March 1, 2016
Dinnissen marks 25 years of vacuum coating technology
Dinnissen Process Technology in Sevenum, the Netherlands marks the 25th anniversary of its vacuum coating technology this year.
In 1991 Dinnissen developed this innovative technology in secret, in cooperation with the Norwegian fish feed producer Skretting. The challenge was to dramatically increase the fat content in the core of a feed pellet.
The invention of the vacuum coater was an evolution of the development of the Pegasus® paddle mixer of Dinnissen. In this double-axle mixer the product is raised in a fluidised zone, giving a gentle, fast and energy-efficient mixing process. In experiments carried out in a special mixer under vacuum conditions, high concentrations of liquid were sprayed onto the feed pellets. Upon removal of the vacuum the liquid was drawn deeply into the coated pellets. In this way Dinnissen succeeded in gradually increasing the fat content of the pellets up to a maximum of 42%.
An additional advantage of this technology is that pellets are no longer greasy on the outside. This increases the flow out of the silo, prevents pollution and reduces contaminations on farms.
Dinnissen has since perfected the vacuum technology and made it suitable for many other applications worldwide. With present-day systems different fluids from low to high doses can accurately be sprayed on the product. It is also possible to apply multiple layers onto granules and extruded products.
For more information on Dinnissen or their vacuum coaters you can visit them at Victam Asia in Bangkok (stand B115), the Powtech in Nuremberg (stand 4-371) and Powder & Bulk Solids Show in Rosemont, IL (#3504). More information is also available at www.dinnissen.nl