A consistent material flow is vital for bulk handling processes, which is why E-Plas provides a versatile silo solution.
At some sites, silos operate around the clock, dispensing crucial materials in the production process. Depending on the design of the silo and the material in question, this can create a constant source of friction that slowly eats away at the structure.
Given enough time, blockages begin to occur, slamming the handbrake on the entire production line.
E-Plas national operations manager Rupin Joshi said moisture in the material stream can also create hang-up points, especially if the system lacks the appropriate lining.
“For bigger plants especially, you need that consistent supply of material coming out of the silo,” he told ABHR. “That’s why having chutes, hoppers, and silos with the right liners is so important.”
E-Plas has supplied the bulk handling industry with specialised liners for more than 40 years. One of the oldest and most successful lining materials it provides is its TIVAR range of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) product liners.
TIVAR polymers are produced using an advanced compression moulding technology and ram extrusion. They are designed to provide specific solutions to tough problems in some of the most demanding applications.
“TIVAR 88 is one of the oldest and one of the most successful products that are available on the market,” Joshi said.
“Consistency has been the key to its success. Anyone who has been in the industry for the past 20 to 30 years is likely aware of it. It has stood the test of time, and the bulk handling industry knows it works.”
TIVAR 88 was developed specifically for the bulk handling industry, undergoing rigorous laboratory and field testing to ensure it reduces arching, ratholing and erratic material flow.
The plastic has a high-abrasion, corrosion, and impact resistance, with no moisture absorption. It retains its properties at temperatures of -200°C to 80 °C and is resistant to aggressive chemicals.
In silos, TIVAR 88 offers excellent wear resistance, reducing the need for maintenance. However, in situations where consistent flow is more important than minimising wear, the company also offers TIVAR 88-2.
TIVAR 88-2 is a weldable UHMW-PE lining that uses rapid release technology to eliminate arching, ratholing and flow problems. It works best in situations where sticky bulk materials are being conveyed, such as cement, coal, iron ore, fly ash, or clay. These materials are notorious for causing blockages in chutes. TIVAR 88-2’s low co-efficient of friction and slippery non-stick surface mean bulk materials flow smoothly and discharge without hang-up.
Joshi said the TIVAR range has been used across a wide range of industries, including mining, food, bricks, and glass manufacturing.
“The best time to install the lining is when a silo or chute is being built,” he said. “Once the client gives us a basic understanding of the product they are going to convey and a detailed design drawing, we can get in contact with Mitsubishi Chemicals.”
“The Mitsubishi Chemicals team can help determine the ideal geometry for an application, provide advice on grade and thickness, and supply samples for testing.
“If the silo has already been designed, it can be difficult to get access to where the liner needs to be installed. That’s why Mitsubishi Chemicals has developed a drop-in liner that can be folded like a cone, which then locks into place.”
Throughout the process, E-Plas handles the fabrications, machining, provides bolts for installation and has a team at the ready to assist with any issues.
E-Plas’ support teams of account managers are available to visit client sites to find out more about the application, learn about the potential issues the client is facing, and find the right product to help solve them. In addition, the company can also offer remote support.
Joshi said E-Plas is eager to continue offering new products that help reduce wear and improve flow.
“At the moment, we’ve started offering larger sheets of lining, going from three-metre-long sheets to six, which caters to a market that wants a quicker install time and less seams,” he said.
“The TIVAR range also covers FDA [Food and Drug Administration] approved products and higher-pressure velocity products that can assist customers dealing with water restrictions.
“We know the products work due to how much repeat business we get. Someone will approach us after three or four years, eager to purchase more TIVAR liners. We’re now working on improving our turnaround times for our product offering to make sure we can continue supporting our loyal customers.”