Smart Molding International 3-2022

11 newsfeed www.smart-molding.com Pelletron is responsible for de- signing and supplying the pneu- matic transfer systems from pellet- izing to storage and packaging. The pneumatic conveying method ap- plied is Pelletron's positive pressure Strandphase® technology, the most gentle and efficient system for PLA pellet handling. However, even the most gentle conveying process cre- ates some fine dust, so NatureWorks will utilize Pelletron's patented DeDuster® equipment in critical lo- cations of their process to keep the pellets clean, with fine dust content less than 50 parts per million. In addition to standard equip- ment drawings, the design scope for Pelletron includes detailed process and instrumentation diagrams ("P&IDs") and 3D modeling of the pipe routing throughout the NatureWorks plant. All critical components such as ro- tary valves and diverter valves are equipped with instrumentation like speed switches, pressure transmit- ters, and level and position switches for constant feedback to the control system resulting in efficient opera- tion and minimal downtime. The s e l ec ted ro ta r y va l ve s , Pelletron's GRM medium pressure model, have patented anti-shear fea- tures built into the housing to mini- mize pellet cutting. The valves also feature expanded rotor tips to reduce leakage through the valves, increas- ing the system's efficiency. The diverter valves for the Thai- land plant are Pelletron's PDV model, equipped with positive, self-adjusting seals at each port. PDV valves are engineered for zero leakage and are suitable for handling powders and pellets. The valve's end stops are built into the housing instead of the actuator so the actuator can be re - placed without removing the valve from the conveying pipe, a significant time-saver for maintenance. Fines content is a consideration for buyers of PLA resin, so Pelletron applied their low profile, high-per- formance XP Series DeDuster® after pelletizing and again just before pack- aging. The DeDuster® systems will re- move fine dust in addition to coarse dust and streamers if present. The new, fully integrated plant lo- cated in the Nahkhon Sawan Biocom- plex in Thailand will produce 75,000 metric tons of polymer per year. It is the second Ingeo PLA manufactur- ing location in the world. Its first was built in Blair, Nebraska, in 2002 and expanded in 2013 to produce 150,000 metric tons per year. The expanded global production of Ingeo biopolymers will support growth in markets that demand sus- tainable, low carbon materials with high-performance attributes, includ- ing 3D printing, hygiene products, compostable coffee capsules, tea bags, flexible packaging, and food utensils. Pelletron www.pelletroncorp.com NatureWorks selects Pelletron's pneumatic conveying and dust removal systems