Multi-Ingredient Handling Systems

Storage

Due to the complexity of the variety of components on interchangeable storage containers, the Coperion MIH concept is based on exchangeable storage receptacles, that are only used if the respectively contained product is part of the recipe. Containers which are not required can be stored outside the dosing area to save space. On the one hand, this reduces the space required in the active dosing area while on the other hand the number of dosing hardware required is reduced to the active ingredients in the dosing.

Some of the transport receptacles commonly used for bulk materials can be used directly at the respective dosing points (IBC, bigbag) or the bulk materials are transferred into standardized receptacles (bag, octabin). Furthermore, pneumatic feeding from silos is possible too.

Dosing

Dosing is the core of a MIH system and can be carried out automatically or manually. For both manual and automated dosing of bulk material, aspiration must be provided due to the expected dust formation. In addition, both types of dosing have a control system, which in the case of manual dosing is implemented in form of an operator guidance system.

With the automated dosing system ADD-A-LOT, Coperion offers a flexible solution for use in a MIH system. Learn more about the ADD-A-LOT.

Mixing

During the mixing process in a MIH system the dosed ingredients are turned into a premix that is as homogeneous as possible. Does the premix consist solely of granular bulk materials, the Coperion MIX-A-LOT is used. For non-granular premixes, Coperion has a large number of experienced partners in the field of mixing technology and the required container mixers.

The mechanical bulk material mixer MIX-A-LOT ensures particularly efficient, high-speed and gentle homogenization of fed material. The readily accessible and easy to clean mixer is available in three sizes for throughput rates up to 5 t/h, there is also an ATEX version. The surface of the mixing chamber can be electro polished.

The combination of an outstanding mixing effect and extremely short mixing time is due to the optimized design of the mixing rotor. Its low circumferential velocities and the optimum design of the gap to the housing, permit gentle handling without particle destruction or heating of the product.

Transportation

Both the exchange of storage containers and the transport of the premix IBCs are fundamental to the operations of a MIH system. In addition, intralogistics is an important control lever for the degree of automation of the system.

For transportation issues in a MIH system, different options are available: Manual transportation, conventional conveyor technology or automated guided vehicle. Together with Coperion, the appropriate intralogistics solution for will be selected.