory floor to manage the risks of potentially dangerous industrial processes. Companies will now be expected to show real progress towards learning from previous incidents and improving the management and control of process safety hazards.
   The CIA says that the Principles are consistent with the elements of the chemical industry's Responsible Care programme - the cornerstone of effective and responsible management of operations by CIA member companies.
   Stephen Elliott, CIA Chief Executive, said "the chemical industry has a good record on process safety and learning from other sectors, and in response to the Buncefield and Texas City incidents we published a Best Practice Guide in 2008 based on detailed research of leadership in our member companies. But we can never be complacent and must always be looking for continuous improvement.”
   The launch of Process Safety Principles are a reminder that responsible industry leaders must ensure that risks from high hazard processes to employees and to the general population around chemical sites must be minimised.
   |   12:27 25/07/2009

Tyre plant closure
Philippines. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today announced that it will close its tyre plant in the country as part of a strategy to address uncompetitive manufacturing capacity globally.
   The action, expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter, will result in a reduction of approximately 500 of the company's 600 associates there, with sales and marketing operations in the country remaining unaffected.
   Closure of the Las Pinas plant will result in a reduction of nearly 2m units of annual production capacity, part of a strategy to remove 15 - 25 m units of capacity over the next two years, with production transferred to other lower cost plants in the Asia-Pacific region.
   "Due to high costs compared to other plants in the region, tyres produced in the Las Pinas plant are not competitive in the marketplace," said Pierre E Cohade, president of Goodyear's Asia-Pacific Region. Goodyear says that it remains committed to its business in the Philippines where it has had a presence since 1919, with the Las Pinas plant opened in 1956. The company expects to record around $20 m in charges associated with the closure in the third quarter of 2009.
   |   16:08 23/07/2009

Bulk event imminent
Australia. Peter Wypych, Chairman of CHoPS (6th International Conference for Conveying and Handling of Particulate Solids) and ICBMH (10th International Conference on Bulk Materials Storage, Handling and Transportation) has sent us a timely reminder that these events are taking place in Brisbane Australia on 3 - 7 August 2009. The conferences run in parallel with Bulkex 2009, the Asia-Pacific Bulk Materials Handling Exhibition.
   Over 140 Papers from 29 Countries will be presented at the CHoPS + ICBMH conference, covering nano, particle, powder and bulk material technologies.
  Areas of interest include: computer simulations and validations; design, production and processing of particulates; environmental aspects and dust hazards; fluidisation; measurement, control and instrumentation; mechanical conveying and feeding; modelling and fundamentals; particle and bulk characterisation; particle and powder technology; pneumatic, hydraulic and capsule conveying; segregation and mixing; and storage, flow and handling.
• Bulkex runs on 4 - 6 August 2009 (www.bulkex.com.au )
• CHoPS+ICBMH registration and conference information can be accessed at www.chops2009.org.au
• email: wypych@uow.edu.au
   |   12:06 21/07/2009

Standard extensively revised
USA. ASTM International Committee E29 on Particle and spray characterisation has just approved an extensive revision of ASTM standard E11 - Specification for wire cloth and sieves for testing purposes - a revision aimed at improving quality control of sieve cloths and test sieves.
   ASTM E11 is under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee E29.01 on Sieves, sieving methods and screening media. With the revised standard, users will be able to purchase test sieves that conform to both E11 and ISO 3310-1 - Test Sieves — Technical requirements and testing.
   According to E29 member Richard Campbell, Newark Wire Cloth Co, the revised E11 includes standard deviation as one of the parameters for sieve cloth and test sieve evaluation. “By including the standard deviation, the minimum acceptable aperture size is controlled by distribution of aperture size rather than just considering the overall average opening size and only limiting the maximum individual opening size of the sieve cloth,” says Mr Campbell.
   Campbell explains that E11 now provides for test sieves that can be supplied in three different grades - compliance, inspection and calibration - with each grade based on the confidence level of the sieve cloth/test sieve. Table 1 in the revised standard includes nominal dimensions and permissible variations for the sieve cloth itself and inspection criteria for compliance, inspection and calibration grade test sieves.
   Criteria specified for each grade include: compliance grade supplied with basic documentation — a certificate of conformance; inspection grade supplied with documentation having limited inspection data; and calibration grade supplied with documentation showing more detailed inspection data. The calibration grade test sieve has twice as many apertures measured during the inspection process, providing a greater confidence level for users.
   Although the revision to E11 is complete, ASTM is encouraging interested parties to join the standards developing activities of Subcommittee E29.01 which is currently working on a proposed new standard, WK23197 - Guide for industrial woven wire filter cloth . Those with a technical knowledge or users of filter cloth are particularly requested to join.
www.astm.org
   |   11:17 21/07/2009

Auto bagging and palletising
UK. An existing Chronos manual bagging system has been upgraded to automatic operation at Potters Ballotini Ltd based in Barnsley, UK. This company is an international manufacturer of highway safety and engineered glass material products, with small granular particles up to 1000 microns in diameter.
   The new automatic system installed utilises a CHRONO-FILL™ OML600 bagging system and CHRONO-PAL™ RP robot palletiser to pack and palletise a variety of reflective glass spheres into plastic lined paper pillow type bags. The system incorporates a customer specified over-tape and sealing system for optimum bag sealing and presentation.
   An additional feature, integrated into the automatic bagging and palletising system, allows the robot palletiser to carefully mimic the original manual bagging system operation. This routine ensures that there is the optimum degree of bag overlapping during the layer formation part of the palletising process to ensure maximum pallet stability and warehouse space utilisation.
   Chronos engineers designed, built, installed and commissioned the system, which includes full CE light barrier safety systems and safety guarding.
   Chronos Richardson UK Ltd incorporates Richard Simon Ltd, Verville and r Tech Systems for European spares, refurbishment, service, installation and commissioning.
Tel: +44(0) 115 935 1351
   |   17:46 19/07/2009

Knowledge event
UK. The SHAPA Knowledge Conference is a one-day event taking place at Imago Holywell Park Conference Centre on the Loughborough University site in Leicestershire on the 5 October 2009.
   One key aspect of the event is the opportunity to hear about the latest regulatory issues and, importantly, how best to interpret and implement them. Delegates will also gain an insight into how best to minimise cost and maximise profit and the latest ideas and thinking in solids handling techniques presented by leading authorities in their field.
   There will be keynote addresses by Iain Evans, Health and Safety Executive, on Regulation, compliance and enforcement policy with the Environment Agency’s Martin Bigg’s presentation covering Better regulation, better industry . Delegates can select individual sessions from two parallel streams of presentations, one covering commercial and compliance topics and the other dealing with a range of solids handling technologies.
   In addition to the presentations there will be the opportunity to speak with SHAPA members who will be illustrating their capabilities at tabletop displays.
   SHAPA, the Solids Handling and Processing Association, is regarded as the voice of the industry and the UK's leading specialist association in its field, growning to become the foremost authority in technical, commercial, legal and professional matters relating to the industry. Its 100+ membership consists of companies who supply equipment, services and systems for handling and processing bulk solids and powders, offering a vast amount of knowledge and experience for solving solids handling problems.
• To secure a place at the conference either apply on line at www.shapa.co.uk or contact SHAPA by telephone on + 44 (0) 116 2713704 or email info@shapa.co.uk. The full agenda can be viewed at www.shapa.co.uk
   |   19:59 16/07/2009

Question mark over Wilton
UK. Dow’s recent announcement that it intends to close its Wilton plant in Teesside has put Croda International’s operation there into jeopardy, making it no longer economically viable and forcing closure of its nearby plant which uses raw materials from the Dow site.
   Wilton is the only UK location currently making ethylene oxide, a strategic raw material for the chemical sector and central to the production of goods ranging from antifreeze to soaps and paints to make up. Dow has blamed the closure on a drop in demand, exacerbated by the recession and the high cost of raw material at the site.
   Dow says that it will walk away from the plant in January 2010 where 55 staff are directly employed. Croda is currently consulting its 125 Wilton staff with the intention of closing its plant in 2010.
   In a press statement, Unite union has warned that the closure of such a strategically vital plant could trigger a crisis across the chemical industry with job losses snowballing to over 3000 in total throughout the sector.
  Ethylene oxide, hazardous to transport and with its movement regulated, tends to locate businesses purchasing the material to cluster near the source plant. Unite is campaigning to find a solution to the threatened closure and has urged the government to take a leading role to save jobs and preserve the estimated £560m Wilton contributes to the UK balance of payments every year.
   | 12:07 15/07/2009

System tames difficult powder
UK. Solids handling equipment specialist, Ajax Equipment is supplying Hosokawa Micron Ltd with a hopper and screw feeder as part of a turnkey powder processing system designed for pre-conditioning potassium carbonate powder during agrochemical manufacture.
   The 5 cu m hopper is designed to receive potassium carbonate powder from big bags, the batch held in the hopper measured by load cells and subsequently discharged by screw feeder into a process reactor. Potassium carbonate powder, a notoriously difficult to handle material, has characteristics that range from sluggish when stored and compacted to light and fluffy when aerated or loosely poured. It can also be prone to caking. Mass flow is therefore the preferred method of dealing with it, avoiding stagnant zones and ensuring flow through the smallest outlets.
   Using the measured flow properties of the powder, Ajax has been able to come up with a mass flow hopper design that features steep walls and a long slot outlet to the screw feeder with a progressive pitch on the flights. In addition, Lynflow ribbon flights and stepped shaft have been utilised to ensure that the entire hopper contents move in a mass flow pattern during discharge, achieving smooth powder transfer at the rate of 200 kg per min. Both hopper and screw feeder are gas tight and equipment complies with ATEX Zone 2 requirements.
   Eddie McGee, technical director, Ajax Equipment said that the V-shaped tapered bottom section is designed to encourage mass flow during discharge. “Of course the screw feeder has to fully serve the long length of the hopper outlet to avoid any stagnant zones, so we have to take a lot of care in selecting the geometry of the screw flights and shaft,” he explained.
  Kristien Barrett, sales manager, Hosokawa Micron Ltd said that Ajax Equipment had been chosen because of its successful use of equipment in similar applications and proven ability to design and manufacture hoppers and screw feeders capable of handling this type of powder.
Tel: +44 (0) 1204 386723
   | 10:44 10/07/2009  

Mixing line for detergents
Norway. Norwegian-based company Unitor Chemicals AS has invested in a new Forberg mixing line for detergents. The F-1000 twin shaft batch mixer forms the heart of a new production line with a nominal capacity of 1000 litres per batch. The result is said to be vastly improved end product quality and increased production capacity.
   Expressing satisfaction with the mixer’s performance, Rune Kristiansen, factory manager for Unitor, said that batch time had been considerably decreased. The company produces powdered detergents in the unit which involves feeding raw materials directly from big-bags, with the mixing of dry products and spraying of liquids taking place in one operation. Two large bomb doors in the bottom of the unit discharge into a reception bin fitted with a screw feeder. Mixed product is subsequently discharged into barrels, automatically transported onto a scale and filled with product to a preset weight.
   Forberg has both mild and stainless steel production capabilities and is located in Larvik, Norway, producing mixers, dryers, vacuum coaters and other specialised machinery for international markets in food, animal feed, fish feed, pet food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, building industry, etc.
Contact: Hilde Nordahl Tel: +47 33 13 34 34
   |   16:16 08/07/2009

Sizeable contract award
Eire. Despite difficult times in the European dairy industry some companies still continue to invest. Lakeland Dairies in Bailieboro, Ireland has placed a €11m contract with GEA Process Eng, with GEA Process Technology Ireland Ltd coordinating the execution of the order.
   The new facility will manufacture dairy-based powders such as whole milk, skim milk and buttermilk powder. Eight GEA companies with provide specialist services including: an evaporator from GEA PE France; dryer from GEA Niro; powder conveying equipment from GEA Colby; and powder packing line from GEA Avapac. Built next to an existing factory, the new plant will utilise common services from an existing but upgraded centralised utilities centre.
   Powder manufactured in the dryer has to be transported gently, to avoid breakdown of the sensitive powder particles, to new silos and from there to a new 25-kg sack bagging lines, an FIBC system and bulk filling system.
   Despite the current poor returns in the international marketplace for most dairy products, Mary Coughlan TD (Assembly Delegate), Irish Minister for Agriculture and Food, expects the Irish dairy industry to show growth over the coming years as a consequence of the gradual relaxation of the EU's production quota system and the need to increase output per farm to maintain farm incomes.
   The processing output from the new dryer will represent one of the biggest capacity plants in Ireland at 7mt per hr, with the corresponding evaporator capacity to feed the dryer and dense-phase powder handling capacity to remove finished powder from the dryer. The 25-kg bagging line (including a pre-gassing system), rated at 12 mt per hr powder packed, will operate at this guaranteed rate and is the first order received by GEA Avapac in Europe for their Low Intervention Packing Line.
   Paddy Kenna, MD of GEA Process Technology Ireland Ltd said that as the sole process equipment supplier on this project, GEA Process Eng will be responsible for the supply, installation, supervision and commissioning of all processing equipment, and sees the award as a recognition of the company’s competency as an experienced provider in this area. The contract is also regarded as a major breakthrough for future involvement in further Irish dairy industry developments.
   GEA PT Ireland will help other relevant GEA companies in the planning and implementation phases with GEA Process Eng providing final product quality guarantees - as well as other guarantees relating to the plant, installation and commissioning and the final product.
   Construction is expected to start in July 2009 with commercial production scheduled for the end of the first quarter of 2010.
Tel: +353 45 981200
   |   11:18 30/06/2009

Development for far east
Switzerland. The K-Tron Process Group announce that Richard J Poole has assumed responsibility for all sales activities in the entire EMEA-Asia region. With over 20 years experience with the Group as a material handling equipment and systems specialist in a wide variety of industrial markets, he is a graduate of University of Newcastle upon Tyne.
   Mr Poole has substantial marketing experience with K-Tron America Inc in the US and as sales manager at K-Tron (Switzerland) Ltd and K-Tron Deutschland GmbH in Germany. In his new postion as sales director EMEA/Asia, he is also a member of the management team of K-Tron (Switzerland) Ltd and is also MD of the subsidiary K-Tron Deutschland GmbH in Gelnhausen, Germany.
   The development means that sales managers in K-Tron offices in Shanghai, China, and Singapore will report directly to Mr Poole, a reflection of the increasing importance and potential growth K-Tron believes exists in the Chinese market.
   |   16:22 23/06/2009

Event for India
India. The first BulkSolids India event takes place in Mumbai on 2 - 3 March 2010.
  The international conference and accompanying exhibition is organised by Vogel Business Media and NürnbergMesse, whose international subsidiary Nürnberg Global Fairs will actually organise the event. Vogel Business Media is responsible for the content and organisation of the conference.
   Both the conference and exhibition will focus on transport, storage and handling of bulk solids, granules and powders. Topics for the conference are in English and include: bulk ports; belt conveying; storage; dust emission control; pneumatic conveying; slurry transportation; train loading and unloading; maintenance; and bulk material properties.
   Described as a compact event, there will be around 40 exhibitors, with the conference programme chaired by Dr V K Agarwal, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. Those interested in presenting a paper can submit proposals in the form of a single page abstract by 15 September 2009.
   "With BulkSolids India we are developing another key world market with one of the core themes of NürnbergMesse," says Claus Rättich, member of the management board, NürnbergMesse. "We are particularly pleased about entering this market together with Vogel Business Media, a highly competent partner in this field. We have cultivated good relations with Vogel for many years and BulkSolids India is a logical continuation of our very close cooperation in the course of IPB China."
  Reiner Grochowski, Vogel Business Media said that after organising two successful BulkEurope events of this format in Europe, the venture into the Indian market was important because of the demand for raw materials there.
   NürnbergMesse has a particular expertise with established events like POWTECH in German, IPB in China, and the recently acquired ANALÍTICA in Brazil.
• Conference enquiries email: imke.ostermeier@vogel.de
• Exhibition enquiries email: meike.krueger@ngfmail.com
   |   10:12 01/06/2009

Powder characterisation online
UK. Powder characterisation company Freeman Technology has launched a new website designed to give visitors rapid access to information relating directly to their own specific powder challenges.
   A new home page, improved navigation, extended technical and applications information, and an extensive download area are just some of the site’s new features. Various European language versions are planned later this year.
   MD Reg Freeman said the launch of the website is an important development in making increased use of web-based communications, and also coincides with the company’s first public web seminar. He added that as the business grows, with customers spread throughout the world, it is essential that as much information as possible is made available in an easily accessible way.
   The company specialises in powder characterisation using its FT4 powder tester to perform a range of methodologies, measuring shear, bulk and dynamic properties in a short time frame and using relatively small amounts of material. Data interpretation makes extensive use of Freeman know-how as well as the client’s own experience.
   Results often indicate why on a particular production line some powders are ‘easy’ to process and others are not. This knowledge, says Freeman, is the bedrock of efficient processing and allows materials to be developed that are efficiently processed and possess the required performance characteristics.
www.freemantech.co.uk
   |   11:36 18/05/2009

Call for papers
UK. A call for papers has been announced for the BulkEurope 2010 international conference and exhibition on bulk materials handling, storage and transportation to be held in Glasgow, Scotland on 9 - 10 September 2010.
   The event, previously hosted in Prague in September 2008, comes at a critical time, making it even more necessary to keep up to date with current and future developments in bulk materials handling and acquire the knowledge for streamlining operations and making them fit for coming demand.
• Authors interested in presenting a paper should send email abstracts to marcel.droettboom@vogel.de
   |   11:43 06/05/2009

Need to reduce energy costs?
UK. Reducing energy consumption has become even more vital in today’s economic climate. While energy expenditure alone is not the biggest single cost for companies, savings made in this area can provide a welcome financial cushion for the business as a whole.
   The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has therefore organised a one-day seminar on 24 June 2009 at their London headquarters to examine various ways of saving energy. Primarily aimed at the food processing industry, it will also be relevant to many other process industries currently facing the same challenges.
   The event will provide a holistic view of energy saving in the food processing industry. It will include a major consultancy’s overview of the savings to be made by reducing energy costs in food processing, how back-to-basics measures can be immediately implemented to save energy, and discuss the range of affordable appliances and technologies available for businesses seeking to cut energy costs.
  Also featured is an interactive roundtable discussion forum allowing speakers and delegates to share their knowledge. Overall, the aim of the event is to provide a comprehensive guide to energy expenditure reduction. There are also sponsorship and exhibition opportunities for companies wishing to promote their products or services.
Book online at www.imeche.org/
For sponsorship opportunities Tel: +44 (0)20 7973 1273
   |   07:50 30/04/2009

Solutions brochure for cement
UK. Just launched is a new Cement Plant Solutions brochure from Malvern Instruments, giving a complete overview of the company's comprehensive range of particle size analyzers for the cement industry.
   Using laser diffraction technology, the company’s solution packages are widely installed in particulate processing industries, including over 400 cement plants worldwide. The range of analyzers includes options for off-, at- and on-line cement measurement, providing solutions for both conventional and fully automated laboratories, and the process environment.
   Malvern says that increasingly, the industry is replacing Blaine analysis with particle size measurement to gain better control of cement performance. They say that laser diffraction provides a robust, consistent method of characterising cement size distribution, enabling accurate measurement and control of cement fineness.
  The company says that this can significantly reduce product inconsistencies observed when using Blaine analysis, from 6 - 7 per cent to less than 1 per cent RSD (Relative Standard Deviation).
Tel: +44 (0) 1684 892456
   |   11:44 23/04/2009

Upcoming courses
USA. Jenike & Johanson has announced upcoming events to be held in San Diego. The ASME/AIChE sponsored courses on the theory and practice of effective bulk solids handling have been reviewed and approved by the AIChE Education Committee.
   Flow of solids in bins, hoppers, chutes and feeders takes place on 20 - 21 May 2009, allowing delegates to learn about a wide range of equipment and the solutions to flow problems commonly associated with each of them. The course will help in understanding how friction, cohesion, compressibility and other properties affect solids flow through feeders, chutes, reactors, bins and hoppers.
   It will help in specifying and selecting the most suitable hardware for various bulk solid flow problems and plant objectives, including how to retrofit existing equipment to correct flow problems, as well as solving problems associated with solids handling, such as lost production, downtime, extra labour, poor quality control, spoiled material, and unreliable equipment.
   A course on Pneumatic conveying of bulk solids will be held on 22 May 2009 covering equipment and the solutions to problems commonly associated with each of them. Delegates will gain a better understanding of problems which occur, pneumatic conveying principles of operation, and how to evaluate in-plant systems and determine effectiveness.
  It will provide the ability to troubleshoot the source of conveying problems and apply various methods to improve efficiency. In addition, it will give delegates the necessary knowhow to choose a conveying system layout based upon proper principles of operation and, importantly, select the right system components.
Tel: +1-800-843-2763
   |   11:39 23/04/2009

Companies scoop awards
UK. A number of UK companies in the powder and bulk handling sector have been awarded the Queen's Awards for Enterprise for 2009.
   The Queen's Awards for Enterprise: International Trade 2009, recognising outstanding achievements in international trade, has been won by Cleveland Cascades Ltd, Powerscreen International Ltd and Pulsar Process Measurement Ltd.
   The Queen's Awards for Enterprise: Innovation 2009 which recognises outstanding achievements in innovation was awarded to EnviroVent Ltd.
   Cleveland Cascades Ltd is regarded as a global leader in the design and manufacture of bespoke retractable loading chutes for handling dry bulk materials. They have over 400 systems operating worldwide with applications in ship, silo, road, rail and tanker loading applications. MD Ian Barnard, one of the original inventors of the Cascade Chute, purchased the business from Cleveland Potash Ltd in 2004, taking the company from strength to strength by expanding its product range and market position.
   Powerscreen specialise in design and manufacture of mobile screening, washing and recycling equipment for quarry, mining, recycling industries processing aggregates, coal, construction and demolition waste. Since 1999, the company has been part of Terex, third largest construction manufacturer in the world.
   Pulsar Process Measurement has been in existence since 1997, rising to become one of the foremost non-contact level measurement instrument manufacturers worldwide. By developing its echo processing technology, the company has been able to address applications previously considered outside the scope of ultrasonic level measurement.
   One of a handful of companies in the UK to be awarded the Queen’s Award for Innovation, Harrogate-based EnviroVent was praised for its work developing and manufacturing the EnviroVent filterless extract fan which is said to have revolutionised the extractor fan market. One hundred per cent recyclable, the fan is designed to use a fraction of the energy expended by a traditional fan. Over 200,000 units have been sold since 2004.
   |   10:17 21/04/2009

Shedding light on explosions
Australia. A two-day conference covering the important area of dust explosions takes place in Penrith, NSW, Australia on 10 - 11 June 2009. Dust Explosions 2009, organised by Informa, has an optional extra day in the form of a pre-conference workshop with the aim of helping delegates to select the right protection measures and reduce hazards.
   The opening address will be made by Prof Peter Wypych, Centre for Bulks Solids and Particulate Technologies, University of Wollongong, followed by Gerry van Laar, Senior Scientist, Inburex Consulting Germany who will present a European perspective of the subject.
   Topics to be covered during the two days are many and varied and include: identifying hazards and preventing dust explosions; engineering due diligence; fire protection, risk engineering and insurable risk; explosion detection and protection; identifying and minimising risk of dust explosions in the grain industry; sugar industry perspective on dust explosion prevention; coal industry perspective on dust explosion prevention; effectiveness of dust control measures in coal mines; guidance for handling plant design and operation; explosion protection applications/solutions; handling technology developments to increase plant safety; and reducing dust explosion risk within the plant. The event culminates in a site tour and demonstration at TestSafe Australia’s facility.
Tel: + 61 2 9080 4307 Fax: + 61 2 9290 3844
email: registration@informa.com.au
www.informa.com.au/dustexplosions
   |   20:30 31/03/2009

Smaller footprint moving forward
France. Lafarge has taken a major step forward in reducing its ecological footprint, achieving its CO2 emissions reduction objective two years ahead of target. Absolute emissions in industrialised countries actually went down 12.5 per cent over the 1990 - 2008 period as compared with the 10 per cent reduction figure expected between 1990 and 2010.
   The other objective, a 20 per cent reduction in net CO2 emissions per metric ton of cement throughout the world, reached 18.4 per cent at the end of 2008 (compared with 16 percent in 2007).
   Bruno Lafont, Chairman and CEO, said that the results reflected the exemplary conduct of its operations and the active engagement taken since 2001 with WWF - World Wide Fund For Nature. The results also tie in with Lafarge's 2012 Sustainable Ambitions, a roadmap with 16 sustainable development operational objectives, which range from security to industrial health, and from persistent pollutants to biodiversity.
   Lafarge has been one of WWF's Conservation Partners since 2000 and is currently finalising discussions to renew the partnership for the next four years. Jim Leape, Director General of WWF International, encouraged Lafarge to keep on driving the changes which would help to set an example to other business communities.
   Around 98 per cent of Lafarge's CO2 emissions come from its cement business, in part from the chemical reaction of lime to heat, with the other constituent coming from fossil fuels used to fire kilns. Reducing its environmental footprint has involved continuous improvements to the energy performance of its factories, use of alternative fuels such as industrial residues or biomass - partly replacing the fossil fuels used to fire its cement kilns, use of cement additives to replace some of the clinker in cement production. Mostly, these are slag and fly ash, by-products of the steel industry and coal-fired power stations.
   Some initiatives have been registered ‘Clean Development Mechanisms’ by the UN, including a wind farm supplying the Tetouan cement plant in Morocco, use of palm oil nut shells as fuel in a Malaysian cement plant and replacement of some clinker by fly ash in India.
   |   20:22 31/03/2009

New test lab for Europe
Belgium. Rotex, the screening specialists, has announced the opening of a new test laboratory, near Brussels in Belgium conveniently located for European customers.
   Two screening experts, Karim Benioucef and Laurent De Wit, are on hand to test all materials in matching the most appropriate machine to the application. The lab is also equipped with the latest Apex screener which combines the performance of the Rotex screener’s gyratory action with quick and easy maintenance.
  Customers in the UK can take advantage of a lab facility in Runcorn, Cheshire.
   Rotex offers separation equipment including: gyratory and vibratory screeners and sifters for dry applications; liquid-solid separators for wet applications; automated particle size analyzers; and vibratory feeders and conveyors.
Tel: +32 (0) 10435044
   |   16:23 24/03/2009

How deep, how fast, recovery?
Malaysia. Will Asia's successful cement sector bounce back faster than expected? Despite slower growth in the private sector, the cement industry is being stimulated by regional government initiatives and investments in infrastructure construction and public works.
   China is believed to have allocated 4 trn Yuan of investment, a considerable portion of which will go into railway construction and welfare housing. Vietnam plans to develop its building industry with targets to satisfy the needs of both domestic consumption and export markets in terms of quantity, quality and selection of basic construction materials.
   If you are pondering future strategies in this market, CMT's CemenTrade Asia 09 conference in Kuala Lumpur on 23 - 24 March 2009 is the place to be. The event, now in its eleventh year, brings together a top panel of experts, providing the opportunity to network with major cement and concrete producers, traders, construction companies and organisations involved in the supply chain, and also listen to expert analysis on how the industry will position itself to ride out the storm.
   It will provide a snapshot of ASEAN markets and will try to answer some of the burning questions surrounding the market in China and the effect of US government policies in relation to infrastructure development. Other areas to be examined include: export trade and logistics challenges amid lower freight rates; Indonesia's coal outlook and how the cement industry will drive regional coal markets; and the dynamics of trade between Pakistan and India as new capacity comes on stream.
• Register online at www.cmtevents.com or send an enquiry to emily@cmtsp.com.sg
   |   11:06 18/03/2009

Global forum for process Industries
Germany. Despite the current global economic downturn, interest in Achema remains as strong as ever, says organiser Dechema.
   Every three years the city of Frankfurt hosts the event, regarded as one of the largest international meeting places for the process industries. This year the exhibition takes place from 11 to 15 May accompanied by a congress programme of 925 lectures that focuses on state-of-the-art developments and panel discussions led by distinguished speakers that addresses hot topics.
   According to Dr Thomas Scheuring, head of exhibition congresses at Dechema, the secret of the event’s success is that it is not just a trade fair but a unique opportunity for exhibitors to gain worldwide visibility and exposure in the chemical engineering and process industry market. Added to this is the fact that it is the number one showcase for new technologies and products, a communication hub and importantly the starting point for generating new business contacts.
   Paul Carter, Dechema’s UK and Ireland delegate, underlines the vast scale of Achema: 'There are twenty different exhibition groups, each bigger than any competing event in their field. A total of 4,000 exhibitors have booked space to show their products, in halls spanning 140,000 sq m, to an estimated 180,000 visitors from 100 countries.'
www.achema.de
   |   09:46 16/03/2009

Online service portal
UK. Avery Weigh-Tronix say that managing maintenance and servicing of weighing equipment is now even simpler with its new UK nationwide service web portal.
   Many organisations have thousands of different weighing systems, from laboratory scales right up to weighbridges, and it is often necessary to have current calibration certificates available to demonstrate accuracy. Dave Webb, service director for the company says: "Keeping track of calibration certificates using a paper-based system is a complex task in its own right. Using our new online system, the problem of lost calibration certificates will become a thing of the past."
   Each customer portal is a secure password protected site, enabling only authorised personnel to access information about weighing equipment in a way that suits their needs. This even applies even if, for example, calibration certificates for equipment are held across multiple sites and contracts. A convenient single point of contact is therefore provided for servicing both Avery's and other manufacturer's weighing equipment.
   Servicing and calibrating weighing equipment is a vital activity and often a legal requirement. If a scale needs major maintenance, involving replacing parts, then it will need to be re-verified and a calibration certificate obtained. The new service means that these certificates can be accessed 24/7.
   Over time the resource will ensure that an online electronic library is built up, indicating servicing and calibration frequency and monitoring the affects of day-to-day use on accuracy between service visits.
   Taking the technology a stage further, the company has issued all service technicians with palmtop computers for collecting information and uploading it to the portal.
Tel: 0870 9050060
   |   14:41 11/03/2009

Hillhead rescheduled
UK. The Hillhead 2009 show, the outdoor event held every other year at Hillhead Quarry in Buxton, UK and scheduled for June 2009, has been postponed until 2010 in view of the adverse economic climate that has developed.
   Despite the fact that the event had been heavily booked, discussions between the organisers and leading exhibitors led to the conclusion that it would be in the best interests of the event if it were put back a full year to allow UK market conditions time to stabilise. The organisers have apologised for any inconvenience caused and the new dates are 22 - 24 June 2010.
   This has thrust the SED 2009 show unexpectedly into the limelight as the only significant UK outdoor plant demo show this year taking place on 12 - 14 May 2009.
www.hillhead.com
www.sed.co.uk
   |   21:31 05/03/2009

Obituary: Dr Harold Wright
UK. It is with regret that we announce the death of Dr Harold Wright, a director of Dr H Wright & Associates, a consulting engineering company involved with the storage, handling, transport and processing of bulk solids.
   Latterly, Harold has been the secretary of the MHEA (Materials Handling Engineers Association) and was one of the main driving forces behind the successful series of MHEA Bulk Technical Awareness Seminars held each year in the UK and was involved up until his illness with this year’s event to be held at the Hilton Blackpool Hotel on the 23 - 24 April 2009.
   He is also vice chairman of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Process Industries Board and over the last 25 years has chaired the IMechE's Bulk Materials Handling Committee several times.
   It can be safely said that Harold was one of the more memorable characters of the industry, rumbustious and challenging if you ever had dealings with him, but always enthusiastic and supportive if a particular development had to be taken forward.
   His career began in the heyday of the UK’s steel industry with Ashmore Benson Pease/Davy Ashmore, at the time one of the UK's largest plant design contractors. In 1966 he joined BISRA (British Iron & Steel Research Association) as a Senior Scientific Officer in the Raw Materials Handling Section of the newly formed Teesside Research Laboratories and was mentored by such industry luminaries as Sir Charles Goodeve FRS, Dr George Wistreich DSc and Herbert Wilkinson BSc.
   In 1970, under the tutorship of Dr JC Williams, he obtained his PhD in Chemical Engineering at the University of Bradford for work relating to the silo design theories of Dr Andrew Jenike. He spent seventeen years with BISRA/BSC as a specialist plant engineer solving problems in belt conveying, crushing, screening and test sieving, segregation, degradation and silo design and latterly became Head of Materials Handling at the Teesside Laboratories.
   Taking the expertise he had built up there, he set up his own consulting engineering company in 1983, providing clients with practical, operations orientated, experience from conceptual design through to commissioning on projects associated with storage, handling, transport and processing of bulk materials. He is the author of over 50 technical papers in the field of bulk materials handling and has given presentations in the UK, Belgium, China, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden and USA.
   He has authored eight ISBN publications covering topics such as bunker design, flow aids, degradation and segregation, screening and test sieving theory and practice, coal handling and rules of thumb in bulk handling.
   His specialisation in storage systems has made him responsible for over 170 projects for clients in the UK and overseas and he was Leader of the BSI's UK Delegation in the period 1990 - 2000 on the European Union (EU) CEN - TC 148 - WG4 (prEN 617) Standards Committee involved with BS EN 617:2001 - Continuous handling equipment and systems - Safety and EMC requirements for the equipment for the storage of bulk materials in silos, bunkers, bins and hoppers. In June 2003, Harold produced the first Draft of BS 8439 Continuous handling equipment and systems - Guide to properties of powders and bulk materials.
   One of his career highlights was to be awarded the IMech's prestigious Solids Handling Award for lifetime service in the field of handling, transport, physical processing and storage of bulk and powdered materials. His demonstrative personality will be sadly missed by family, friends and colleagues alike.
   |   21:31 05/03/2009

Action plan
France. Lafarge has announced a dynamic €4.5 bn action plan to strengthen its financial structure including a €1.5 bn rights issue. This is despite record operating results for 2008 (sales up 8 per cent to €19,033 m and operating income up 9 per cent to €3,542 m).
   At a recent board meeting to approve accounts for the financial year, Bruno Lafont, Chairman and CEO, said: "Despite the deterioration of our markets in the fourth quarter, Lafarge achieved a strong operational performance in 2008 and continued to outperform the sector ... In the context of an unprecedented financial and economic environment, our objective is to rapidly reduce our debt in 2009.” The action plan is aimed at reducing debt, strengthening the financial structure, bolstering sector leadership and positioning the Group to benefit from the recovery.
   Mr Lafont went on to say that the global economic crisis and high level of uncertainty made forecasting difficult for 2009, but it is expected that cement volumes in its markets will be down 0 to 3 per cent overall, with significant declines for developed economies and with slower growth in emerging economies.
   Lafarge will increase its cost cutting initiative in 2009 from €120m to €200m, part of a €400m three-year programme from 2009 to 2011. Around €420m of annual recurring savings were achieved in 2008 compared to 2005.
   |   10:19 24/02/2009

John Denham with young apprentices at the North East regional launch of the Skills Academy

Bring back the apprentice - quick
UK. A call has gone out for future investment during Apprenticeship Week which starts on 23 February 2009.
   The head of the National Skills Academy - Process Industries, Phil Jones, is calling for more employers to invest in students, supporting the week-long event backed by Sir Alan Sugar and celebrating the role apprenticeships play in the business world.
   It is estimated that 24,000 apprentices will be required over the next decade and the government has recently asked for one in five young people to get on an apprenticeship within the next 10 years and 90,000 more within the next five. The hope is that the Skills Academy can help highlight the importance of apprentices during the economic downturn.
   Phil Jones said: “In the current economic circumstances, it is more important than ever to ensure that employees have the skills they need to help deliver success which is why businesses should continue to train.”
  Apprenticeship Week, includes events and awareness-raising activities across the country. Sir Alan Sugar will join Secretaries of State, John Denham and Ed Balls in an effort to motivate and galvanise business in a series of appearances.
  The intention is to encourage young people that there are good careers available in chemicals, plastics and pharmaceutical industries whilst helping employers to realise the benefits of sponsoring an apprentice.
   Extra government support and funding is available and employers are encouraged to contact the academy. The initiative is also trying to change the perceived view that, historically you complete your apprenticeship and that’s it. “We want people to see long-term learning potential in this industry”, says Mr Jones.
www.process.nsacademy.co.uk
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
   |   16:02 19/02/2009

Need to know now?
UK. SHAPA , the Solids Handling and Processing Association, has announced a new search facility on its website at www.shapa.co.uk. The portal provides an easily accessible central resource for specialist equipment, systems and services in the solids and bulk handling industry.
   Simply by clicking on the product selector button it is possible to gain access to a wide selection of experienced and quality driven suppliers. Depending on which aspect of the industry you wish to enquire about, it’s just a matter of navigating to the appropriate sector and then the most applicable heading, which then provides a list of recommended SHAPA members and suppliers. In addition, a 'Useful links' section provides further information to help any enquiry.
   Commenting on the new search facility, John Whitehead, SHAPA’s general secretary, said: “It's easy to find, more easily accessible and all with just a minimal amount of clicks but that's not all, if you have a specific technical problem we'll sort that out for you too.”
www.shapa.co.uk
• SHAPA has been the UK's leading specialist association for the solids handling and processing industry since 1981, its member companies providing a range of equipment, systems and and services covering all aspects of the industry
   |   11:07 11/02/2009

ISO report for nanomaterials
Switzerland. Nanotechnology is advancing rapidly and the expectations are that it will have an impact on virtually every facet of global industry and society.
  International standardisation plays a key role in realising the potential of this technology for the betterment and sustainability of the world through economic development, and for improving and protecting public health and the environment.
   To this end, ISO has just published ISO/TR 12885:2008 - Health and safety practices in occupational settings relevant to nanotechnologies, focusing on manufacture and use of engineered nanomaterials. The technical report is based on current information about nanotechnologies, including characterisation, health effects, exposure assessments, and control practices.
www.iso.org
   |   21:23 09/02/2009

Top safety accreditation
UK. Chronos Richardson is the latest company to gain accreditation under the SAFEcontractor scheme, a programme that recognises high standards of health and safety amongst UK-based contractors.
   General manager Peter Orme expected the accreditation to enhance the company’s ability to attract new projects whilst reassuring existing customers about its safety commitment. The scheme is operated by international safety, health and environmental risk management specialists The National Britannia Group.
   Darran Hughes, its operations director for SAFEcontractor, said that organisations can no longer run the risk of employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety policies. He concluded, “More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Chronos Richardson has done. The company’s high standard has set an example, which hopefully will be followed by other companies from within their sector”.
   Chronos Richardson, who provide weighers for packing powdery and granular materials, as well as bagging placing, filling and palletising systems, applied for accreditation to further enhance its established network of installation, commissioning and service engineers.
   |   13:38 08/02/2009

Investigation into nanotechnologies and food
UK. The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee has launched an inquiry into the use of nanotechnologies in the food sector, appointing a sub-committee, chaired by Lord Krebs to undertake the investigation.
   This comes at a time when their use in the production and manufacture of food and food packaging is in its infancy, with only a small number of products on the market globally. Many possible food applications are still at the research stage and millions of dollars are being spent by both governments and industry to apply nanotechnologies in areas such as food processing, food safety and packaging.
   In this particular instance, the inquiry will focus on the use of nanotechnologies in food products, additives and supplements, as well as food contact packaging, food manufacturing processes, animal feed, pesticides and fertilisers and products that may come into contact with food, such as food containers and cooking utensils.
   Lord Krebs, Chairman of the Science and Technology Sub-Committee on Nanotechnologies and Food, said that there is a need for awareness of all the issues that surround their use so that informed decisions can be made about the impacts and changes that an increased use of nanotechnologies might cause.
  Four key aspects will be explored: state of the science and its current use in the food sector; health and safety implications; regulatory framework; and public engagement and consumer information.
• Written submissions are invited from interested parties with a deadline of 13 March 2009
www.parliament.uk/hlscience
   |   15:12 03/02/2009

Silo service rolled out
UK. Braby say that the launch of their silo cleaning, maintenance and inspection service is aimed at prolonging the life of any silo, helping to avoid the expense so often associated with replacing damaged or badly maintained equipment.
   The service, offered by one of the UK's leading manufacturers of stainless steel and aluminium silos, will also ensure that clients stay ATEX compliant, with scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance packages available.
   Paul Mayer, sales and marketing director, reiterated the point that regular silo maintenance is important in maintaining both a safe working environment and productive processes. “Health and safety issues and costly fines can be avoided with regular inspection and servicing, ensuring the protection of both your workforce and the business”, he added.
   Braby engineers will undertake a full internal and external silo inspection, surveys, service and maintenance duties, generating detailed reports on the silo’s current condition and indicating appropriate maintenance schedules, with levels of detail dependent upon the package selected. An out of office 24-hour emergency service is also provided for infestation or incorrect silo usage.
Tel: +22 (0) 117 9341300 email: sales@braby.co.uk
   |   10:13 30/01/2009

K-Tron Actiflow

New solution to bridging
Switzerland. K-Tron Process Group will show K-Tron’s latest invention, the ActiFlow, at the forthcoming Anuga FoodTec exhibition, the international trade fair for food and drink technology, which takes place in Cologne, Germany on 10 - 13 March 2009.
   ActiFlow is designed to reliably prevent bridging of cohesive bulk materials in stainless steel hoppers. The claim is that, for the majority of difficult flowing materials, the device will make common arch breakers obsolete when used in loss in weight (gravimetric) feeding applications. Another advantage is that it is maintenance free and there is no contact with the product.
   At the event, the new K-Tron Premier brand will be represented by the 2415 powder and pellet receiver with a new Series 4 controller and pharma version of the P30 vacuum receiver.
   The receiver range is comprehensive, the model 2410 vacuum sequencing central receiver is intended to handle powder, pellet, regrind or granular materials in chemical, food and plastics applications and available in aluminum or stainless steel construction.
   P-Series vacuum sequencing receivers have been redesigned to the same finish standards as K-Tron's line of weigh feeders, with improvements in the form of extension modules to increase receiving volume.
   K-Tron’s booth will also feature the new multiple feeder/single line operator interface for the KCM. Called K-Vision, it features multi-language support, including Chinese, and a selectable quad screen feature. Other equipment models on display include a KT20 pharma feeder combined with a Dinnissen sieve and Smart Weigh Belt feeder.
www.ktron.com
   |   11:08 29/01/2009

Success for new organiser
China. IPB (The 6th International Powder/Bulk Conference & Exhibition), held on 9 - 11 December 2008 in the Everbright Convention & Exhibition Center in Shanghai, was regarded as a success for the new organiser, with 155 exhibitors participating.
   The organising team, consisting of Chinese Society of Particuology (CSP), NürnbergMesse China Co Ltd and Worldwide Exhibitions Service Co Ltd, was backed up by overseas partners The Association of Powder Process Industry and Engineering, Japan, and media partner Vogel Industrie Medien, Germany. More than 5000 trade visitors attended, 12 per cent up on last time, with the parallel conference, organised by the CSP attracting more than 400 participants.
   Axel Bartkus, MD of NürnbergMesse China, said that combining the CSP conference - which takes place every other year - helped to attract more high calibre visitors from industry and research.
   Claus Rättich, Member of the Management Board of NürnbergMesse GmbH, said that he continued to see good development prospects for IPB in close cooperation with Powtech in Nürnberg. The exhibition with its accompanying conference is regarded as critical for the Asian region, comparable with the European orientated Powtech in Nürnberg in terms of both exhibition theme and exhibitor and visitor target groups. The organisers say that experience and industry knowhow gained from Powtech have been incorporated into the preparation of IPB 2008, involving close cooperation between NürnbergMesse GmbH and its Chinese subsidiary NürnbergMesse China Co Ltd.
   Although visitors came from 20 countries, the majority were local trade visitors. Around 82 per cent of visitors are said to have been involved in the purchasing decision making process, with 78 per cent of visitors considering the economic situation in the powder and bulk industry in China to be steady and showing an upward trend in the future. The presentation events in the supporting programme also attracted a lot of interest among visitors – and were often followed by extensive discussions.
   Importantly, the majority of exhibitors (80 per cent) planned to participate in IPB 2009 which takes place on 9 - 11 December 2009 at the Shanghai International Exhibition Centre.
www.ipbexpo.com
   |   21:14 28/01/2009

Nominations for innovation award
UK. The Bulk Materials Handling Committee of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) is seeking applications for its Bulk Materials Handling Award for Innovation , created to raise the profile of the technology and reward instances of research, development or design which enhance it.
   There is an award of £250 for the author of the best paper presented in 2008. Engineers, scientists, students, researchers and academic staff, are all eligible, but the work must be linked to the UK. A recent recipient was Dr Eddie McGee, technical director, Ajax Equipment, for his work on predicting bulk solids flow in manufacturing processes.
   If you would like to apply or make a nomination, please submit your application with a letter of support from your manager/supervisor to the address below by 24 July 2009. Entries will be submitted to a panel of judges with the result announced by the end of October 2009.
• Contact: Taz Khatun, Engineering Programmes, IMechE, 1 Birdcage Walk, London, SW1H 9JJ Tel: 020 7973 1306 email: t_khatun@imeche.org
   |   10:45 24/01/2009

Dr Eddie McGee (left) and John Pethulis

IMechE award for innovation
UK. Dr Eddie McGee, technical director, Ajax Equipment, has received the Institution of Mechanical Engineers' prestigious 'Bulk Materials Award for Innovation' for his work on predicting the flow of bulk solids in manufacturing processes.
   As a result of his work, engineers are now provided with a predictive tool that helps avoid common problems such as blockages, sticking and erratic flow. The technique has been successfully applied to provide trouble-free storage hopper and feeder designs in pharmaceutical, food and chemical manufacture, helping to achieve reliable and consistent materials flow.
   The technique maximises the predictive value of standard bulk materials tests for bulk density, shear strength and wall friction. Using these properties, together with container wall angle, outlet size and ratio of loose to compacted bulk density, six parameters are plotted on a 'spider' diagram to produce a fuller picture of flow characteristics. Using this diagram, engineers are able to design hoppers and silos more sympathetic to particular flow properties.
   Presenting the 'Bulk Materials Award for Innovation' at the IMechE’s London headquarters, John Pethulis, chairman of the IMechE's Bulk Materials Handling Committee said, “Dr McGee's spider diagram is a useful approach which integrates the flow related characteristics of bulk solids and a significant contribution to tackling the problem of characterising the many materials handled in industry.”
   In response, Dr McGee expressed delight at receiving the award, saying that the Institution is renowned throughout the world for the highest quality and professional standards in engineering and that the Bulk Materials Handling Committee is particularly active in promoting the latest technical and engineering advancements.
• Contact: Ajax Equipment Tel: 01204 386723
   |   16:39 14/01/2009

Measures for weak demand
USA. Cabot Corp expects to report significant volume declines for the first fiscal quarter of 2009 and is taking a series of aggressive actions to address continuing market challenges.
   President and CEO Patrick Prevost cited global weakness in the tyre, automotive and construction industries, intensified by customer inventory reduction, causing volume declines in each of the company’s geographical areas. Volumes in rubber blacks, performance products and fumed metal oxides businesses are expected to be 20 - 30 per cent lower than in the same period last year.
   Prevost continued, "It is difficult to foresee how the remainder of the fiscal year will develop, but we expect that the lower first quarter volumes will have a considerable impact on the full year and we are preparing for an extended slowdown.” A detailed review of global operations will see a repositioning for these challenging market conditions.
   In addition to current curtailments of as much as 40 per cent of production, operational and structural adjustments will be implemented to yield in excess of $80 m of annualised cost savings for 2010. Capital spending will also be reduced by approximately $50 m compared to 2008.
   In spite of the sobering news, earnings and cash flows in the first half of fiscal 2009 are expected to be helped by lower carbon black raw material costs. Cabot's main products are carbon black, fumed silica, inkjet colorants, capacitor materials and cesium formate drilling fluids.
   |   17:03 17/12/2008

Industry get together
China. Suppliers and production specialists from all over the world are currently meeting to discuss the latest innovations in powder, granule and bulk solids technology at the 6th International Powder/Bulk Conference & Exhibition (IPB) from 9 - 11 December 2008.
  Taking place in the Everbright Convention & Exhibition Center in Shanghai, the exhibition is organised by NürnbergMesse China and has an extensive conference programme - the only trade fair in the Asian region supported by the Chinese Society of Particuology (CSP).
   There are 150+ exhibitors presenting products, including innovative solutions for processing technologies in the building material, coal and mining industries. Around 4,000 visitors are expected.
   The organiser has used its many years of experience and know-how gained from the POWTECH exhibition in Germany in the preparation of this event with close cooperation between NürnbergMesse GmbH and its Chinese subsidiary NürnbergMesse China Co and a range of associated events.
   The 6th Symposium held by the Chinese Society of Particuology concentrates on advances in particle science and technology and aims to promote exchange between all sectors that use particles. The conference consists of plenary presentations, keynote lectures, discussions with invited speakers, oral presentations and poster sessions.
   The 1st Chinese International Symposium on Particle Technology brings together experts from Japan, Korea, India, USA and China to reveal the latest advances in nanoparticle technology, particle preparation and application, particle catalysis, fluidization and aerosol technology.
   The 1st International Symposium on Gasification and its Applications is organised for the first time and offers seminars for experts on gasification technologies for coal, biomass, waste and their applications in various industrial fields. An additional feature is the first Japanese Day, at which experts from the Association of Powder Process Industry and Engineering, JAPAN (APPIE) present various topics.
   IPB 2008 also deals with explosive issues through a series of daily dust explosions in front of the exhibition centre to demonstrate the potential hazards associated with handling and processing powders and bulk solids.
   The event is a precursor to the World Congress on Particle Technology (WCPT) and PARTEC Congress (26 - 29 April 2010) which take place in conjunction with POWTECH 2010 (27 - 29 April 2010) in Nuremberg, Germany. It has already been confirmed that WCPT 2014 will take place in China. More information at www.wcpt6.org
www.ipbexpo.com
   |   22:14 09/12/2008

Bulk conference for Asia
Singapore. Bulk Materials Handling 2009 Asia will be held in Singapore on 16 - 19 February 2009 providing delegates with the means to improve their current bulk handling facilities and tackle bulk material handling transportation and logistical challenges. It will also show how cutting edge engineering concepts and technological solutions can be integrated to provide greater efficiency. Added to this is the opportunity to hear about key infrastructure developments in the region and participate in networking and business development opportunities.
   There will be key speakers from: Committee on Infrastructure, Government of India; Dampier Port Authority; Queensland Rail Network; Rail Vikam Nagas; Rio Tinto Iron Ore; Ssang Yong Cement; Hancock Prospecting; PT Multi Terminal Indonesia; Connell Wagner; TUNRA - Centre for Bulk Solids & Particulate Technologies; Essar; BMT Group; Ispat Industries; and China Powder Technology Association.
   Two dedicated streams cover bulk solids and powder bulk with case studies and presentations on a vast range of issues including: ports & transportation infrastructure developments in Asia: a close look at Indonesia & India; improving rail, road and port connectivity in Asia; leveraging on port expansion and floating terminals to reduce bottlenecks; understanding conveyor systems & design for improved bulk material handling; designing and maintaining an efficient bulk material handling facility; tackling bulk material transportation and logistical challenges; dust & noise mitigation strategies; and best practice in reducing hazards and environmental issues associated with bulk material handling.
• The conference is organised by IBC Asia (S) Pte Ltd Tel: +65 6514 3180 email: register@ibcasia.com.sg
www.bulkmaterialasia.com
   |   20:48 23/11/2008

Malvern joins analyzer integration group
UK. Malvern Instruments is to participate in the newly-formed OPC Analyzer Device Integration Working Group, constituted to develop a common method for data exchange and an analyzer data model for process and laboratory analyzers. It comprises interested members of the OPC Foundation, dedicated to ensuring interoperability in automation via open standards.
   Both instrument manufacturers and industrial users of analytical instrumentation are represented on the Working Group which currently comprises: ABB; Abbott; Arla Foods Global IT; BRL Consulting; CAS; GlaxoSmithKline; Malvern Process Systems; Mettler-Toledo Autochem Inc; OPC Foundation; Pfizer Inc; Siemens nv; Software Toolbox Inc; and Umetrics.
   Oliver Schmitt, Business Line Manager for Malvern Process Systems feels that close co-operation with all parties is extremely important. "With the current focus on process optimisation, and with initiatives such as PAT (Process Analytical Technology) pushing forward analyzer integration, it is vital that we develop the standard interfaces needed to achieve co-ordination and control of systems from different companies," he said. Right now there are no standard solutions.
   The Working Group is adopting OPC-UA (Unified Architecture) as the basis for the Analyzer Device Integration (ADI) standard and aims to define a compatible data model. OPC-UA is a ‘platform neutral’ standard designed to support complex data types and object models; it can achieve high speed data transfers and has broad industry support beyond simply process automation.
www.opcfoundation.org
   |   15:17 03-11-2008

A tip for engineering
UK. Current warnings by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) could just be the tip of the proverbial iceberg representing the high end skills shortages that many areas of engineering face, and are likely to face in future.
   According to the IChemE’s licensing body, plans to reduce UK carbon emissions could be jeopardised by a lack of investment in chemical engineering education.
  Dr David Brown, IChemE chief executive, says that calls for greater investment in chemical engineering at UK universities have not been acted upon and that current graduate intake levels will fail to meet industry demand.
   He warns that, “Chemical engineers will be at the forefront of the battle against climate change but there simply aren’t going to be enough of them graduating from our universities”.
   This year has seen a record intake of students opting to study the subject at universities, but the IChemE’s view is that more places must be made available to meet both student and employer demand. When last year’s intake figures were published, the IChemE warned that investment was needed by both Government and industry to expand existing departments and establish new ones in appropriate locations. Since then, intake has continued to grow but the IChemE has seen little evidence of investment.
   “We are close to reaching a point where further growth is impossible because we have neglected the capacity problems. Everyone will be affected – whether it’s the student who can’t study the subject they want to, the employer who can’t hire sufficient staff, or the public who pay the price for the skills shortage,” says Brown.
   Chemical engineering has also been included on a list of ‘shortage occupation’ professions by the UK Migration Advisory Committee last month, which recommended employers are implicitly free to hire chemical engineers from any country, ahead of the UK’s new points-based immigration system, which begins soon. The situation is set to become even more pressing with the Government’s stated intention to raise emission reduction targets from 60 per cent to 80 per cent by 2050.
• Recent UCAS figures reveal that 1645 students began studying chemical engineering in the UK this year, a 13 per cent rise on the 2007 intake and a 75 per cent rise since 2001.
   |   15:22 22-10-2008

Events combine for Brisbane
Australia. Two major international conferences, CHoPS (6 th International Conference for Conveying and Handling of Particulate Solids) and ICBMH (10 th International Conference on Bulk Materials Storage, Handling & Transportation) are to be combined with BULKEX , the major Asia-Pacific Bulk Materials Handling Exhibition in Brisbane, Australia on 3 - 7 August 2009.
   The location and timing of the event is particularly advantageous considering the economic and resources boom in Australia, China and India. The hope is that the focus on Asia-Pacific will help to draw in interest from Europe and USA due to increasing market/business opportunities.
   The event will cover all nano, particle, powder and bulk material technologies and the scope of the combined conferences is extensive, dealing with: storage, flow, feeding, conveying, processing; technology and modelling developments; measurement, control and instrumentation; mining operations and port facilities; particle attrition and system wear; dust hazards and environmental aspects; fluidisation, drying and cooling; and educational issues. There is a call for papers with an abstract deadline of 28 November 2008.
   The organisers say that the aim is to unite the scientific and industrial communities and provide stimulating networking/collaboration opportunities.
Expressions of interest and abstract submissions can be directed to: www.chops2009.org.au
   |   20:56 12-10-2008

Upbeat in spite of challenges
UK. Officially opened by Lord Digby Jones, the PPMA Show 2008 proved an extremely busy and successful event, say the organisers. Reed Exhibitions and the PPMA reported almost 4,000 sq m of space booked onsite during the event. As yet, no official visitor figures have been released as this awaits the ABC audit process.
   A large number of exhibitors launched or displayed new products in the UK for the first time and many reported high levels of interest, with others making sales during the exhibition.
   Farleygreene operations director Antony Hare reported a "fantastic amount of interest" in its new ECO 3 in 1 sacktip station, "leading to two sales from the stand", he said.
   Colin Barker of Aetna UK said the show had been "excellent and the PPMA Show Team did a first-class job. We had some good quality visitors and the size of the show enabled us to get to see and spend time with all of them."
   It was the first time that WAM Eng had taken part in an exhibition for some years said sales manager Mark Thomson, who was enthusiastic about the response. He said that there had been a lot of interest in the company’s ploughshare mixer, with over 15 leads on the mixer alone and another equal amount on dust collectors, screw conveyors, vibrators and waste water treatment equipment.
   Russell Finex displayed a range of machines, including a working totally enclosed Russell Self-Cleaning Eco Filter unit, Blow-Thru Sieve, Compact 3 in 1, Finex Separator with Vibrasonic deblinding system and an assortment of Russell Compact Sieves.
   Newly introduced by John R Boone is a horizontal helical blade mixer which features a novel combination of rapid, gentle mixing with a tipping action to provide complete discharge into mobile containers.
   The co-location of the exhibition with Interplas is also said to have proved popular with many visitors. "The reaction to this year's PPMA Show from both exhibitors and visitors has been fantastic, particularly given the challenging economic events this month," commented exhibition director Liz Finlay. "It is clear that there were a lot of new developments for visitors to see and that this has resulted in a good many sales and quality leads for our exhibitors."
   The next PPMA Show will take place from 29 Sept - 1 Oct 2009, again at the NEC in Birmingham.
• Contact Graham Earl on 020 8910 7890 or graham.earl@reedexpo.co.uk. www.ppmashow.co.uk
   |   21:03 12-10-2008

Distributor for protection technology
UK. Orthos has been appointed sole UK distributor for Rembe's range of explosion protection equipment which includes venting panels, bursting discs and patented Q-Rhor and Q-Box flame suppression systems which, in combination with a bursting disc, permit indoor venting. 
  The range also includes elevator and transport line protection and explosion suppression systems optimised for individual requirements. Venting panels include two types of single layer units, designed to provide exceptional stability and mounted directly on to a flat or curved surface without the need for special torque adjustment of the mounting screws. 
  Special sanitary bursting discs are offered for food industry applications allowing processes to be completely sealed by a smooth stainless steel membrane.
• Tel: +44 (0)1858 464246
   |  10:53 07-10-2008

Powtech positive
Germany. The three-day POWTECH/TechnoPharm 2008 exhibition ended on 2 October with over 1,000 exhibitors presenting the latest developments and trends to some 15,000 trade visitors from around the globe - overseas visitors accounting for well over 25 per cent of the audience. 
  Despite shifting global economic patterns over the past few years, the show has managed to steadily grow in size, expanding its range by homing in on niche areas of interest like pharma. 
  “The two exhibitions have achieved a steady high level again in 2008,” said Walter Hufnagel, Member of the Management Board of NürnbergMesse, the exhibition organisers. “Despite the slight drop in the number of visitors due to the date, Nürnberg is more than ever one of the capital goods exhibitions that are fully accepted,” he said. 
  Significant trends at POWTECH and TechnoPharm 2008 can best be described by the keywords quality optimisation, efficient integration of process steps and traceability. This reflects the fact that all industries that use mechanical processes, like the pharma, cosmetic and health food industries, are having to meet the global challenge of improving efficiency. 
  The next POWTECH/TechnoPharm event takes place in Nuremberg on 27 - 29 April 2010 and promises to be a unique barometer of global industrial activity in the wake of the current financial turmoil. The event will be bolstered by the accompanying World Congress on Particle Technology (WCPT) which runs from 26-29 April 2010.
www.powtech.de
   |   15:29 06-10-2008

SHAPA - European dimension
UK. John Whitehead, general secretary of SHAPA (Solids Handling and Processing Association), said his impression of POWTECH was that it was a well attended event, particularly in the light of recent UK shows.
   It is the first mainland European show that SHAPA has had a presence, with nine member companies directly exhibiting, together with 17 other companies who were either parent or daughter representatives of SHAPA members.
   Mr Whitehead said that the event was a great opportunity to make contacts with other trade associations, media and potential members and that the association is now giving serious consideration to attending the next event, either on its own or with some members on a larger SHAPA stand or pavilion. So watch this space.
www.shapa.co.uk
   |   15:31 06-10-2008

Another sphere of influence
UK. Dr Graham Rideal, MD of Whitehouse Scientific, fittingly celebrated the 25th anniversary of the business he founded by providing the live entertainment for colleagues from both industry and academia at the recent Particulate Systems Analysis 2008 event at Stratford-upon-Avon.
   A regular attendee and exhibitor at the conference, Whitehouse Scientific this year marked its silver anniversary by sponsoring drinks at a reception.
   "As always the conference proved to be highly thought provoking with many stimulating presentations," said Dr Rideal. "This is a significant time for Whitehouse Scientific and it has been our pleasure to help sponsor an event with which we have been associated for many years."
   Whitehouse Scientific has been producing precision glass microspheres for calibration for 25 years and is now regarded as the highest ranking European certification laboratory for primary methods of particle size analysis, and the world's leading manufacturer of single-shot glass microsphere standards.
   The references, nearly all NIST traceable, range in size from 0.1µm - 5.0mm and are available as single sizes or broad distribution standards. Filter apertures between 3 and 1000 microns can be traceably measured through NIST references using a novel calibration procedure.
www.whitehousescientific.com
   |   15:52 30-09-2008

ITW purchases Avery Weigh-Tronix
UK. Avery Weigh-Tronix has been purchased by Illinois Tool Works (ITW) from its current owners, European Capital.
   Avery Weigh-Tronix, regarded as one of the largest industrial weighing companies in the world, is based in the West Midlands of the UK, with manufacturing facilities in Minnesota and California, Montreal, Delhi and Suzhuo, China and representation in over 70 countries worldwide.
   Andy Caffyn, CEO of Avery Weigh-Tronix expressed delight with the transaction saying that ITW would be an excellent long term owner for the business and a great fit to existing businesses within the ITW Test and Measurement group.
   ITW is a Fortune 500, publicly traded company based in Chicago, USA and a diversified manufacturer of engineered products and specialty systems with over 825 operations in 52 countries.
   Steve Martindale, Group President of ITW's Test and Measurement businesses said, "Avery Weigh-Tronix is a high performing business, with outstanding management and employees, as well as an excellent reputation in the marketplace. The company will be a strong addition to the ITW's Test and Measurement group and we are pleased to welcome them to the ITW family."
   Caffyn said that one of ITW’s guiding principles is to allow each business to operate independently as a standalone company. He added that there are no current plans for any corporate restructuring or facility moves. "We will continue to monitor closely our market and continue making decisions that are in the best long-term interest of the business", he added.
   |   10:41 27-09-2008

Innovation in bulk event
Australia. The Australian Society for Bulk Solids Handling and Australian Bulk Handling Review have announced the inaugural Innovation in Bulk Materials Handling & Processing conference which takes place in Sydney on 26 - 27 November 2008.
   The event comes at a buoyant time for Australia's bulk commodity exports with record coal and iron ore volumes, increased production of industrial powders and a rebounding grain market. A pressing need exists to ensure high performance levels and provide cost effective, efficient bulk handling and processing facilities to maximise competitive advantage in global markets.
   The two-day conference programme, developed in consultation with leading academics and industry representatives, will provide an overview of latest technical developments and industrial applications from a select panel of scientific experts.
   There will be the opportunity to get specific information on the engineering and operational aspects of some of the region's cutting edge projects from stockpile to ship and the chance to network with industry leaders. The programme will cover areas such as: environmental sustainability; conveying systems; feeders and transfer chutes; dust control; silos and storage; heavy haul rail; and port infrastructure. A site tour of the Cement Australia facility at Glebe Island is also planned.
Email: registration@informa.com.au
www.informa.com.au/bulkhandling/el
   |   18:50 23/09/2008

IMechE compliance seminar
UK. The Process Industries Division of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) is subject to an ever increasing collection of regulation, legislation and codes of practice, both statutory and industry-led.
  A forthcoming seminar organised by the Bulk Materials Handling Committee of the IMechE is therefore aimed at providing an overview, dealing with applicability and mapping out the best route to compliance. Whilst there is a strong focus on processing of bulk solids and powder materials, the seminar is potentially of interest to other sectors.
   The event, entitled Compliance in the materials handling sector , will be held at IMechE headquarters in London on 11 November 2008. It is intended that delegates will gain a greater awareness of regulations within the area they work in, the legal requirements and best working practice.
   Guidance will be provided on where to find the relevant information and there will be the opportunity to discuss delegates own process plant issues during workshop sessions. Added to this is the opportunity to network with other professionals facing the same challenge.
   The seminar is aimed at engineers, maintenance staff and managers involved in the design, manufacture and operation of process plant and equipment. There are also exhibition and sponsorship options.
• Contact: Aman Duggal on +44 (0)20 7973 1309 Email a_duggal@imeche.org
   |   21:26 11/09/2008

Benchmark in sustainability
Switzerland. For the fourth year in succession, Holcim has been named "Leader of the Industry" in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI), and once again acknowledged as the company with the best sustainability performance in the building materials industry.
   Holcim is a global leader in cement and aggregates with further activities in readymix concrete and asphalt.
   The award recognises continued and further strengthened commitment to sustainable development as an important part of the Group’s strategy. Its recycling strategy, dialogue with stakeholders as well as its efforts in human resources development also received top scores.
   Launched in 1999, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index was the first of its kind to assess the leading sustainability-driven companies worldwide.
   |   18:10 10/09/2008

New joint venture
India. A joint venture between materials characterisation company Malvern Instruments and Aimil, its long-term distribution partner in India, has resulted in the establishment of Malvern Aimil Instruments Pvt Ltd.
   The new joint venture. which became operational on 1 May 2008, will be headquartered in Mumbai, with staff operating from all eight offices across the country, including two particle size centres of excellence in Bangalore and Baroda.
   Paul Walker, MD of Malvern Instruments, said that the company had enjoyed a highly successful relationship with Aimil for more than 30 years and that the new venture would enable the company to extend its market-leading position in India and expand the applications support provided to customers.
   "India is now one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing markets in the world and Indian companies are significant global players in many industries. Together Malvern Instruments and Aimil have built a strong reputation for the supply and support of systems for particle characterisation, rheological measurement and chemical imaging to a wide range of sectors", said Mr Walker.
www.malvern.com
www.malvernaimil.com
   |   17:05 12/08/2008

Theory and practice courses
USA. Jenike & Johanson are running two ASME/AIChE sponsored courses on the theory and practice of bulk solids handling in Las Vegas on 17 - 19 September 2008.
   Flow of solids in bins, hoppers and feeders will help delegates learn about the wide range of equipment types and the solutions to flow problems commonly associated with them. The intention is to gain a better understanding of how friction, cohesion, compressibility and other properties affect the flow of solids through various types of feeders, chutes, reactors, bins and hoppers. Specifying and selecting hardware to suit particular flow problems and retrofitting existing equipment to correct flow problems, is also be covered.
   Pneumatic conveying of bulk solids covers a wide range of equipment types and common problems associated with them. Delegates will gain an understanding of pneumatic conveying operating principles, determine their effectiveness, troubleshoot the source of problems and subsequently apply solutions to improve efficiency.
   The courses are aimed at design, project and research engineers and personnel responsible for solving and preventing flow problems or purchasing solids handling equipment. There are also workshop sessions to enable participants to work out problems, applying the theory they have learned.
• Register online at www.asme.org/education or call 1-800-THE-ASME (1-800-843-2763)
   |   17:14 12/08/2008

Energy efficiency uppermost
Germany. UWT GmbH-Level Control, the solids level measurement specialist, has started work on a new €2 m production and office building. Continuous business success and a resulting increase in employees are behind the expansion which is less than three years after completion of the last office building .
   MDs Peter Schropp and Uwe Niekrawietz plan to double the number of employees over the next seven years - currently there are 115 people in the UWT group worldwide, with over 70 in Betzigau, Germany.The building will be completed by the end of 2008.
   Cost savings and climate friendly energy efficiency will be key features of the development. This will be achieved by an airtight outer shell, a heat recovery ventilation system, installation of an ultra modern pellet heating system and a thermal solar energy system, requiring only 5 - 6 kWh per square metre annually. The use of wood for the construction was considered an essential element.
   |   16:54 12/08/2008

Air treatment company acquisition
Belgium. Munters has entered into an agreement to acquire Belgian-based Toussaint Nyssenne, manufacturers of air conditioning systems.
   Located in Dison, Belgium, Toussaint Nyssenne manufactures customised highly flexible and modular air conditioning systems, providing air treatment for a wide variety of applications.
  Munters Dehumidification Division, headquartered in Huntingdon, UK, specialises in air treatment solutions. One aspect of its expertise involves the elimination of mould, frost and bacterial growth in commodities.
   The acquisition is designed to continue Munters strategic growth initiative in energy-efficient air treatment solutions, strengthening its position and presence in Europe through synergies in product integration, technology and distribution.
   |   12:22 04/08/2008

New MD for Kemutec
UK. Kemutec Powder Technologies Ltd has announced the appointment of George Tunnicliffe as new MD, effective 1 August 2008.
   Mr Tunnicliffe has 30 years experience in the powder handling and processing Industry and was instrumental in creating Kemutec Powder Technologies Ltd, formed in 2005 as part of a management led buyout. More recently, Mr Tunnicliffe managed Kemutec's acquisition of PPS in 2006.
   The appointment is part of a management restructure at Kemutec, with Tony Goodwin and Steve Bayley appointed operations director and technical director respectively. They join Martin Thomson, sales director, responsible for all sales activity outside the US and Rob Dallow, president of Kemutec Powder Technologies Inc.
   Commenting on his appointment, Mr Tunnicliffe said that he had spent the majority of his career at Kemutec and was delighted to be given the opportunity to lead a talented board and a company at the forefront of powder processing technology. “I am excited at the prospect of being part of a management team that will take Kemutec forward and build on it's leading position in the market", he added.
   |   11:29 01/08/2008

Move to Swiss facility
Switzerland. The K-Tron Process Group is to move its pneumatic conveying production facilities from Stockport, UK to Niederlenz, Switzerland. This will result in the formation of a new European centre of excellence for vacuum pneumatic conveying systems based in Stockport.
   The changes are said to be a direct result of the success of K-Tron's pneumatic conveying business since acquiring Pneumatic Conveying Systems Ltd in 2001 and future business expansion expected from the recent purchase of Premier Pneumatics Inc, Salina, USA.
   The production facility at Stockport is no longer considered large enough to handle current demand for the product line and the imminent introduction of the Premier Pneumatics line into Europe and Asia is expected to put further demands on production. Product lines will be manufactured under ISO procedures using existing computerised manufacturing systems designed to improve K-Tron's ability to serve the rapidly increasing UK and international client base with documentation and after sales support in different languages.
   There will be heavy investment in the extensive Niederlenz test lab facility to provide one-stop full scale material testing abilities. K-Tron’s sales, engineering and after sales presence in the Stockport area will be maintained with the office acting as the European centre of excellence for engineering vacuum conveying and material handling systems. The number of project engineers based in Stockport has been increased to facilitate the initiative.
www.ktron.com
   |   18:06 17/07/2008

Investment in design software
Ireland. GEA Ireland, Ireland's process integration arm of the €4.5 bn GEA Group, is utilising AutoCAD P&ID to enhance its design capability.
   At the company's office in Naas, Co. Kildare, the process design team is using the latest incarnation of AutoCAD which includes a dedicated tool for Process & Instrumentation Design (P&ID), allowing designs to be completed more quickly and providing a better flow of information about each design within the organisation.
   The team, seasoned users of AutoCAD, had a requirement to improve its P&ID capabilities. Early demonstrations indicated savings in design time, but, according to design team leader J P Brady, a major consideration was the graphical legacy information created in previous versions of AutoCAD.
  "We had about 350 standard GEA Equipment blocks - or objects as they now are - relating to the components we use. Fortunately, importing them into AutoCAD P&ID and attaching relevant information to them was really simple”. This is said to save huge amounts of redrawing time, and is a bonus when dealing with US clients who use different sizing conventions.
   "Process engineers are expensive," said Brady. "The fact that they will no longer have to manually produce valve lists, instrument or equipment lists, and they 'pop' out of the back of the system through the excel or database links, is a worthwhile cost saving”. The current process for updating even a couple of lines of text on a P&ID involves a process engineer, a draughtsman and at least one cycle of checking between the two. Giving the process engineer access to the P&IDs through, say, a network front end, allows changes to be made via a database immediately.
   Brady said that maintenance engineers around the world can access current P&IDs on a laptop via the web or email rather than having to refer to paper drawings.
Tel: +353 45 981 370
   |   08:53 20/06/2008

Masterbatch facility for Dubai
UAE. Cabot Corp has announced plans to build a carbon black masterbatch manufacturing facility in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai. Initial production capacity is expected to be 25,000 t per year with provision to expand to 75,000 t in the future. A plot of land has already been secured and construction will begin later this year, with production scheduled to start in autumn 2009.
   The state-of-the-art manufacturing facility will include the latest environmental and manufacturing technologies to ensure high quality products. Laboratories, administration offices, production and packaging will all be located within the building.
   The plant will allow Cabot to better meet increasing demand from customers in the Middle East, Europe and Asia Pacific regions. The Middle East, now a major producer of polyolefins and downstream compounds, is expected to produce one-fifth of the world's polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) by 2010 .
   Cabot VP and General Manager for the Performance Segment, Sean Keohane said, "Within the Middle East there is already strong demand for PE and PP compounds for use in building infrastructure for water supply, electricity, and telecommunications projects. These are key markets for carbon black masterbatch".
17:51 03/06/2008

Second fumed silica plant
China. Cabot Corp’s subsidiary, Cabot (China) Ltd, has signed a joint venture agreement with China National Bluestar Group to build a fumed silica manufacturing facility in China.
   The agreement represents an expansion of the relationship between the two companies, which began with construction of the first fumed silica facility in Jiangxi province in 2004.
   Cabot Bluestar Chemical (Tianjin) Co Ltd, the new joint venture company, will invest around $40 m in the plant which will have a capacity of approximately 7000 t per year. It will be located in Tianjin, China and will be commissioned in early 2010, helping growth in the Chinese silicone industry.
17:35 03/06/2008

Award recognises contribution
UK. Prof Alan Reed of the University of Greenwich has been presented with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers' Bulk Materials Handling Committee's prestigious Solids Handling Award, recognising his valuable contribution to the powder and bulk handling and processing sector.
  Currently Director of Regional Liaison (Kent and Medway) and Professor, Medway School of Engineering at the University of Greenwich, his long and illustrious career has been strongly associated at all stages with research projects that are directly beneficial to industry, working with a long list of industrial partners over the years.
   In 1989 he was instrumental in establishing the Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology, attracting financial support from the Wolfson Foundation and developing it into one of the world's leading research groups in its field. In excess of £3m of external funding has been attracted to undertake research from organisations such as the EPSRC, DTI, Department of Energy, the Wolfson Foundation, the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, HEFCE, PCFC and NAB, as well as industry.
   One of the largest assignments that Prof Reed has been involved in to date is the £1.4m EPSRC funded Quality in Particulate Manufacturing (QPM) project, initiated to develop techniques to preserve the quality of particulate materials, such as cornflakes, muesli and sugars, during manufacturing processes. Carried out in association with the Centre of Numerical Modelling and Process Analysis, University of Greenwich and Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey, the project attracted an additional £1m of funding from industrial partners that included GlaxoSmithKline, Unilever, Tate and Lyle, United Biscuits, Borax Europe and Morgan.
   Particulate handling technology developed during the project has already helped one UK-based multinational pharmaceutical company to cut manufacturing losses by £1m at a new processing plant. QPM is designed to effectively reduce problems that can occur, such as lumping, breakage and separation, when handling particulate materials. Greenwich University's Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology has also been highly commended for its work at an IChemE awards ceremony for innovation.
• Further information about the Wolfson Centre: Tel: +44 (0) 20 8331 8646 Email: wolfson-enquiries@gre.ac.uk Website: www.gre.ac.uk/wolfson
09:02 02/06/2008

FLSmidth acquires pressure filter technology
USA. FLSmidth has acquired the automatic pressure filter business of US-based Pneumapress Inc, a global leader in fully automatic pressure filtration and drying technology. The transaction is valued at approximately $18 m. Pneumapress is headquartered in Richmond, California, USA, with assembly and testing facilities in Antioch, California.
   From a privately held company founded in 1989 with a single module filter, Pneumapress has developed into an innovator with its state of the art multi-module tower press, rapidly capturing market share particularly in mineral slurries and iron ore applications. The technology applies pressurised air and gases as opposed to the more conventional approach of vacuum and mechanical pressures, reducing moisture to near zero per cent and eliminating costly dryer installations in many cases, says the company.
   The filter technology has potential applications in nearly every flowsheet where filtration is required. Combining Pneumapress with the recent acquisition of Dorr-Oliver Eimco and Krebs Engineers is seen as advancing FLSmidth Minerals’ position as a global leader in liquid/solids solutions for the minerals industry.
12:48 27/05/2008

ISO 14001 certification
UK. Mono® NOV, leading designer and manufacturer of pumps, parts, grinders, screens and packaged systems, has gained ISO 14001 certification.This follows the implementation of an Environmental Management System (EMS), ensuring compliance with environmental legal requirements, prevention of pollution and delivery of continuous improvement in environmental performance.
   The EMS will be audited and monitored by a UKAS certified body on an ongoing basis in accordance with the requirements of the standards. Mono's MD, Paul Naylon, said that certification is a positive step for the company, clearly demonstrating its dedication to continually improving environmental performance.
  "With the commitment of the entire company, this EMS will enable Mono to address the delicate balance between maximising productivity and reducing the impact that Mono's activities can have on the local environment, as well as on a nationwide scale", said Naylon.
   The award is a double celebration for the company as they have also been awarded the Investors in People Award (IPP).
21:53 22/05/2008

ACHEMA’s commitment to research and innovation
Germany. ACHEMA 2009, the leading international event for chemical engineering, environmental protection and biotechnology, is underlining its commitment to research and innovation worldwide by offering universities free exhibition booths within the event's Research and Innovation area. This will enable establishments to exhibit their research skills and capabilities to an anticipated 180,000 visitors from 100 countries.
   "At the last ACHEMA event in 2006, three British universities were amongst the more than 250 exhibitors from research-based establishments involved predominantly in process engineering, measurement and control, materials science and biotechnology," explained Mike Day, UK and Ireland representative for the organising company. "The Research and Innovation area will have a more centralised location in 2009 and we encourage many more UK universities to make the most of this major opportunity to be at the hub of 4000 global exhibitors from 50 countries."
   Greatly reduced stand costs are also offered to any start-up companies established since mid-2006, providing them with a low cost opportunity to showcase their skills and capabilities in the same shop window as bigger, more established companies.
   The exhibition, which takes place in Frankfurt am Main, Germany from 11 to 15 May 2009, is also hosting a special show addressing the green theme of Chemistry and Biotechnology for Renewable Resources and Energy. Special low rate tariffs are offered to potential exhibitors at this event.
  The ACHEMA Congress, running in conjunction with the exhibition, features more than 900 specialist lectures and offers exhibitors the opportunity to explain and illustrate in more detail the benefit of their technologies.
• Contact: Mike Day Tel: + 44 (0) 1256 329743
Email: MDayatACHEMAUK@aol.com
www.achema.de
11:07 19/05/2008

Appointment to help growth plan
UK. Structure-flex has recruited Richard Osborn as general manager, with responsibilities that are tied into a demanding three-year business plan.
  Mr Osborn’s previous posts have included working with family owned companies similar in size and structure to Structure-flex, as well as experience of corporate businesses such as ICL and The Ford Motor Company.
   Commenting on the appointment, MD Ian Doughty said, "Richard is a manufacturing professional, and I believe he is well qualified and experienced to take responsibility for the day-to-day running of a company which is continuing to develop as a result of growing world-wide sales."
   Structure-flex is a leading provider of bulk packaging solutions to the global food, pharmaceutical, chemical, oil and gas industries, and a leading supplier of vehicle tension curtains and lifting products.
Tel: +44 (0) 1263 863 100
21:34 14/05/2008

ASME/AIChE sponsored courses
USA. Jenike & Johanson engineers are presenting ASME/AIChE sponsored courses which are reviewed and approved by the AIChE Education Services Committee.
   Flow of solids in bins, hoppers, chutes and feeders takes place on 10 - 11 June 2008 in San Francisco, USA, and covers equipment types and solutions to flow problems commonly associated with them. The aim is to gain a better understanding of how friction, cohesion, compressibility and other properties affect solids flow through various types of feeders, chutes, reactors, bins and hoppers.
   Delegates will learn how to specify and select the hardware best suited to solve flow problems, including retrofitting existing equipment to correct flow problems and solving problems associated with solids handling, such as lost production, plant downtime, extra labour, poor quality control, spoiled material and unreliable equipment.
   Pneumatic conveying of bulk solids is another course that takes place on 12 June 2008 in San Francisco, USA, covering different types of equipment and solutions to commonly encountered problems. Here the objective is to provide a better understanding of pneumatic conveying operating principles to help evaluate in-plant systems and determine effectiveness.
   Delegates will be given an insight into, troubleshooting conveying problems and applying various solutions to improve efficiency, choosing a conveying system layout based upon proper principles of operation and choosing system components. Importantly, the course will provide critical design methodology for dealing with bulk solids emergencies and planning new installations or plant expansions which incorporate solids handling.
   Courses are targeted at design, project and research engineers, as well as plant personnel responsible for solving and preventing flow problems or purchasing equipment. Course fee for the two-day session is $1,095 for ASME/AIChE members and $1,195 for non-members. Fee for the one-day pneumatic conveying course is $745 for ASME/AIChE members and $845 for non-members. There are also ‘early bird’ registration discounts.
• Register online at www.asme.org/education or call 1-800-THE-ASME (1-800-843-2763)
10:24 14/05/2008

Why it pays to be an engineer!
UK. New statistics published by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) indicate that chemical engineers have enjoyed a 9 per cent pay rise since 2006. The 2008 IChemE Salary Survey reveals that the median salary for chemical engineers in the UK and Ireland has risen to £47,000 per year.
   Welcoming the news. Dr David Brown, IChemE chief executive, said that there has never been a better time to be a chemical engineer: “Not only are the salaries of experienced chemical engineers on the up, the average chemical engineering graduate salary is now £26,000 per year”, he said.
  Demand for chemical and process engineers is growing and international concern regarding the impact of climate change will mean that chemical and process engineers will be responsible for finding solutions.
   The survey also revealed that engineers choosing to work towards chartered status are reaping further rewards. A chartered chemical engineer in their 30s can expect to earn 17 per cent more than a non-chartered professional of the same age, rising to 38 per cent for a chartered professional in their 50s.
22:33 07/05/2008

Irish agent appointed
In a strategic move aimed at increasing new equipment sales in the important Irish market, Nottingham-based Chronos Richardson has appointed a new agent in Ireland.
   Goliath Packaging Systems of Nenagh, Co Tipperary, will assume responsibility for selling the complete Chronos Richardson range of weighing, bagging and palletising systems. Working on a non-exclusive basis and reporting to regional sales manager Martin Roe, the agent will use its extensive industry knowledge to promote the product portfolio.
   Commenting on the development, general manager Peter Orme said that the company recognise the importance of having a locally based company representing them in this important market. “George O’Leary of Goliath Packaging Systems has many years experience in the packaging sector and in the coming months he will focus on improving new equipment sales for us in Ireland”, said Orme.
  “We believe that this exciting new partnership will enable both new and existing customers in Ireland to realise the benefits provided by our internationally proven weighing, bagging and palletising equipment.”
www.chronosrichardson.com
www.goliath.ie
15:08 22/04/2008

Nationalisation plans
Venezuela. Holcim Venezuela has been informed by the Venezuelan government that it plans to nationalise all foreign cement producers operating in the country. The acquisition of at least 60 per cent of the share capital of the companies affected is to be instigated as soon as possible, and Holcim Venezuela has been called on to nominate a negotiating delegation.
   Holcim has operated in the country since 1978, when the Group acquired a minority holding in Cementos Caribe. Following the merger with another private cement company, Holcim successively increased its stake in Holcim Venezuela – a major national producer of building materials – to 99.9 per cent.
   In the forthcoming negotiations, the aim is to find a solution that is satisfactory to both sides, and safeguard the interests of the Venezuelan Group company and its employees.
   The company operates two cement plants in Puerto Cumarebo and San Sebastián with an annual capacity of 2.9 mt, producing exclusively for the domestic market at the request of the Venezuelan government. There are also ready-mix concrete facilities and aggregates plants and an average of $20m per annum has been invested in efficiency improvements and environmental measures over the the past eight years.
21:32 13/04/2008

Corporate name change
Canada. Bulkflow Technologies Inc has changed its name to Solex Thermal Science Inc to more accurately reflect the strengths and value it offers customers.
     Founded in 1999 as Bulkflow Technologies Inc, Solex Thermal Science Inc specialises in heating, cooling and drying free flowing bulk solids such as sugar, salt, fertiliser, chemicals, plastics, biosolids, minerals and other types of granular, crystals and powder. The original cooler technology was invented more than 20 years ago and was acquired by Bulkflow in 1999.
   Solex heat exchanger technology provides direct heating and cooling of free flowing powders and bulk solids utilising a vertical bank of closely spaced heat exchanger plates. As product passes slowly downward under gravity, it can be cooled (or heated) using conduction. A mass flow discharge feeder regulates product flow and creates uniform product velocity.
www.solexthermal.com
10:46 04/04/2008

Research breakthrough using powder tester
UK. Researchers at the University of Bath,UK are using Freeman Technology’s FT4 Powder Rheometer to understand and optimise the performance of dry powder inhalers (DPIs). Recently published data highlights a direct correlation between the flow properties of excipient powders, measured with the FT4 under aerating conditions, and the effectiveness of drug delivery of carrier based DPI formulations.
   Data will be presented at RDD Respiratory Drug Delivery 2008 (11 - 15 May, Arizona, USA) by Drs Jagdeep Shur and Robert Price of the Pharmaceutical Surface Science Group, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath.
   Relatively coarse excipient particles are used to improve the flow properties of micronised active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) used in DPIs. In practice, a patient inhales, drawing air through the device, fluidising the resulting blend and stripping API from the excipient, for deposition in the lung - a process that is promoted by including excipient fines.
   Using the FT4 universal powder tester, samples can be characterised under aerating/fluidising conditions. In this particular case the instrument was used to measure aerated flow energy, bulk density, compressibility and permeability for various DPI blends. A direct correlation was observed between aerated flow energy and fine particle dose - the amount of formulation deposited in the lung - which both increased with increasing fines.
   Results suggest that higher fines concentrations increase the resistance of the bed to flow, ultimately subjecting the powder to higher aerodynamic drag forces during fluidisation, the forces encouraging API removal from the excipient, enhancing drug delivery to the lung.
www.freemantech.co.uk
12:54 02/04/2008

Website update
UK. Following a move to new factory premises in Nottingham, UK, Chronos Richardson has taken a step forward with its company development programme by implementing the first in a series of updates to its website at www.servicechronos.com
   The homepage now reflects the full weighing, bagging and palletising product portfolio, with the addition of a news page to update customers on a diverse range of special offers and promotions. This includes a discount offer on service and spare parts, a request to acquire surplus equipment from customers and details of Chronos-Approved pre-owned machines.
   General Manager, Peter Orme said that like many suppliers around the world, the company recognises the challenging trading conditions that many customers face. The updated website is therefore there to help customers ensure optimum production from weighing, bagging and palletising equipment in challenging economic conditions.
www.servicechronos.com
www.chronosrichardson.com
15:25 31/03/2008

Combustible dust program
USA. A directive (CPL 03-00-006) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an agency of the US Department of Labor, which initiates a Combustible Dust - National Emphasis Program (NEP), will require OSHA offices to begin inspections of sites that handle combustible dusts, specifically targeting dust explosion hazards.
   Chilworth Technology has produced an article, to help industry better understand the program, which can be downloaded from their website.
www.chilworth.com/articles/Focus2007-9-OSHAInstructionsonCombustibleDusts.pdf
12:14 28/03/2008

Wide range at Chinaplas
USA. K-Tron Process Group has introduced a new version of its Micro Cone low rate feeder to the Asian market at the Chinaplas plastics and rubber industries exhibition in Shanghai, China. By utilising a screw-less rotating tube or cone, the feeder is capable of dosing at rates as low as 0.2 to 2 cu dec per hr.
   The latest version, which uses KCM controls and a stepper motor, is available in volumetric and gravimetric models and can also be incorporated into the K4G blender stand to offer on-line feeding of very low rate additives.
   The exhibition booth featured a wide range of equipment including: new extrusion control system; new K-Vision feeder operator interface; Bulk Solids Pump™ (BSP) feeder family; K4G blender with integrated Premier Pneumatics vacuum receivers for refill; Quick Change Feeder; and smart weigh belt feeder.
   A computerised demonstration highlighted the capabilities of the new gravimetric extrusion control system. The K4G blender on display illustrated the significance of the weigh hopper an integral part of the extrusion control system, receiving material from the blender and weighing it on its way into the extruder. Extrusion control gravimetrically measures extruder throughput and adjusts speed to maintain the desired rate and provide consistent end product quality.
   The system is implemented in the KCM feeder controller and also in the K-Tron Smart Commander (KSC) feeder operator interface for co-extrusion of multiple layers. The package offers mass flow or weight-per-length control, gravimetrically controlling the layer recipe and acting as a mass flow sensor.
   Several product lines from K-Tron's Premier Pneumatics brand were also displayed, including heavy duty (HD) and maximum duty (MD) Aerolock™ rotary valves as well as light duty (LD) and blow-through (BT) models - a line that includes over 150 styles and sizes.
   Since acquiring Premier Pneumatics in 2006, K-Tron now uses the Premier Pneumatics brand name for all of its pneumatic conveying lines. The Premier model P10 and P30 vacuum receivers (formerly sold under the PCS brand name) are shown. P-Series receivers can convey delicate materials and free flowing to poorly flowing powders.
www.ktron.com.
13:22 18/03/2008

Off-the-shelf ATEX solution
UK. Braby, leading manufacturer of ATEX compliant aluminium and stainless steel silos, has launched Vacatex™; its first standard, low cost, fully ATEX compliant vacuum transfer and batch weighing package for the food industry. The system meets DSEAR and ATEX 137 regulations for fire and explosion prevention in the workplace.
   Sales and Marketing Director, Paul Mayer said that installing new equipment and ensuring it is ATEX compliant is a major concern for the food industry, and, for many small to medium companies, cost can be a big issue. The Vacatex™ storage and handling system not only provides a cost effective solution, but enables companies to become ATEX compliant more easily. It means that there is now an 'off-the-shelf' solution to replace non-ATEX compliant machinery for companies who cannot necessarily afford expensive bespoke bulk handling packages.
   Braby's in-house team of experts designed and project managed the system and many advanced orders have already been received. The system meets ATEX design criterion, which includes a full design study, risk assessment and HAZOP technical file identifying risk and solution. Some of the areas included are: shock pressure, operating pressure, vent area and calculated design stress. An EC declaration also accompanies the equipment.
www.braby.co.uk
16:34 17/03/2008

New MD for GEA Niro GmbH - Buck
Germany. Roland Luchte has taken over from Martin Koch as MD of GEA Niro GmbH - Buck in Müllheim, Germany. The company is a member of the GEA Pharma Systems group and manufactures high containment valves for safe transfer of active and toxic ingredients during pharmaceutical processing. Koch will remain with the company to focus on research and development operations.
   Luchte is a chemical engineer who has been with GEA for over five years, previously working with GEA Jet Pumps in Ettlingen handling sales of gas scrubbing equipment, and joined GEA Niro GmbH - Buck on the 1 January. This coincided with GEA’s creation of a separate H-Division to bring together all companies within the Group specialising in the pharmaceutical industry (Buck, Courtoy, Niro, Lyophil, Aeromatic-Fielder and Collette). Luchte said that the main focus would be on increasing sales, looking for new applications within the pharmaceutical industry.
   The high containment valve range now includes the Buck®Valve MC, a new concept that is designed to make the transfer of active ingredients or chemicals between IBCs much easier and less expensive. HiCoFlex technology is a self-locking coupling which allows highly sensitive or toxic powders and granules to be transferred safely from flexible sacks into process or vice versa. Recently introduced is Hicoflex ZL (Ziplock), intended for non-dusty applications and a high containment version that combines both the standard HiCoFlex SL and HiCoFlex ZL technology for additional exposure protection.
www.geapharmasystems.com
16:57 17/03/2008

Strong earnings growth
France. Another year of strong earnings growth is reported by Lafarge’s board of directors at a meeting to approve accounts for the financial year to December 31, 2007. Sales were up 4 per cent to €17,614 m, current operating income up 17 per cent to €3,242 m, and operating margin up sharply to 18.4 per cent from 16.4 per cent in 2006.
   Worldwide cement demand has experienced uninterrupted growth over nearly twenty years, regardless of economic fluctuations, said Bruno Lafont, Lafarge Chairman and CEO. He said that by building new capacity in fast growing markets and recently acquiring Orascom Cement, the company is in a position to fully benefit from this trend. There are still considerable construction needs in emerging markets and Lafarge anticipate further growth in global demand in spite of prevailing conditions of weak demand in the US and slowdown in Spain.
   Highlights for 2007 included the start up of new plants in northern Iraq and Algeria and the programme to build 45 mt of new cement capacity by 2010 progressing. The company’s gypsum business was also affected by the US residential market slowdown with sales down 3 per cent, but there was an increase in other markets, particularly in Western and Eastern Europe.
21:01 17/02/2008

Acquisition completed
Lafarge and Orascom Construction Industries have completed the acquisition of Orascom Cement by Lafarge, originally announced on 10 December 2007. Orascom Construction Industries (OCI) was established in Egypt in 1950 and is composed of two main groups - the Cement Group and Construction Group.
   It is one of the major cement producers and construction conglomerates in the Middle East and North Africa and its operations extend into regional markets that include North Africa, Gulf States, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria and Iraq. As a cement producer it is collectively regarded as the largest cement producer in the Middle East.
19:00 24/01/2008

Full order book
Switzerland. The Buhler Technology Group has reported that orders worth CHF 1,835m were booked in 2007, a figure 8.5 per cent above the previous year's level.
   Overall, the Group is said to have benefited from a sound market environment, despite some customer segments responding to rises in grain prices and stiff competition in the automotive sector putting pressure on capital spending. Buhler says that its powerful sales and customer service platforms proved to be of strategic significance in all markets. Growth was sharp in the Group's major market regions.
   In Europe, order bookings were boosted by 15 per cent, with Eastern Europe in particular achieving above average growth of 20 per cent. The region of North, Central, and South America saw an increase in order intake by some 24 per cent, but in other regions, the situation was more diverse. In Africa, order bookings declined again and, despite political and economic turmoil, business in the Middle East and China remained constant. India improved markedly.
   The expectation is an above average improvement over the previous year in terms of both sales turnover and earnings. The Group started the new year with a large backlog of orders.
   Buhler, a global leader in the supply of process engineering solutions, especially production technologies for manufacturing foods and engineering materials, is present in over 140 countries and employs about 6,600 persons worldwide.
17:00 24/01/2008

Opportunity for UK Solids sector
UK solids handling companies now have the opportunity to attend a two-part event in the Czech Republic on 9 - 12 September 2008. UK Trade and Investment in conjunction with the International Solids Handling Advisory Board (ISHAB)* are organising local industry visits and meetings coupled with attendance at the BulkEurope Conference in Prague where over 200 international delegates are expected, including many from developing countries.
   A comprehensive programme is planned, including:
• Local customer meetings prearranged via UKTI OMIS scheme
• Reception at the British Ambassador’s residence
• Conference dinner sponsored by UKTI with keynote speech by ISHAB
  chairman Steve Clewley
• UK stand at the conference
• UK Solids Handling Sector Guide of suppliers
• Mentoring of suppliers to help secure meetings
   Those attending will therefore benefit from developing market opportunities in the country and surrounding regions and networking with international conference delegates, fully supported by ISHAB/UKTI.
• Contact: Oakley Associates Ltd, 3 The Meadows, Monk Fryston, North Yorkshire LS25 5PJ Tel: 01977 682790
Email: Trevor@oakleyassociates.co.uk
* ISHAB Ltd is an alliance of MHEA (Materials Handling Engineers Association) and SHAPA (Solids Handling and Processing Association) set up to promote and develop international trade for the UK solids handling sector
15:32 23/01/2008

Valve challenge announced
UK. Vortex Valves is celebrating a double success, after gaining new accreditations in safety and quality. ATEX approval for explosive environments and ISO9001 quality systems certification now support the company’s range of valves.
   The complete range is now ATEX approved for Group II, Category 2 - Zones 1 and 21 plus Group II, Category 3 - Zones 2 and 22. ATEX-approved accessories and control packages are also available for Group II categories and applications. Both achievements have come in little over a year since Vortex Valves Europe was launched in the UK by its US parent company, with MD Jon Naylor heading up the UK operation.
   He explained that in the first 12 months, the company had focused on introducing the valve range to industry using a mobile demonstration service. Now a challenge has been issued, inviting anyone with a troublesome valve to have it replaced by a Vortex valve, free of charge. A new website dedicated to UK and European customers has also been launched detailing accreditations and the replacement valve challenge.
www.vortexvalveseurope.com
15:31 23/01/2008

Double boost for chem eng
UK. Two new UK chemical engineering research facilities have opened within the space of 48 hours, ahead of record student intake figures.
   The opening of the new multi-million pound DICE (Driving Innovation in Chemistry and Engineering) research centre sets The University of Nottingham on a course to become a world leader in ‘clean’ chemistry and engineering. The centre’s dual role will be to discover new sustainable technologies while inspiring youngsters at school and university, encouraging them to consider chemistry or engineering as a career.
   DICE’s focus will be on rapid innovation in environmentally friendly ways of making chemicals. The aim is to make more efficient use of energy, safer chemical products, renewable raw materials, ‘zero-waste’ processes and related research.
   The development follows hot on the heels of a new research laboratory recently opened at Strathclyde University’s Department of Chemical and Process Engineering. UCAS’ final 2007 UK university admission figures indicate a record takeup of chemical engineering undergraduate schemes.
11:58 16/01/2008

New company to focus on inorganic waste
UK. SRM, one of Europe's largest hazardous waste recycling companies, has formed a new company, Minerals Resource Management, jointly owned and funded by Castle Cement.
   MRM says that it is looking for wastes that contain oxides of calcium, silicon and aluminium which can be found in many different types of waste, even washed eggshells - which consist mainly of calcium carbonate - for use as a substitute for mined limestone within the cement making process.
     MD Stewart McGown explains that the formation of the new company brings specific focus onto organic wastes that would otherwise go to landfill, now increasingly environmentally and commercially undesirable. Castle Cement already claims to be the UK's lowest emitter of carbon dioxide per tonne of cement. The new company's aim is to help increase sustainability by utilising greater amounts of waste instead of virgin raw materials.
   The list of materials that potentially could be used in the cement making process is endless and includes foundry sands, slag wastes, air pollution control wastes and ceramic tile wastes to name but a few. MRM will initially analyse such material to ensure compatibility with the cement-making process, both in respect of emissions and cement quality.
22:03 09/01/2008

Call for papers
UK. A call for papers for the Bulk08 conference is announced. Organised by the Materials Handling Engineers Association (MHEA), the event takes place in Blackpool, UK on 17 and 18 April 2008.
   Those interested in presenting a paper should send a 30-word synopsis to Dr Harold Wright at hw@mhea.co.uk. Those requiring early registration should also email hw@mhea.co.uk quoting "YES to Bulk08 at Blackpool".
• Contact: Tel/fax: 01642 570045 Email: hw@mhea.co.uk
Website: www.mhea.co.uk
22:03 09/01/2008

Tyre recycling to be rubber stamped
UK. With more than 100,000 used tyres removed from UK vehicles daily, a new initiative launched by WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme) and the Environment Agency is designed to help businesses come to grips with the value of this resource.
   Termed The Quality Protocol for the production and use of tyre-derived rubber materials and launched to consultation today, it could make it easier and cheaper for industry to reprocess used tyres into valuable products like flooring, road surfacing, aggregates and footwear.
   Martin Brocklehurst, Head of External Waste Programmes at the Environment Agency, said that if the entire annual tyre waste of England and Wales was placed end to end it would stretch from London to Cardiff more than 100 times. There is apparently the potential to access more than 40,000 t of recycled rubber.
   Mr Brocklehurst explained that such a Quality Protocol could save businesses the time and costs associated with meeting waste regulations, by clearly defining the standards required to collect, transport, store, recycle and reuse rubber tyres, importantly without harming human health and the environment. Under such a regime, processed used tyres would no longer be classified as waste, making the recycled rubber more marketable and guaranteeing customers that material they buy would meet agreed quality standards.
   Dr Richard Swannell from WRAP, said that the arrangement could potentially stimulate growth in the reprocessing sector, providing easier access to an important resource with a significant number of applications.
10:27 08/01/2008

Engineering department doubled
USA. Flexicon Corp, the US-based bulk solids handling specialists, have doubled the size of its engineering department and increased engineering personnel by 50 percent at its 8361 sq m manufacturing facility and world headquarters.
   Vice president John Simonof stated that “Engineering is the heart of Flexicon” and the latest development responds to the fact that US engineering staff had outgrown available space, limiting the hiring of additional personnel. Inventory space was therefore converted to a purpose-built engineering department which became operational in October 2007, providing space for additional staff while improving workflow efficiency.
   In addition to the engineering of equipment and systems, engineering staff are also responsible for new equipment designs, for which numerous patents have been awarded in 32 countries, and for designs that comply with evolving certifications required by governmental and industry associations for chemical, food, dairy, and pharmaceutical applications worldwide. The space previously occupied by the department has allowed a corresponding expansion of the technical service and applications engineering departments.
   To date, the engineering department has compiled performance data on over 10,000 installations that engineers, at its manufacturing sites in the US, UK, Australia and South Africa, can reference when designing equipment and systems for specialised applications.
   It was in 2002 that the US headquarters doubled the combined area of separate manufacturing facilities it previously operated in Phillipsburg, NJ and Easton, PA.
www.flexicon.com
14:04 07/01/2008

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