Post Blender
| Category: Blenders |
| Capacity: Up to 75 Cu-ft (blending capacity) |
| Vessels: V-Shell, Offset Cone, Double Cone or Bins |
| Slue/Rotation: Up to 270° (by request) |
| Blend RPM: Programmable |
| Controls: Allen-Bradley |
Description
The Post Blender is a cGMP compliant tumble blender designed for precise, repeatable mixing of powders and granules using an elevated post mounted design. Its robust lifting column and blend drive deliver smooth, controlled blending while allowing vessels to be positioned at ergonomic working heights. Compatible with a full range of vessels including V Shells, Double Cones, Offset Cones, and Bins, the system ensures uniform, efficient mixing without product degradation. Engineered for cleanability, operator safety, and seamless integration into upstream and downstream processes, the Post Blender provides a reliable, sanitary solution for modern powder handling.
Belt-Driven Rotation
The vessel is driven by a TEFC electric gearmotor with an integrated fail-safe brake through a precision belt drive. This configuration provides controlled, reliable rotation while reducing stress on the drive components. The vessel is securely bolted to or captured by the blend flange, and integrated encoders deliver continuous position feedback for accurate alignment throughout operation.
Compact Blend Head
The blend head is engineered for maximum compactness, optimizing usable space within the production area. All motors, gearboxes, and junction boxes are fully enclosed within the blend head, maintaining a clean exterior and minimizing exposure to the production environment.
Blend Nest
The stainless steel blend nest securely holds the blend head during operation, enhancing both consistency and operator safety. Integrated shot pins automatically deploy as the blend head moves into position, ensuring precise alignment and reliable engagement throughout the blending process.
cGMP Design
The blender is engineered and assembled to the highest level of cGMP compliance. All surfaces and components are designed for ease of cleaning, with smooth transitions and minimal crevices to prevent product accumulation. This thoughtful design supports hygienic operation, simplifies washdown, and helps maintain a safe, contamination-free production environment.
Lifting Column
The column is built from 304 stainless steel and polished to a uniform brushed finish. All external welds are ground smooth to match the parent material. All motors, gearboxes, and electrical enclosures remain fully enclosed within the footprint of the column. The lift maintains a clean exterior and minimizes exposure to the production environment.
Ball-Screw Driven
A precision ball screw drive couples directly to an electric gearmotor with a fail-safe brake. The screw and nut feature matching helical grooves where lubricated ball bearings circulate continuously for efficient motion. The system achieves smooth, accurate lifting under full load. The Ball-Screw drive configuration represents one of the safest and most efficient lifting technologies available.
Additionally, every lift includes a Safety Ball Nut Clutch. This direct-engagement clutch is mounted to the lift drive ball nut and releases automatically if the carriage lowers onto an obstruction. As a result, the clutch prevents component damage and enhances operator safety. Reversing direction automatically reengages the drive for immediate recovery.
cGMP Slot Cover
The front slot of the column features CDM’s patent-pending magnetic “Positive Seal Closure.” This two-part magnetic strip forms a watertight seal that moves with the carriage. In this way, the seal continuously closes behind it as the lift travels, reducing the chance of contamination. This design simplifies washdown and improves overall cleanliness in the production area.
Optional – Rotation (Slue)
A TEFC electric gearmotor powers the column rotation, located conveniently at the rear base beneath a stainless steel cover. The design allows over 270° of smooth, programmable rotation. Maintenance or Site Administrators can easily set custom slue angles to match their process layout.
Optional – Drum Loading Module
The drum loading module is designed to safely handle drums for fully contained loading of the blender. Two stainless steel pneumatic cylinders raise and lock the drum into position over a remotely actuated butterfly valve. The blender then rotates 180° while the valve opens, allowing controlled material discharge into the vessel. Once the drum is empty, the blender automatically returns to the home position. The module is fully removable to support easy cleaning, changeover, and maintenance.
Optional – Intensifier Bar
An optional high-speed intensifier bar can be integrated into the blender to provide additional agitation and improve blend uniformity. The I-Bar is fabricated from 316 stainless steel and polished to match the vessel interior. The I-Bar incorporates a sealed bearing cartridge with FDA-compliant, mineral-impregnated PTFE seals. The bearing housing is mounted externally to the vessel, with a low-profile hub inside the vessel to minimize product contact and simplify cleaning. Dedicated tooling is provided for installation and maintenance.
Optional – Manway Interlock
The manway is interlocked with blender motion using a trapped interlock key system. The key must be inserted and secured before rotation is permitted, ensuring the manway is properly closed and preventing product loss during operation.
Optional – RFID Vessel Identification
The system includes an RFID tag reader to read tags on each vessel, with new RFID tags provided for all existing bins. Once a vessel tag is read, the control system automatically pre-fills the vessel RPM, ensuring accurate and repeatable operation. If applicable, the system will also populate a drop-down menu of compatible I-Bars for that bin, and after selection, pre-fill the I-Bar RPM field with the correct speed for the chosen vessel and I-Bar combination.
Operator Controls
Controls all equipment movements with automated sequencing. At minimum, the following user interfaces will be provided: Power On/Off, Emergency Stops, Reset, Start/Stop Blend, Manual Set Blend Time, Manual Set Blend RPM, Jog Forward/Reverse.
Operator Panel Enclosure & Mounting
NEMA 4X Stainless Steel Enclosure. (*Other enclosure options available upon request.)
Operator Interface
10.4” Allen Bradley PanelView Plus 7 Touch Screen. (*Other interface options available upon request.)
Power Panel
High and low voltage panels. The panels house the PLC, VFDs, fuses, relays and power disconnect.
Power Panel Enclosure & Mounting
NEMA 4X Stainless Steel Enclosure. (*Enclosure type and location can vary based on room classification and customer requirements.)
Control Hardware
CompactLogix 5380 PLC and Allen Bradley PowerFlex 525 VFD(s). (*Other PLC and VFD options available upon request.)
Optional – UL 508A Certified Panel
Built and certified to UL 508A standards for compliance with industrial control standards.
Optional – Batch Recording/Recipes
Save and store recipes for ease of set up and constant blends. Includes Batch Records via printer, ethernet or .csv file.
Optional – 21 CFR Part 11 Compliancy
The PLC system furnished 21CFR Part 11 compliant – data logging, archiving & auditing data stored onto a locally stored file for Ethernet download. Tiered Security based on pre-determined user groups and privileges.
Stack Light with Audible Alarm
A stack light with an integrated audible alarm can be added to provide clear visual and sound-based status indication of lift operation, fault conditions, or safety interlocks. This enhances operator awareness and improves overall system visibility within the processing area.
Safety Light Curtain
A safety light curtain can be installed to create a non-contact protective barrier that prevents access to hazardous areas. If the beam field is interrupted during operation, the system will automatically stop motion to protect the operator from moving equipment.
Safety Laser Scanner
A floor-mounted safety laser scanner can be incorporated to provide three programmable safety zones, enabling warnings, controlled slow-down, or a full system emergency stop based on intrusion level. Multiple scanners can also be linked together to create a wider, continuous protective field around the lift.
Tailored to Your Application
Our equipment is engineered to fit your unique process needs, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and compliance. Whether you require specialized materials, customized sizes, or precise automation features, each system is designed to integrate seamlessly with your workflow. Contact our technical engineers today!
