Lump Breaker for Deagglomerating Moisture-Absorbed Powders
A lump breaker, also known as a deagglomerator or conditioner, is a vital piece of equipment designed specifically to break down agglomerates and soft lumps that form in powders due to moisture absorption, static, or compaction. For hygroscopic powders that readily absorb moisture from the atmosphere, leading to caking and handling difficulties, this machine is indispensable for restoring material flowability and ensuring consistent product quality.
The operational principle of a typical screen-type lump breaker is both efficient and relatively gentle. It consists of a rotating shaft equipped with blades or pins that is housed within a chamber containing a fixed screen or mesh. The powder containing lumps is fed into the machine. As the rotor turns, the blades force the material against the screen, applying a combination of impact and shear forces that are sufficient to break apart the lumps but gentle enough to avoid excessive reduction of the primary particles or generating heat. The broken material then passes through the screen openings, ensuring that only properly sized, free-flowing powder is discharged.
Key advantages of using a lump breaker include its compact design, low energy consumption, and ease of cleaning and maintenance. The screen size can be selected based on the desired final particle size distribution. Constructed often from stainless steel, it meets hygiene standards for industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. By effectively deagglomerating moisture-affected powders, the lump breaker prevents downstream blockages, ensures accurate dosing, and guarantees uniformity in subsequent processes like mixing, packaging, or tableting.
In summary, the lump breaker is a crucial solution for maintaining operational efficiency and product integrity when handling powders prone to caking, effectively transforming problematic lumps back into a uniform, flowable powder.