Metering at Ultra-low Levels

Phil Black - PII Editor 19/11/2018

281 1 minute read

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Trantec have developed a micro dosing screw feeder capable of extremely low feed rates and unrivalled accuracy. Combining Trantec’s twenty plus years experience in powder metering feeders with their in-house CNC manufacturing, the “Nano” feeder has gone from concept to working prototype in record time. Accurate feed rates below 5 grams per hour are now achievable.

Micro dosing presents numerous challenges which are simply not present on larger machines. The miniaturisation of the Nano Feeder’s components demands new techniques of manufacture. Careful design offers easy dismantling for cleaning.

From the initial machine concept, Trantec utilised 3D modelling and high-resolution 3D printing to produce concept components. The 3D printed parts were assembled into a working prototype which allowed actual material trials on feed rates and accuracy.

The Nano Feeder comprises a conditioning chamber within the feeder body, complete with rotating agitator and variable speed rotating Auger. The agitator manipulates the product to a uniform density and breaks any bridges, product is then administered into the auger screw, ensuring accurate metering at a constant volume of 1% to 2% typically.