Thomas G. Coon to retire as vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture

Thomas G. Coon, vice president and dean of Oklahoma State University's Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, is retiring on July 10 after nine years of dedicated service and visionary leadership to the university.

'We are blessed that Dr. Coon has spent the last nine years in positions of leadership with Oklahoma State University,' says Kayse Shrum, OSU president. 'He has been an influential force in an area where OSU is a recognized leader across the nation. His career of making a difference in the lives of young adults and shaping the agricultural landscape spans 40 years.'

Joining OSU in July 2014, Mr Coon provides leadership for the Ferguson College of Agriculture and the university's two state agencies: OSU Extension and OSU Ag Research.

He works extensively with public and private agencies, community leaders, and state and local elected officials. He serves as chief OSU administrator for more than 200 faculty, 300 Extension staff, and 300 support and administration staff located on-campus and across the state.

Mr Coon has been the driving force behind New Frontiers, a capital campaign to raise funds for a $115 million new state-of-the-art teaching, research and Extension facility for OSU Agriculture. New Frontiers is recognised as one of the fastest capital campaigns at OSU and the university's first academic capital campaign of this magnitude to reach its fundraising goal before the building opens.

In addition, Mr Coon is recognised nationally as a leader in agriculture and natural resource management. He is actively involved in the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities, serving on multiple committees, including the Board of Directors and Academic Heads Section for the Board on Agriculture Assembly and the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy.

Mr Coon earned a Bachelor of Arts (summa cum laude) in biology from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and a Master of Science and doctorate in ecology from the University of California, Davis.

He began his career as an assistant professor of fisheries and wildlife at the University of Missouri. He went on to work as an assistant professor and associate professor of fisheries and wildlife at Michigan State University before becoming a full professor.

Mr Coon also served as the director of Michigan State University Extension before assuming his leadership role at OSU.

'I have been blessed to join the OSU Agriculture family and work to advance it, and I have been blessed to have colleagues as administrators, faculty, staff and students who work together to advance the work of this noble enterprise,' Mr Coon says. 'There is another leader out there somewhere who will be blessed to have that same experience, and I will do all I can to help recruit my successor.'

For more information about OSU Agriculture visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

SimpliiGood, Haifa Group co-pioneer sustainable closed-loop spirulina production partnership

International plant nutritionist, Haifa Group, Ltd., and food-tech innovator, SimpliiGood by AlgaeCore Technologies Ltd., have joined forces to optimise the SimpliiGood spirulina supply chain while promoting their net zero goals. This partnership delivers benefits to both companies' products and bottom lines in the short term. It also positions them to create a sustainable circular carbon economy within the next several years. 

SimpliiGood grows and markets fresh and frozen spirulina, cultivating this nutrient-rich microalgae under ideal controlled conditions. This start-up is culturing concentrated functional ingredients and producing a range of nutritious foods that are breaking new ground in the plant-based protein sector. Under development is the first smoked salmon alternative made nearly entirely from a single ingredient: whole fresh spirulina. 

The companies have signed a multi-faceted long-term collaboration agreement destined to transform the entire spirulina market. The alliance will enhance sustainability and reduce the environmental footprint of both partners. A cornerstone objective of this partnership is to optimise upstream spirulina operations – perfecting production input for enriched output.

"This important milestone demonstrates the maturity and potential of the entire sector, not just of our company," says Baruch Dach, SimpliiGood founder and CTO. "It will boost our supply chain efficiency, reliability and scalability, making our spirulina an even more affordable, resilient and trustworthy food source for the future of food."

Collaboration will focus on four key phases: 
1. To optimise spirulina growth media while minimising cost: Haifa Group will perfect its ready-to-use nutrient mixtures for commercial spirulina cultivation, leveraging distinct SimpliiGood know-how and experience. This collaboration will reduce raw material expenses, which will decrease spirulina costs. It will fortify the supply chain, ensuring raw material security for safe, reliable, consistent supply. 

'Standardisation and predictability will make our spirulina more uniform – while maintaining high protein and antioxidant composition,' comments Lior Shalev, co-founder and CEO of SimpliiGood. 'SimpliiGood will earn a strong competitive market advantage from these benefits within six months, and Haifa Group will expand its product portfolio to include these new products.' 

"Now more than ever, food products rely on secure, strong supply chains,' continues Mr Shalev. 'As a vertically integrated operation sourced by the Haifa Group partnership, we will be empowered with broad perspective and control across the entire value chain.' 

2. Develop new products that rely on quality input: Both companies will continue to expand their product R&D. 'We believe that this win-win farm-to-fork collaboration will meet the global needs in feeding microalga as a wide source of protein, and serve both companies well,' says Natan Feldman, Haifa Group VP Marketing, Business development & innovations. 'We made a strategic decision to enter the microalgae market and selected SimpliiGood following a meticulous search. We found their long-term vision fit hand-in-glove with ours; their commitment to the planet inspiring.'

Mr Shalev adds, 'Haifa Group brings extensive crop-nutrition optimisation talent to the table. The group's pioneering R&D subject matter expertise is ideal for our big picture plans.'

'We are very excited about how this strategy will set a new standard in functional ingredients and plant-source alternatives,' says Mr Dach. 'Our proprietary development will enable SimpliiGood to expand into game-changing mainstream plant-based foods. For example, we will be able to speed our introduction of the first protein-rich smoked salmon steak analog made predominantly from spirulina. This innovation has been gaining momentum and recently attracted the attention of the global food industry.' He adds, 'Our ability to produce fresh spirulina-based products in a market that focuses heavily on dried spirulina is a major differentiator for us and a huge leap forward for consumers seeking appealing plant-based proteins.' 

3. Converting upcycle waste to spirulina: Carbon dioxide is nature's best source for spirulina growth during photosynthesis, and Haifa Group produces CO2 during product manufacturing. Haifa Group and SimpliiGood will build side-by-side production plants in the Negev Desert to pass carbon dioxide from the Haifa Group plant to the SimpliiGood spirulina production facility. This process, which will transform CO2 pound-for-pound into spirulina, will both reduce waste and enable sustainable carbon fixation.

4. Establish a large-scale global circular economy: SimpliiGood will evaluate the Haifa Group waste stream to determine the additional components that can be introduced into microalgae production. The assessment will include heat, nutrients and compounds – such as nitrogen, which is a key building block of protein. 'Leveraging the full power of upcycled synergies,  the entire operation will do its part to achieve net zero. It will minimise the environmental footprint of both partners while maximising efficiency, cost effectiveness and quality over the long term,' Elimelech explains.

These plans are aligned well with the global market. According to Acumen Research and Consulting, the global spirulina market size accounted for $480 million in 2021 and is projected to achieve a market size of $1.166 billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 10.4 percent from 2022 to 2030. 

'The SimpliiGood-Haifa Group collaboration takes us within reach of our goal to be the world's largest net-zero spirulina cultivator and producer,' concludes Mr Shalev.

For more information about SimpliiGood visit the website, HERE.
Or for information about Haifa Group visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Feed regulators and industry from around the world discuss critical issues with IFIF and FAO at the 16th International Feed Regulators Meeting

The 16th annual International Feed Regulators Meeting (IFRM) organised by the International Feed Industry Federation (IFIF) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) brought together feed industry representatives and government officials from around the world to discuss critical issues facing the feed sector with IFIF and the FAO. 

At the meeting Ruud Tijssens, IFIF Chairman and Daniela Battaglia, FAO, welcomed IFRM delegates and reiterated their commitment to this longstanding partnership and agreed to continue to strengthen their work together to tackle the challenges facing the feed and food chains. Ms Battaglia reaffirmed the importance of "collaboration between the public and private sector to support the responsibilities of the animal production sector in a context of sustainable agriculture and food systems worldwide."

Mr Tijssens says, 'I am delighted that we can meet again face-to-face at this unique event and that participants from across the world and from key regulatory bodies joined us at the 16th IFRM. This meeting, yet again, proved to be an important opportunity for the global feed industry and feed regulators to discuss key issues for the feed and food chains, including important work on nutritional innovation strategies to improve animal health and welfare, an update of Codex Alimentarius work with relevance to feed, as well as a very timely workshop on emerging feed sources and technologies in a circular bio-economy context.'

Mr Tijssens adds 'This dialogue is an important example of the private sector collaborating with the FAO and regulators from around the world and we believe that only by working together can we continue to ensure feed and food security and safety, while meeting the global demands for food sustainably.'

'The success of this meeting is a proof that FAO's efforts to facilitate dialogue between the public and private sector are worthwhile and given the current challenges, collaboration among all parties at international and national level to ensure among others, human and animal welfare, and feed and food safety and security is more important than ever,' says Daniela Battaglia, Animal Production Officer, Animal Production and Health Division of the FAO. 

Ms Battaglia adds, 'feed operators can valuably contribute to make the animal production and food sectors more responsible and sustainable and to achieve other important goals such as the containment of antimicrobial resistance and public, animal and environmental health. The IFRM is an important opportunity to exchange ideas among stakeholders from around the world and to coordinate our efforts towards common goals.'

Other topics discussed at the 16th IFRM included a panel on the successful work of the International Cooperation for Convergence of Technical Requirements for the Assessment of Feed Ingredients (ICCF), which aims towards convergence of technical requirements specific to feed additive/ingredient authorisation across regions, as well as presentations on key feed issues in Thailand and Vietnam.  

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Cimbria’s financing solutions support growth for customers

Cimbria's strategic focus on financing solutions support development for customers and create a competitive edge. The collaboration with national Export Credit Agencies (ECAs) enables Cimbria to help customers realise their investment plans for both turnkey solutions and single equipment within industrial processing, handling, and storage, which are becoming more relevant in unsettled times.

Purchasing new equipment and solutions for processing, handling, and storage of grain and seed, as well as coffee, animal feed, foodstuffs and other bulk products is a big investment, and some companies and organisations may require assistance with funding.

With its constant focus on customer needs, Cimbria has developed a new, structured approach to financing solutions that's tailored to the customer's specific requirements. Cimbria Financing is a key service offer and an important part of the company's customer focused sales strategy, "With an ever-changing market situation, financing big investments can be extra challenging. Investments in projects and equipment to secure food supply are crucial, and the realisation of them depends on the possibility of finding suitable financing," explains Allan Olsen, Trade Finance Manager, Cimbria.

He continues, "Our financing solutions are tailored for the customer's specific business requirements and often offer lower costs and better conditions than what is locally available from banks and financing institutes. Our down-payment requirements are also attractive. Furthermore, an easy and fast decision process and generally low documentation requirements make up the customer's most important advantages.

Cimbria bases its financing solutions on a collaboration with national Export Credit Agencies (ECAs), whose main purpose is to secure and develop national jobs through funding of promising projects and solutions. As a part of AGCO Corporation, Cimbria also offers financing solutions through AGCO Finance.

"In general, we experience an increasing demand for financial support. In these unsettled times with high inflation and unstable economic development, customers must be able to achieve low-risk financing that enable investments in new equipment or even in complete plants to grow their business," explains Thomas Mohr, Sales Director, Cimbria.

One of the projects benefitting from Cimbria Financing includes UMEX, a leading port operator and logistics expert in the Romanian Port of Constanta, which is one of the most important and traffic-heavy transhipment hubs for the Greater Black Sea region. The project consists of two grain and fertiliser terminals. The grain terminal has 100,000 tons of storage capacity across eight separate silos and the fertiliser terminal is a multifunctional warehouse capable of handling and storing up to 66,000 tons of bulk fertilisers.

"We identified three main benefits in choosing financing from an ECA via Cimbria compared to other financing solutions. First, we were offered a longer availability and repayment period. Second, we were offered coverage from any commercial and political risks up to 95 percent of the loan. And third, the financing solution had reasonable premium costs," explains Cristian Taranu, General Manager at UMEX.

Currently, Cimbria has approximately 20 ongoing projects within financial support.

"Understanding how and when to contribute with relevant solutions to a customer's business challenge is crucial to Cimbria, and in some cases the combination of technical expertise and financial support is key," says Thomas Mohr.

For more information visit the Cimbria website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Bactocell authorised in EU as a technological additive for all animal species

Lallemand Animal Nutrition announces its unique lactic acid bacteria strain Pediococcus acidilactici CNCM I-4622 (BACTOCELL) has been authorised in the European Union as a technological feed additive in the functional group of acidity regulators and of hygiene condition enhancers. The authorisation is for use in all animal species (REGULATION (EU) 2023/53).

BACTOCELL was already recognised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for its safety and potential to reduce pH and limit growth of coliform bacteria in liquid feeds.

Authorisation covers the application of the lactic bacteria in mash compound feeds and/or solid feed materials used for the preparation of liquid feeds at a minimum inclusion level of 1x109 (colony-forming units) CFU/kg feed. This is the first lactic acid bacteria to receive such an authorisation related to the hygiene of liquid feed.

In Europe, liquid feed is particularly popular for swine in countries including Denmark and Sweden, where more than 60 percent of finishers — as well as the majority of sows — are fed liquid feed. Ensuring the sanitary quality of liquid feed and the feeding system itself is a key priority for producers.

David Saornil, Product Manager for Swine Application at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, comments, 'We are very pleased with this new authorisation that validates the benefits of BACTOCELL as a solution to improve liquid feed quality in sows, fattening pigs and piglets. BACTOCELL was already recognised for its probiotic benefits on gut health. We continue to document our benefits to producers and the industry as a whole.'

For more information about Lallemand visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

New research from the SPRG demonstrates that Orego-Stim and pHorce are effective in the prevention and control of Necrotic Enteritis

Earlier this month Professor Charles Hofacre, President of the Southern Poultry Research Group (SPRG) presented results of a trial at the 2023 International Poultry Scientific Forum in Georgia, USA. The work, titled 'Prevention and control of necrotic enteritis with an essential oil (Orego-Stim) and an organic acid (pHorce)', reported that Orego-Stim and pHorce supplementation was effective in managing broilers and supporting performance through a necrotic enteritis challenge window.

'Necrotic enteritis is commonly seen in broilers from 14-28 days and is caused by over-population of Clostridium perfringens, with coccidia infection acting as a predisposing factor,' explains Professor Hofacre. 'The most common form of necrotic enteritis is subclinical, which can lead to negative effects on growth rate and feed efficiency due to intestinal damage and impairment of nutrient absorption'.

In the trial, 1800 Ross x Ross chicks were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups (Challenge control, Orego-Stim: 1000 g/t, Orego-Stim: 500 g/t and Orego-Stim + pHorce: 300 g/t + 500 g/t). On day 0, all groups received a live coccidia vaccine, and on day 14 were challenged with Clostridium perfringens via the drinking water. Mortality, feed intake and FCR were recorded until 42 days of age.

Broilers fed diets supplemented with Orego-Stim and pHorce had a significantly lower mortality as a result of necrotic enteritis infection, lower overall mortality and improved feed intakes. Orego-Stim supplementation resulted in a numerically improved FCR compared to the group of NE challenged broilers in the control group.

'Feeding Orego-Stim in the diet of broilers also reduced necrotic enteritis lesion scores compared to the challenge control group,' says Professor Hofacre. 'Overall, the trial results demonstrated that Orego-Stim had a significant impact on preventing clinical necrotic enteritis and helped to minimise the negative effects of Clostridium perfringens on broiler body weight and FCR'.

Professor Hofacre, who has a BS in Agriculture, an MS in Poultry Science and a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine, as well as a Master of Avian Medicine and a PhD in Veterinary Medical Microbiology, presented the impressive results of the trial work at the IPSF poster session of IPPE.

Natural oregano oil sources have many well-documented properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant and immunomodulatory functions. Orego-Stim, developed and manufactured by independent feed additive manufacturer Anpario, is a phytogenic feed additive formulated from a unique source of 100 percent natural oregano essential oil. It has been extensively researched and trialled in controlled challenge models and has been shown to successfully support broiler performance during coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis challenges. It is available as both a liquid and powder, enabling flexibility in application for producers.

For more information visit the Anpario website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

2023 IPPE has successful show

The 2023 IPPE has been a successful trade show with strong crowds, busy exhibitors and great energy evident throughout the trade show floor. This year, IPPE has approximately 28,000 attendees, 533,000 square feet of exhibit space and 1,180-plus exhibitors. Attendee numbers will be released after the registration database has been audited for duplications. Sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, American Feed Industry Association and the North American Meat Institute, IPPE is the world's largest annual poultry and egg, meat and animal food industry event of its kind.

'We are really pleased with the enthusiasm displayed by this year's attendees and exhibitors and their excitement in connecting with their colleagues from around the world. The attendee and exhibitor numbers and trade show floor continue to complement IPPE's unparalleled education sessions, invaluable networking opportunities and extensive exhibits highlighting the latest innovative technology, equipment and services for our industries,' remarked the three organisations.

The large trade show floor remains the central attraction. Numerous companies are showcasing their new products at IPPE, with all phases of the animal food, meat, and poultry and egg industries represented, from live production and processing to further processing and packaging.

The comprehensive education program schedule complements the exhibits by informing industry management about the newest issues affecting the industries. The 2023 line-up includes more than 80 hours of education sessions, ranging from animal agriculture sustainability to biosecurity as it pertains to foreign animal disease, to facility inspection package training.

Other featured events include the International Poultry Scientific Forum, the Latin American Poultry Summit, Pet Food Conference, Foreign Material Prevention & Control Workshop, TECHTalks program, New Product Showcase and publisher-sponsored programs, all of which have been great contributions to the 2023 IPPE.

For more information visit the IPPE website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Kent Nutrition Group Marshall plant wins 2022 Commercial Feed Facility of the Year

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) and Feedstuffs has named the Kent Nutrition Group's feed manufacturing facility of Marshall, Mo., as its 2022 Commercial Dry Feed Facility of the Year. Gary Huddleston, AFIA's director of feed manufacturing and regulatory affairs, presented plant manager Chris Igo with the award during the AFIA's Feed Education Program, happening in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo.

'Kent Nutrition's Marshall facility prides themselves on excellent customer service, high-quality feed and dedication, and those traits shine through,' says Mr Huddleston. 'We like to honour the facilities that do the right thing every day and that is surely Kent Nutrition.'

Kent Nutrition Group (KNG) is a division of Kent Corporation, a family-owned, American company that manufactures high-quality nutrition products for everything from livestock to small animals. The KNG's Marshall animal food manufacturing facility produces approximately 52,000 tons of multi-species animal food annually.  

Originally built in 1976, the Marshall team is comprised of 14 members. In their efforts toward continuous improvement, the facility recently installed a new Repete pellet mill automation system in 2020, which has allowed the plant to streamline its mixing process and put in place safeguards to reduce opportunities for human error, such as proceeding with a manufacturing run if the sequencing and flushing procedures are not properly followed. 

The AFIA has been recognising excellent feed manufacturing facilities through the Feed Mill of the Year program since 1985. Beginning in 2016, the program was expanded to the Feed Facility of the Year and began offering awards for an overall winner and four category winners. In 2021, the FFY program separated each category into its own individual program: liquid feed, commercial dry, premix and ingredient, and integrator, with each category having its own facility of the year award.

The semi-finalists for AFIA's 2022 Commercial Feed Facility of the Year award are Kent Nutrition Group of Mason, Mich., Belstra Milling of DeMotte, Ind., and Western Milling of Goshen, Calif.

For more information visit the website, HERE.  

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Einar Einarsson appointed as President of Marlen

Marlen International, Inc. ['Marlen'], a member of the Duravant family of operating companies, announces the appointment of Einar Einarsson to President where he will be responsible for leading strategies that bring Marlen's high-performance food processing equipment and world class service to food processors around the world.

'Einar has an impressive track record driving strategy and operations, and we are excited that he will be leading Marlen through the company's next phase of growth,' says Mike Kachmer, President and CEO of Duravant.  'His depth of industry experience in the food processing sector will further strengthen the customer partnerships and strategic alliances the talented Marlen leadership team has built.'

Mr Einarsson brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the food processing industry including leading the North America division of a global provider of food processing solutions serving the Poultry, Meat, Fish and Prepared Foods industries and as a Managing Director for a manufacturer of high-quality cast aluminum cookware. 'We are thrilled to have Einar now leading Marlen. His technical and business acumen will serve our customers, employees, and stakeholders well,' says Bob Campbell, former Marlen President who will be transitioning into a corporate Duravant leadership role focused on operational initiatives across the business.

'Marlen is a well-established and trusted supplier in the industry and being part of the Duravant family on its impressive growth journey, I'm excited to bring my experience and to join the great talent we have in the company,' says Einar Einarsson, President of Marlen.  

Mr Einarsson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Iceland and a post-graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany.

For more information about Marlen visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Olmix joins UNIFA, the French union of fertilisation industries

Olmix has joined UNIFA, the French union of fertilisation industries, which represents the plant nutrition and soil health industries. The arrival of Olmix thus completes the Biostimulants section of the organisation.  

Image credit: Erik Fitzpatrick on flickr
(CC BY 2.0)

Pursuing its development in France and internationally, Olmix has made official its membership to UNIFA, the professional organisation for the promotion and value of the benefits of fertilisers, soil improvers and biostimulants, with respect to environment and health, and in support of the increased quality and competitiveness of French agriculture. 

Catherine Lamboley, Director of the Olmix Group's Plant Care Business Unit, underlines the importance of this membership, "The plant nutrition industry is undergoing major changes to face important issues at stake: climate, energy and food sovereignty. Olmix has been committed from the outset to supporting farmers and distributors with concrete, bio-based solutions, and our sector is fully mobilised to act and respond to these major challenges. We are convinced that solutions will come through cooperation and the strength of the collective. This is what motivated us to join UNIFA, which, with its members, is tackling the challenges of decarbonation, circularity and innovation head on."

UNIFA brings together 36 producers of mineral, organo-mineral, organic fertilisers and soil improvers who operate 77 production sites, employ over 4,000 people directly and generate 8,000 indirect jobs for a turnover of €2.2 billion in France in 2021. 

Florence Nys, General Delegate of UNIFA, also sees the value of this new collaboration, "We are delighted to welcome such a dynamic company into our federation. It is important to show the diversity of the fertilisation world, and to underline the importance of biostimulation in our sector. I think that Olmix has a lot to offer us in this respect." Olmix has joined the UNIFA Biostimulants section and will contribute to promote the relevance of these solutions, finally recognised at European level, in a combined approach with fertilisation and soil health management.

For more information about Olmix visit the website, HERE.  

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Conveyor belt cleaner tensioners: Options for safe, efficient operation

There are many issues to consider when specifying the most appropriate conveyor belt cleaner, not the least of which is maintaining proper tension to achieve optimum cleaning performance without introducing related problems. Inadequate tensioning causes carryback to cling to the belt and spill along its path, piling up under the conveyor and emitting excessive dust. This requires extra labor for cleanup and can affect air quality. Over-tensioning leads to friction damage to the carrying side of the belt, premature blade wear and potential splice damage. Both scenarios contribute to unsafe work conditions and raise the cost of operation.  

'There are two basic approaches to applying tension to the belt cleaner: linear and rotary,' Mueller continues. 'The blade's cleaning position and angle of approach to the belt often dictate whether a linear or rotary tensioner is used.'  

The Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) defines the cleaning positions as primary, secondary, or tertiary. Primary cleaners typically function with a 'peeling' action, while secondary and tertiary cleaners are usually scrapers. Belt cleaners mounted in the primary position generally employ a rotary style tensioner, while most units mounted in the secondary or tertiary positions use linear style tensioners. 

In most cases, belt tensioners have to be monitored and adjusted manually so they can maintain optimum pressure and carryback removal. Estimating when blades need changing is often a guessing game that, if left too long, could lead to unnecessary complications.  

Linear Tensioners 
'Linear tensioners are most often applied where the compensation for wear is required in small increments, such as with hard metal-tipped cleaners located in the secondary cleaning position or with brush cleaners,' Mueller says.  

The simple design of linear tensioners often allows just one setting for full blade wear. Further, these tensioners can accommodate actuator deflection for accurate adjustment of cleaning pressure, delivering the ability to accommodate uneven mounting positions or asymmetrical blade wear. 

Rotary Tensioners 
The required tensioning forces can be applied by springs, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, electric actuators or from torque stored in an elastomeric element. Rotary tensioners like the Martin® Twist™ Tensioner are often used with urethane blades, where the change in blade height and thickness as it wears is significant. Rotary designs tend to be compact and, in most cases, the actuator(s) can be mounted at any orientation, which provides options for installing the belt cleaner in the optimum position.    

Air Tensioners
Air tensioners use the resilience of a pneumatic cylinder to cushion impact. The tensioners can use Martin's Air Connection Kit to plug them directly into an existing air system, allowing for a more streamlined installation process. 

Spring Tensioners
Spring tensioners maintain efficient belt cleaning with a rugged coil spring. The Martin XHD Spring Tensioners deliver effective cleaning while cushioning splice shock to prevent damage, well suited for tensioning heavy duty belt cleaners while standing up to tough conditions. Dual tensioning is recommended for belt cleaners installed on belts wider than 48 in (1200 mm). However, dual tensioning does not change the fact that regular adjustment is required to maintain suitable cleaning pressure on the belt, which is where Martin's N2® Smart Technology comes into play. 

Auto Tensioner/Position Indicator
Martin Engineering's smart technology platform includes the company's patented N2® Position Indicator to monitor primary cleaner blade wear and inform operators when the blade needs changing. The system uses a cellular gateway that relays data to the cloud and then to the user, delivering actionable information in real time.  

The N2 PI and Smart Device Manager App ease the burden on managers and workers so they can focus their attention on other critical details of the operation. Precise tensioning and improved belt cleaning reduce the volume of dust and spillage from carryback, improving workplace conditions and decreasing the labor needed to maintain and clean around the discharge zone. 

While manufacturers continue to improve belt cleaner effectiveness, it has become clear that there is no single or ideal solution for belt cleaning and tensioner selection. Safety of personnel and the belt itself is the primary consideration when selecting a tensioner. Ease of inspection and maintenance is critical for belt cleaner effectiveness, so the tensioner must allow quick and safe service. Martin Engineering offers the services and tensioning products that are necessary to meet the multifaceted demands of belt cleaning.

For more information about Martin Engineering visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

The Grain Milling Expo is set to take place October 4-5, 2023

Grain Milling Expo - GME - is back in force after the pause imposed by Covid and the war in Ukraine. The ninth edition of the GME exhibition will take place on October 4 & 5, 2023 at the International Center for Conferences and Exhibitions of the Office des Changes (CICEC) in Casablanca.

This exhibition, dedicated to the milling sector in particular and cereal processing in general, is the logical and renewed continuity of the technical days of our Institute of Training in Milling Industry (IFIM), now delocalised, professionalised and internationalised by its opening to Africa and the Middle East.

Organised each two years, this professional event, which constitutes a space for exchange of information and experiences and a showcase that opens up prospects for development, has now established itself as the unmissable event for all cereal processing operators (millers, semolina makers, pasta and couscous manufacturers, bakers, biscuit makers, etc.).

In addition to the exhibition area, which will bring together more than 100 internationally renowned exhibitors, this exhibition will also be marked by the organisation of conferences and round tables under the unifying theme, inspired by Royal Directives: "Food Sovereignty: Cereals' Case "

For more information about the expo visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

Mecmar mobile drier is key to cost effective, adaptable and flexible grain drying plant for I.F Jackson & Son at Bowsden West Farm

Having made the decision to invest in a new grain drying system to increase the capacity for temporary storage of wet grain and increase the level of automation around drying crops before storage, Ian and Tom Jackson chose to continue to deploy an electric automatic Mecmar SSI 28 T mobile drier, supplied by McArthur Agriculture.

'We purchased our previous Mecmar from DMI Mechanical Engineers, now part of McArthur Agriculture, in 2016 and it served us extremely well,' explains Ian Jackson, who with son Tom and another joint venture, farm 1,000 hectares in and around Bowsden near Berwick upon Tweed. Cropping is split 60/40 percent between winter and spring crops.

'When we took the decision to invest in a new 5,000t grain store to house a small grain drying plant which would allow us to add further automation features, we capitalised on the initial investment by refreshing our existing Mecmar with a new Mecmar SSI 28 T, electric, automatic, mobile drier with aspirator cleaner. We were entirely satisfied with our previous Mecmar and could find no reason to change either the drier or the supplier!' adds Ian Jackson.

'The new grain store gave us the space to increase our capacity for the temporary storage of wet grain. We already had one 30t hopper and we purchased a second, enabling us to hold 60t of wet grain in front of the drier,' continues Ian Jackson.

Both hoppers are filled using the farm's loading shovel with a 3t capacity toe tip bucket. The existing hopper feeds directly into the Mecmar's loading auger and the second hopper uses a new 8' auger to transfer grain across automatically when the first hopper empties.

When the new Mecmar and the two hoppers are full the Jacksons can now dry and cool 84t of grain without operator intervention, saving crucial man hours during harvest.

Initially the new Mecmar was located at the gable end of the new store so open to the elements. As a result of losing some days during harvest due to bad weather and the need to pack the drier away for winter, the Jacksons extended the grain store with an open sided extension to provide protection from the weather for the drier and the hoppers.

As well as providing a cost-effective automated grain drying solution, the Mecmar also conditions the grain as it is constantly moved around during the drying and cooling process helping to improve bushel weight.

Once dried the grain is currently discharged into a heap inside the grain store and then moved and pushed up to fill the store with the loading shovel.

Plans have been made for the future to increase the automation of the plant, the aim would be to reduce valuable man hours by using an incline conveyor to transfer grain from the drier to a top belt conveyor which would transport grain to the required location within the store.

The new plant meets the Jacksons' increased grain handling requirements and has also allowed them to take the initial steps in building a more automated solution. They have the opportunity to add increased automation and integration bit-by-bit without needing to make one large capital outlay.

'I had worked with DMI Mechanical Engineers since 1996 and had a long and trusted relationship with its senior management which has carried on without interruption with the transition to the McArthur Agriculture team. The installation and ongoing services they have delivered has been faultless,' says Ian Jackson.

'The end result is that working closely with McArthur Agriculture we have a plant that exactly meets our requirements for today and which can be adapted to meet future requirements. But importantly, it is a flexible and adaptable solution, which should the farming landscape significantly alter due to the unprecedented changes that are currently taking place across the agriculture sector, we could pack-up the entire grain drying system and sell it, which would not be the case with other solutions. We really do have a plant that will allow us to take the business forward in whichever direction is necessary,' concludes Ian Jackson.

For more information about McArthur visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.

VIV Asia 2023 presents over 100 sessions from industry experts

VIV Asia, a leading international trade exhibition and conference for the animal protein production supply chain in Asia, announces its conference program at the show. With a focus on cutting edge know-how, the conference program will offer attendees a unique opportunity to gain insights into the latest innovations and technologies, as well as best practices from leading industry and research experts.

With over 200 high-level speakers joining from all over the world, the conference program is shaping up to be one of the most comprehensive and informative events in the industry. VIV Asia 2023 offers over 100 conferences and sessions. These sessions are initiated by the organisers, exhibitors, leading research institutes, knowledge partners and industry associations. Attendees will have the chance to hear from experts on a wide range of topics f.e. on early feeding, feed efficiency or controlling Avian Influenza, maximizing dairy farm margins, improving gut health and sustainable solutions for animal production. Some of the conferences require an entry fee, but the majority of the program is free to visit.  

Reimagining the Global Food System
On March 8, Tony Hunter, Global Food Futurist at Future Cubed, kicks off with "Reimagining the Global Food System". Feeding 10 billion people by 2050 means that the Food, Beverage & Agriculture industries are at the forefront of meeting this challenge. Our current food system can't equitably and sustainably feed the increasing population. New technologies, doing more with less, are rising to the challenge, enabling us to reimagine a more sustainable and equitable global food system.

Must attend conferences for aquaculture specialists
Aquaculture specialists have the opportunity to attend two conferences the day prior to the show on March 7th. The first is the Aquatic Asia Conference and themed 'Transformation to Sustainability', while the second is the 7th edition of the annual Aqua Feed Extrusion Conference, co-organised by VIV, International Aquafeed and Fish Farming Technology magazine as well as Dr Mian Riaz of Texas A&M University. This specific rendition of this conference focuses on extrusion machinery and aquatic feed systems, and will include speeches from industry professionals which will offer inspiring ideas on how users can better utilise their extrusion equipment.

Future proof production
As the world looks to a more sustainable future, production practices will have to adapt to meet new demands. At VIV Asia 2023, there will be a range of sessions dedicated to future proofing the business. From alternative protein solutions and feed for the future, to smart factories and waste management, visitors will be able to explore the latest developments in sustainability.

Plus, with a focus on energy-efficient production, attendees can be inspired how to make their business more environmentally friendly. With so much change on the horizon, these sessions are essential for anyone wanting to set themselves up for success in the future.

The program covers a vast majority of subjects for the production of poultry, dairy, swine and aquaculture. It has been set up in cooperation with many high-standing partners, such as the Good Food Institute Asia Pacific (GFI APAC), Thai Union Group PLC, The Halal Science Center, Chulalongkorn University, Thai Automation and Robotics Association (TARA), Misset International, WATT Global Media, Perendale Publishers, Asian Food and Feed Insect Association (AFFIA), Thai Ruminants Veterinary Association (TRVA), Thai Holstein Friesian Association, Thai Feed Mill Association (TFMA), Department of Livestock Development (DLD), Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations (FAVA), International Poultry Council, and many more. These partnerships help to ensure that attendees will have access to the latest information and research in the field.

Topics related to food engineering and future food
GFI APAC will be hosting 'How Meat Producers Can Benefit from the Alternative Protein Boom' on March 8, and Thai Union Group PLC will present 'Delighting Customers and Consumers with Alternative Proteins through Application Development'. The co-located show Meat Pro Asia also has a conference highlight focusing on sustainability, showcasing new solutions provided by Multivac Group, Mayekawa, Bizerba Southeast Asia and HiperScan GmBH. To add to that, top brands from the food engineering sector will talk about the latest trends in Food safety (Ecolab, Mettler Toledo, Rieckermann and Marel) and Halal food courtesy of The Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University during the exhibition at Jupiter 4, IMPACT.

The first sessions are now open for sign-ups and can be viewed on the exhibition website. VIV Asia 2023, co-located with Meat Pro Asia, will take place from March 8-10, 2023 at IMPACT in Bangkok, Thailand. Both exhibitions will open their doors from 10:00-18:00 hrs during all three days.

For more information or to register for the event visit the website, HERE. 

The Global Miller
This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.