With the new “FKM Containment,” Gebrüder Lödige Maschinenbau is expanding its portfolio with a mixer specifically developed for high-containment applications. The system is designed for use up to OEB Level 5 and is particularly suited for applications in the pharmaceutical, chemical, and food industries. The goal is to reliably protect employees from potentially hazardous dusts and aerosols while ensuring high product quality. In modern production environments, mixing often generates dust, aerosols, or other critical substances that place high demands on containment concepts. This is precisely where the new “FKM Containment” comes into play. The machine is based on Lödige’s established plow-blade mixer and has been specifically enhanced with additional containment features.
Containment system for dust-free product feeding and discharge
Split butterfly valves from renowned manufacturers are used for dust-free product feeding and discharge. Alternatively, continuous film or transfer bag systems can be integrated. This is designed to enable safe material transfer up to OEB Level 5. The concept is complemented by flexible isolators with glove ports on the inspection hatches. These allow for interventions, visual inspections, or minor adjustments inside the machine without interrupting containment.
Sealing and Filter Systems for Safe High-Containment Applications
The dynamically loaded seals have been specially adapted for high-stress areas such as the mixing unit, knife heads, or discharge. The goal is to provide lasting protection against potential leaks even under demanding operating conditions. Machine venting is performed via a two-stage filter system with pneumatic cleaning of the first filter stage and a HEPA filter as the second safety stage.
Sampling and cleaning without interruption
A specially developed sampler enables the collection of representative samples during the ongoing mixing process without having to open the system. Additionally, a partially or fully automated WIP or CIP system supports the reproducible cleaning of the machine. This allows cleaning processes to be automated and manual intervention to be minimized without compromising the system.
