The consumer goods industry continues to face many difficult tasks: supplying goods to new markets quickly and cost-effectively in a highly competitive environment, converting to more efficient packaging techniques to accommodate increased production, convincing consumers of product superiority, and finding new ways to transform ordinary goods into elaborate but convenient products.

While addressing many of these issues, companies are faced with numerous solids handling difficulties. Basic flow problems such as arching (bridging) and ratholing can lead to costly consequences such as production stoppages. Segregation [220K QuickTime video] is also common when dealing with customized mixes or products with varying particle sizes. As an example, segregation of a cathode mix can result in batteries with reduced power capacity. Off-spec batteries are often recycled to reduce production losses; however, recycling still reduces the efficiency of the process.

Even if you haven't encountered these problems yet, it is likely that you eventually will, considering today's tough demands of increased production rates, tight quality control, and minimization of product loss. Flow problems during manufacture often result in off-spec goods and dissatisfied customers which will translate into lower sales and poor company image. If you are currently experiencing solids handling difficulties, Jenike & Johanson can help you eliminate them. If you are developing a new consumer product, we can utilize our industry-leading technology to help you avoid production problems. Contact Jenike & Johanson to discuss how your handling system can work to improve your bottom line.

• Ratholing with toothpaste minor ingredient
• Detergent buildup in bins and screw feeders
• Detergent segregation in packaging operation
• Blending study to intimately mix grout products
• Segregation of cathode mix during production of batteries
• Arching of soap noodles in a surge bin feeding a plodder
• Segregation of cat litter during packaging

Client confidentiality prevents us from discussing most of our projects. The following case studies were written with the consent of our clients.

Some of the consumer goods handling equipment we have designed and/or supplied:

• Silo, surge and use bins, with mass flow screw feeders for blended resin for vinyl flooring
• Mass flow retrofit for laundry detergent powder
• Segregation reducing inlet distributor for laundry detergent powder
• Discharge station for battery cathode mix
• Hold bins and portable containers for battery mix
• Water cooled screw feeder for moist and sticky soap flakes
• Segregation reducing BINSERT® retrofits for cat litter
• Stainless steel mass flow bins for printer toner
• Tumble blender and fill chute distributor for material used to produce countertops
• Tumble blender for dental molding compound
• Static blender for granular chlorine
• Electropolished hopper and stainless steel screw feeder for starch

Some of the consumer goods we have handled:

A partial listing of the consumer goods companies with which we have worked: