The Problem
Lafarge's Joppa, Illinois cement plant had experienced severe flow and operational problems with their flat-bottom design gypsum bin. These problems significantly impacted productivity, created housekeeping and safety issues, and required the limited available manpower to spend significant time tending to these problems. Handling moist synthetic gypsum only exacerbated the flow problems.
Jenike & Johanson's Solution
Jenike & Johanson engineers recommended the design of a transition hopper, lined with stainless steel sheet, and the design of the interface between the hopper and belt feeder. A properly designed interface was needed to ensure uniform withdrawal of material over the entire length of the hopper outlet.
The Result
Lafarge implemented the mass flow technology on one of their gypsum storage bins. As a result of the modifications, Lafarge has been able to operate this bin reliably while handling both natural and highly cohesive synthetic gypsum.
Since the modified bin has been in operation, substantial time savings and improved cement quality has been achieved. According to Lafarge engineers, the payback period for this project was less than one year.
