Why is material knowledge fundamental to process and product design? To answer that question, let’s suppose that you operate a glass treatment facility that sorts, crushes, and then melts recycled glass into a new product. You notice there is a significant loss in crushed glass during the melting process. How do you resolve your material processing dilemma?
This processing issue, as well as countless other material problems, was solved with the help of FEECO’s extensive material and processing knowledge. In the example of the glass treatment facility, it was determined that the crushed glass was being swept up in the airflow during the melting process. Based on previous testing experience, FEECO recognized that pelletizing the crushed glass would minimize unnecessary product loss and maximize material utilization.
By relying on our material experience and a state of the art lab testing facility, FEECO is able to determine the best course of action for a material, making collected material knowledge an essential testing tool.
The Extent of FEECO’s Material Knowledge
FEECO has performed materials testing since the early 1950s, gaining an understanding of countless materials in a variety of industries. Surprisingly, businesses that would not otherwise appear to be related can actually have similar material problems. FEECO is able to blend this information from various industries to promote optimal material solutions across the board. Over time, this diverse range of experience has cultivated a knowledge base of thousands (yes, thousands!) of materials.
Building Material Knowledge through Lab Testing
The FEECO International testing and tolling facility is a unique division of FEECO. It includes a pilot plant, analytical laboratory, and tolling production plant equipped with a variety of agglomeration, thermal, and material handling equipment. Lab testing relies on the collaboration of material knowledge, testing experience, and process design in order to determine the best solution for each material.
A prime illustration of this lab testing collaboration is the glass treatment plant example mentioned earlier. When testing the glass pelletization process, FEECO encountered binding issues. Based on previous material knowledge and testing, it was determined that the particle size of the crushed glass should be smaller. FEECO’s comprehensive knowledge database was instrumental in identifying the process issue and creating a solution.
Applying Material Knowledge to Product Solutions
FEECO’s material knowledge is a significant advantage when testing and designing product solutions, helping customers make an informed processing decision even before lab testing occurs. FEECO’s material knowledge and testing experience lay the groundwork for future projects, setting a basic expectation of costs and product results that a customer can anticipate from their materials.
“Even with our vast experience, we still see new materials or new variations of materials,” states Chris Kozicki, FEECO Process Sales Engineer. For example, FEECO has successfully tested and designed limestone processing solutions for decades. Although it is a common mineral found globally, regional variances occur. Limestone mined in Iowa differs from limestone mined in Kansas, Wisconsin, and so forth. “We have the experience to recognize that variances will occur, but we also have the knowledge that gives us a head start when we are given new or varying material. Our material database allows us to address variations and subtle nuances in different materials, making it easier to create an optimal solution.”
FEECO has built a reputation of being a global leader in materials testing. For over 60 years, we have provided lab testing and processing solutions for a wide range of industries. With additional material knowledge being gained each day, you can be assured that FEECO can provide the material answers you need. To learn more about FEECO’s material knowledge and lab testing capabilities, contact us today.