Archive October 2025

The Picoline from Hosokawa Alpine has been setting standards in research and development for several years. It is now even more flexible, even more versatile, even safer The Picoline from Hosokawa Alpine has been setting standards in research and development for several years. The Augsburg-based machine and plant manufacturer has already sold more than 100 units of the modular system for processing very small quantities of powder. Now the Picoline has been updated - with numerous advantages for users. New: Separation of process platform and control system The Picoline is a solution for fine grinding, classifying or mixing powders in laboratories. Whether grinding processes from coarse to pre-grinding to ultra-fine grinding, the operation of a small batch mixer, a mechanofusion process, mechanochemistry or pure classifying tasks - this master of flexibility is truly versatile. The small system consists of a process platform, a platform controller, numerous function modules and accessories. The new feature is the separation of the control and work unit. By separating the control and work units, both parts can be positioned independently…

UWT Sensors Monitor IBCs from the Outside Safe storage and reliable monitoring of caustic soda in a dairy application UWT has introduced a smart, non-contact level measurement solution for aggressive media stored in Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs). This system uses external sensors, eliminating direct contact with corrosive agents like caustic soda for safer, flexible, and more sustainable monitoring in plants. Safe and Flexible Monitoring of Aggressive Media Smaller dairies often use IBC containers for aggressive disinfectants like caustic soda (NaOH) instead of large stationary tanks. This practical approach allows the medium to be diluted and fed into cleaning-in-place (CIP/SIP) systems. UWT’s solution provides non-contact monitoring from outside the tank, ensuring a safer and more flexible operation. Non-Contact Continuous Level Measurement The continuous level measurement is handled by the NivoRadar® NR 7100. This free-radiating 80 GHz FMCW radar sensor is mounted vertically above the…

Komatsu Europe is proud to announce that its cost-efficient Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance system is now fully compatible with the industry-leading tilt rotators brands, including Engcon, Steelwrist, Rototilt, and OilQuick. Komatsu’s Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance provides real-time 2D and 3D guidance to enhance earthmoving precision, reduce rework, and optimize workflows. The system can be retrofitted on excavators ranging from 13 to 120 tons, including both Komatsu and non-Komatsu equipment. As an IoT solution within the Smart Construction suite, it collects as-built data, which is visualized in a 3D digital twin within the Smart Construction Dashboard. This provides actionable insights into project progress. Additionally, it includes a free Remote license for the lifetime of the system, allowing seamless remote file transfers and troubleshooting. Finally, payload information is automatically reported to Smart Construction Fleet, improving operational tracking and machine productivity. “This advancement empowers operators to move materials with even greater speed and accuracy,” says Bart Vingerhoets, Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction. “With over…

The moisture content of grain is crucial for the milling process. This article describes how moisture content can be controlled to achieve benefits in terms of quality, environmental sustainability and profitability of the final product. Introduction Grain is a natural product, so the moisture in the bulk material varies due to several factors, including different growing conditions, weather conditions during harvest, the threshing operation, and post-harvest storage conditions. After harvest, industrially processed grain is often handled in a mill where it is flaked, rolled or ground into flour. Moisture levels are a critical factor throughout the mill because they affect machinery performance, material plasticity or malleability, and final product quality. Also, achieving the correct moisture content of the final product is important to prevent premature spoilage and a short shelf life. By measuring and controlling the water content of the material at each step of the milling process, it is possible to improve efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and save money. Consistent moisture control also enables a miller to achieve higher yields of better quality with less waste. The main process measurement…

UWT continues to grow: In mid-September, we were delighted to celebrate the opening of our new subsidiary UWT Polska. With Managing Director Tadeusz Karmaza and his experienced team, we share many years of successful collaboration. The step towards establishing a subsidiary in Poland was the logical consequence of the long-standing and successful cooperation with the team that now forms UWT Polska. With their passion and expertise, we can now support our customers even more directly on site – with competent consulting, reliable service, and our proven portfolio of sensor technology for level measurement and monitoring. With UWT Polska, we are opening a new chapter in our corporate history, further strengthening our proximity to customers in Poland. A special highlight was the participation of Rödl & Partner Poland at the opening ceremony. They not only supported us during the establishment process but will also continue to stand by our side as a reliable partner in various areas in the future. This support once again underlines how important strong partnerships are for sustainable success.

In the case of screw conveyors, where continuous movement and friction play a central role, selecting a standardized design without considering the product’s behavior can lead to blockages, wear, and inconsistent flow. Before choosing a screw conveyor for any industrial application, there is one critical phase that must not be overlooked: the detailed analysis of the material to be handled. This step, often underestimated, is essential to ensure the equipment’s efficiency, durability, and operational safety. Without this analysis, even the best screw conveyor design can fall short, leading to frequent breakdowns and high maintenance costs. Understanding the product The cornerstone of custom conveying systems. Each bulk solid presents specific challenges due to its physical and chemical properties. In the case of screw conveyors, where continuous movement and friction play a central role, selecting a standardized design without considering the product’s behavior can lead to blockages, wear, and inconsistent flow. To prevent these issues, the process must begin with a technical characterization of the material. Parameters as listed below are crucial to assess. These factors…