A bulk bag unloading system is a piece of equipment used to optimize bulk material handling. With uses across various industries, bulk bag unloaders can be used to streamline mining and quarrying processes. In today’s market there are a variety of customizable options available with each being designed for specific industry needs. Understanding your requirements for the material being handled, the bag size and handling requirements, and the mobility needed will help you choose the most effective bulk bag unloading system for your site’s operations.
For expert advice on material handling equipment, reach out to us on (913) 416-3635 today.
What to Consider When Choosing an Effective Bulk Bag Unloading System
Material Requirements
The first thing you should consider is the type of material that you are handling and whether it requires any special containment to prevent harm to operators or the environment. If containment is required, seals between the bag and the discharge are necessary to prevent dust escaping.
When considering material, it is also important to understand how the material flows. If the material has poor flowability then aids may be needed. Depending on the material, you may choose paddles, agitators, or vibrators to increase the flow rate and prevent blockages.
If your material is combustible, or the system will be operated in an explosive environment, the unloader will need features that protect equipment and operators. These could be explosion proof motors, static grounding, and monitoring systems.
Bag Specifications
A key factor for choosing the right bulk bag unloading system is to know all the specifications of the bags being handled. The first spec to know is the bag dimensions. The typical range is from 35 inches square to 41 inches square with anything outside requiring a larger frame and support dish.
The construction of the bag is also necessary to consider for proper operation. If the bag features an outlet spout, you should know the spout diameter and length to ensure the correct operation of necessary features. If you have flat-bottom bags, you will require a purpose-built knife to cut the base of the bag as it is lowered into the discharger. Conical bottom bags can usually be used with the standard discharger as long as the ties securing them can be safely released.
The last bag feature to consider is the style of lifting loops featured. The two main types are lay flat loops and cross corner loops. You will need to confirm compatibility with the bag lifting frames to ensure a safe, secure fit and effective operation.
Bulk Bag Handling Requirements
When choosing the most effective bulk bag unloading system for your operations you will need to identify your preferred method of bulk bag handling. There are several factors to consider, including the method of loading the bags into the unloader and the weight of filled bags.
By determining the loading method, you will be able to identify the discharger frame type required. By assessing the filled bag weight, you can find out if the frame can safely handle the maximum weight.
Handling heavy bags can pose a risk to operators on site. Choosing a bulk bag unloader that is designed to minimize manual handling will be key to maximizing your site safety and efficient operation.
Mobility Capabilities
When deploying unloaders on site they will often need to be moved around. Considering the mobility of your bulk bag unloader is crucial. Mobility comes down to the unloader being designed to be transported either via wheels, or a folding mechanism.
Smaller unloaders that need to be moved regularly can come with built in wheels that allow them to be towed and moved around the site for ease of use. Other small units may be skid mounted or have forklift tine slots to be lifted and easily set up.
If you need a larger unloader they can be designed to be folded down and locked in place while being transported on the back of a truck. Identifying how you will transport your unloader will help you choose the right one for your site.
America’s Leading Material Handling Equipment Manufacturers
If you need a bulk bag unloader for your mining or quarry site, contact CMQ Engineering USA. We are leading mining equipment manufacturers, and can help you identify exactly what you will need out of a bulk bag unloader to make your sites more efficient. Reach out to the team on (913) 416-3635 and our bulk bag unloading system experts will help you get the right piece of equipment.