Bowl Lift

Description

The CDM Bowl Lift is a sanitary post lift engineered to lift and invert fluid bed bowls safely for controlled discharge into downstream equipment. It provides a clean, efficient solution for powder transfer while minimizing dust and contamination in the workspace. The custom-designed cradle securely captures the bowl, allowing smooth, repeatable positioning during discharge. The Allen-Bradley control system delivers precise motion and consistent performance, giving operators full command of lift and inversion functions. Designed to meet cGMP standards, the Bowl Lift ensures reliable operation and long-term durability in pharmaceutical cleanroom environments.

Discharge Cone / Funnel

The discharge cone is fabricated from 316 stainless steel for durability and cleanability. As a result, the surface resists corrosion and remains easy to sanitize. The discharge end includes a sanitary ferrule for quick connections. Product contact surfaces are polished to a 20RA µin or better finish unless otherwise specified. In addition, all welds are passivated, ground smooth, and flush to eliminate residue traps. Finally, exterior surfaces are polished to a uniform brushed finish and chemically cleaned to achieve a consistent, professional appearance.

Discharge Valve

A pneumatically actuated sanitary butterfly valve controls product discharge. The valve body is made from 316 stainless steel and sealed with FDA-accepted silicone gaskets. Consequently, the system provides contamination-free operation and dependable sealing performance. Moreover, this design allows for repeatable operation and minimal maintenance.

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. In addition, the motors, gearboxes, and electrical enclosures remain fully enclosed within the column. Therefore, the lift maintains a clean exterior and minimizes exposure to the production environment. As a result, operators benefit from both easy maintenance and long-term reliability.

Slue / Rotation

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. Consequently, operators can easily set custom slue angles to match their process layout. Moreover, the rotation settings can be adjusted in the field to meet specific production needs.

Ball Screw Driven Lift

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. Therefore, the system achieves smooth, accurate lifting under full load. Furthermore, this configuration represents one of the safest and most efficient lifting technologies available. The lift motor sits at the base of the column for easy access, while height and travel parameters can be quickly field-programmed.

Every CDM 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. Moreover, this design simplifies washdown and improves overall cleanliness in the production area.

Controls

The control system uses an Allen-Bradley PLC platform for dependable, repeatable performance. Operator and Power Panels are enclosed in NEMA 4X stainless housings suitable for washdown and cleanroom use. Additionally, the system can include either push-button or touchscreen interfaces depending on user preference and process needs. Moreover, data logging, safety interlocks, and system feedback ensure precise control throughout the lift’s operation. In conclusion, this control package provides exceptional flexibility and reliability for regulated environments.