BFM Global’s Innovative Solution for Food Manufacturing: The Venting Surge Hopper
BFM Global, a leader in flexible connector technology, has developed a new product to address the common problem of bridging in food manufacturing processes. The BFM Venting Surge Hopper is a uniquely-shaped hopper that combines the benefits of the company’s Seeflex 040E flexible and transparent material and the snap-fit system of BFM fittings. The hopper has built-in product and airflow separation, with an internal partition that allows powder to flow down one side and displaced air to flow up and out the other.
A major difference between the BFM Venting Surge Hopper and traditional steel surge hoppers is the transparency of the material. The Seeflex 040E urethane material allows users to see the product flowing or not flowing, providing immediate visibility on any blockages. Further, the material’s flexibility enables users to easily resolve any bridges using their hands or additional flow aids.
Working closely with rotary valve manufacturers such as Airlock India and Gericke RotaVal, BFM Global has created an alternative to steel surge hoppers that appeals to the company’s customers. The Venting Surge Hopper is compatible with the BFM fitting snap-fit system and can be easily removed and replaced, making it more accessible during cleaning processes.
Customers such as Ragu Thiagarajan, owner and founder of Airlock India, appreciate the continuous visibility and control offered by the new innovation. Steel surge hoppers require banging on the outside to free blockages, whereas the Venting Surge Hopper provides a transparent solution.
BFM Global’s technical lead, Matthew Bailey, anticipates a positive response. “We’ve combined the benefits of our transparent and flexible Seeflex 040E material with the BFM fitting snap-fit system into a uniquely-shaped hopper with built-in product and airflow separation,” he stated.
The BFM Venting Surge Hopper offers a unique solution addressing bridging issues in food manufacturing processes. With its flexibility, transparency, and snap-fit system, it promises to provide customers with enhanced visibility and control, unlike traditional steel surge hoppers.