Bulk bag discharger launched by Spiroflow
UK-based Spiroflow, a specialist in high containment bulk bag filling and discharge systems, has launched a range of bulk bag (FIBC) dischargers specifically for use in pharmaceutical applications.
UK-based Spiroflow, a specialist in high containment bulk bag filling and discharge systems, has launched a range of bulk bag (FIBC) dischargers specifically for use in pharmaceutical applications.
Bulk bags and their associated filling and discharge systems have made rapid advances in hygiene and containment, offering containment levels as good as 0.025µg/m3. Lined bulk bags avoid cross-contamination between batches and eliminate the need for and cost of cleaning/revalidation associated with traditional rigid bins.
However, improperly handled bulk bags can be the cause of dust and spillage during discharge and during the disposal of empty bags. The new range of pharmaceutical bulk bag dischargers from Spiroflow offers total control of bulk bags during discharge and their subsequent removal through the fitting, as standard, of a liner spout clamping system that provides total containment.
Interlocked, power operated pinch bars are provided to clamp the bulk bag neck so that the neck ties can be released safely. Dependent upon the potency of the active ingredient, releasing the neck ties; cutting open sealed liners; feeding them through the clamp ring and over the discharge spout all take place within a negative pressure enclosure connected to a HEPA filter either through an access door or through a sealed glove-box.
Once the liner is clamped to the outlet spigot (and, where fitted, the access door is locked shut) the pinch bars can be released to allow the product to discharge from the bulk bag into the hopper. The disconnection of the bulk bag neck takes place under partial vacuum and can be safely stowed within the body of the bulk bag before it is lifted off for folding or compaction.
The liner clamp has the option of pneumatic or manual operation. Where pneumatic operation is provided, for safety reasons the operator has to remove his hands from the gloves and continuously press two operating buttons, one on either side of the cabinet, or close the interlocked dust tight clamp housing access door.