Longstanding Relationship Makes Qlar (formerly Schenck Process) Natural Choice

As an energy-intensive sector, the cement industry has taken fast steps to reduce their environmental impact, focussing on ways to build a more sustainable future. So has a leading producer of building materials, a longstanding client of Qlar. As one of the early pioneers of alternative fuels in the cement industry, their previous feeding system, equipped with Qlar feeders, had been installed over a decade earlier. The client was aware of industry innovations in that period and due to the long-term success of the preceding system, Qlar was asked to submit a proposal to support them in upgrading their alternative fuel installation and meeting their goals. 

Qlar supported the client for over a decade, having supplied and maintained their previous feeders. They had already experienced first-hand the quality, longevity, and efficiency of the feeding machinery that Qlar supplied. They also delivered ongoing support to the client as their local partner. This included clear communication in their native language and local support services.

Alternative Fuels Test and Innovation Center Enhances Peace of Mind 

During the negotiation stages, the client was able to visit the Qlar Test and Innovation Center, based in Prague, Czech Republic. At the state-of-the-art testing facility, the client was able to observe the MultiFlex feeders in operation and analyze specific data based on the exact materials they would be working with. This provided them with a clearer vision of how this equipment would work for them and how these machines would contribute to achieving their overall objectives.

Seeing the MultiFlex feeders in action allowed them to assess the suitability of the machinery and gave them peace of mind about the equipment they were purchasing before committing to their investment. 

A Design-Led Approach to Meeting Client Requirements

The client had very specific requirements, so the team at Qlar took a design-led approach to ensure all criteria were achieved. The feeders needed to be efficient and accurate, but they were also restricted to a set space and location. Due to the location of the platform, there were height restrictions based on the installation of the previous feeder. The MultiFlex feeder, therefore, had to feed from the upper floor, which was located just below this platform. This meant there were no anchor points on the deck to connect the feeders to. To ensure effective installation, this section needed to be attached to the ceiling rather than bolted onto the floor. Attaching the feeder in this manner meant that Qlar needed to make certain the feeder had strong, effective support to the upper floor and was attached at a precise angle for the machine to function effectively.

The customer was also looking to optimize the number of feeders. With their four infeed points, Qlar was able to provide a set of two MultiFlexBin feeders. Each of them has two feeding outlets and the customer can simultaneously feed four points from only two feeders which allow for space and cost savings.

Overcoming Dust Contamination Challenges 

One of the main issues the client faced, previously was dust contamination based on how they used their feeders. This was something they needed a workable solution to, as dust particles could lower the effectiveness of the feeder. Therefore, Qlar recommended the MultiFlex Feeder which has dual outlets within a dust-tight design. 

The client also had previous issues with their rotary valves which were rectified with the new solution, as the MultiCell AF blow-through rotary valve that Qlar implemented, contributed towards the handling of alternative fuels alongside other technologies. The addition of this rotary valve also enabled the client to ensure consistent feed rates were maintained by aerodynamically blowing through materials, reducing the risk of malfunction or blockages. 

Sustainable Feeding of Alternative Fuels in Cement with MultiFlex Feeder

Continued Customer Satisfaction Aids Long-Term Relationship

Having worked with this client for over a decade and being their ongoing local partner in Poland, Qlar had built up a strong, longstanding relationship with them. Once the installation of the feeders was finalized, the client was very satisfied with the process. Their objectives in consistency, accuracy and sustainability were quickly met and the power and energy needed for the equipment were much lower than their previous machinery, making it more efficient and economic. This all contributed to helping them continue their work in reducing their carbon emissions.

After the client’s investment in two Qlar MultiFlex feeders and four MulticellAF rotary valves, they have since invested in more feeders to replace other older machines in other plants in Poland. This provides a strong testament to the client’s belief in the Qlar brand, and the quality and efficiency of the equipment.