Flexicon premiers the Block-Buster

Flexicon has unveiled the new Block-Buster flexible intermediate bulk container (FIBC) conditioner. The system, incorporating two hydraulic rams and specially contoured end plates, has been designed to press an FIBC's opposing sides to loosen material that has solidified during storage or transit and thus facilitate smooth bottom discharge. "The conditioner is recommended for bulk bags containing hygroscopic chemicals, certain spice blends, heat-sensitive products and other materials prone to solidifying to the point at which pneumatically actuated flow promotion accessories integral to bulk bag dischargers are inefficient or completely ineffective," the company says.

The Block-Buster features a cantilevered I-beam with motorised hoist and trolley that allows the loading and unloading of an FIBC without the need for a forklift. The big bag can also be raised and lowered using the hoist and rotated manually for conditioning at any height on all sides. Meanwhile, the system controller and hydraulic pump can be mounted on the exterior of the safety cage or remotely. The conditioner is fully enclosed on all four sides for operator safety and includes full-height doors that are interlocked to disallow operation of the system when the doors are open.

An optional hydraulically actuated, variable-height turntable allows automated in-frame big bag rotation and conditioning at varying heights. The number and pressure of hydraulic ram actuations, the height of the turntable, and the number of 90-degree rotations are all user-programmable. The Block-Buster is offered as a stand-alone unit or can be integrated with the company's Bulk-Out big bag discharging systems.

www.flexicon.com