Just Trays Ltd of Farnley, Leeds (JT) purchased a new casting machine that will enable them to double output of their low profile shower trays. Their previous casting machine included an integral bulk bag unloading hopper. The bag was loaded into place and supported during discharge by an overhead hoist. When difficulty was experienced in discharging calcium carbonate from compacted or otherwise problematic bags, the hoist had to be used to raise and lower the bag to promote flow.

JT?s new casting machine differs in that it requires calcium carbonate beads and, additionally, recycled glass beads, to be delivered to 2 separate buffer hoppers at the top of the machine. These additives are then metered, at differing rates, into the mixing chamber where they are mixed with resins according to the specification of the shower trays to be cast.

Spiroflow Solutions

We have supplied 2 of our Model T5, Low-Headroom Bulk Bag Dischargers with integral Flexible Screw Conveyors. Darren Rhodes, JT's Operations Director, confirms, “My criteria were: UK manufacture, a competitive price, a supplier with a reputation for quality products and a quick delivery. In the end, it was Spiroflow that met them all”.

The Bulk Bag Dischargers supplied to JT are Model T5 low-headroom Dischargers. With this model the top frame is removed to floor level, a full bulk bag installed and then the frame, complete with bag, is re-sited. Installing the bag this way considerably reduces the headroom required meaning that 'Spiroflow' Bulk Bag Dischargers can often be used in places where others cannot. The Bulk Bag Discharger for the calcium carbonate beads was furnished with bag massagers to promote the flow of compacted bags. Darren Rhodes notes, “This is much more efficient, cleaner and safer than having to bump the bag up and down on a hoist”.