BETHLEHEM, PA — A new TIP-TITE® Mobile Drum Dumper with integral flexible screw conveyor is designed for use in hazardous locations. It allows volumetric feeding of bulk material from drums into downstream processes dust free and with minimal operator intervention. The system is mounted on a mobile frame with quick-action floor jacks for stable operation anywhere in the plant.

The hydraulic power unit used to lift, seal and tip the drums is powered pneumatically, eliminating the risk of potential sparks from electrical or other equipment that might otherwise be used to actuate the hydraulics. As an additional safeguard, the controls for the flexible screw conveyor are mounted on extended support brackets, placing them outside of the hazardous zone.

The unit accommodates drums from 30 to 55 gal (115 to 200 liters) and measuring 36 to 48 in. (91 to 122 cm) in height. After the drum is placed in the lifting carriage, the carriage is raised against a rubber gasket mounted inside the discharge cone, creating a dust tight seal. The entire apparatus is then tipped, with a motion-dampening feature stopping

the process when the pre-determined dump angle is reached.

The material exits the discharge cone and into the charging adapter of the flexible screw conveyor. Fully enclosed inside polymer or steel tubing, the inner screw of the conveyor is the only moving part contacting material, resulting in reduced maintenance and increased reliability. As the screw rotates, it self-centers within the tube, providing ample clearance between the screw and the tube wall to eliminate or minimize grinding. The drive motor is located beyond the point at which the material exits the conveyor, preventing contact with bearings or seals.

It can be rolled into storage when not in use, or to a designated area for cleaning during material changeovers. The system is available constructed of carbon steel with durable industrial finishes, with material contact surfaces of stainless steel, or in all-stainless steel finished to food, dairy, or pharmaceutical standards. A broad range of screws with specialized geometries is available to handle free- and non-free-flowing materials, including products that pack, cake or smear in other types of conveyors.