In industrial environments, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are widely used for storing and transporting bulk materials between production sites and processing facilities. These containers are not permanently installed but designed for mobile and flexible use. Ensuring complete and residue‑free emptying is a recurring challenge in many chemical and process‑engineering operations - especially when handling poorly flowing materials such as powders, granulates or moist products. Vibration technology provides an effective and economical solution.
Typical Challenges in Emptying Containers
During emptying, several issues may occur:
- When bulk materials form lumps, bridges can develop and block the discharge outlets.
- Funnel flow may cause only the central column of product to flow while material near the sides remains stuck.
- Moist or fatty materials tend to adhere to the container walls, creating stubborn build‑ups.
These problems lead to extended emptying times, increased cleaning effort and the potential contamination of subsequent batches. Manual interventions - such as shaking, knocking or even hitting the container with a hammer - are often required, resulting in additional time, labour and wear on equipment.
Emptying with Industrial Vibrators
Industrial vibrators reliably and precisely set the container walls or discharge areas into motion. This mobilises the bulk material, collapses bridges and enables fast, continuous and complete emptying.
NetterVibration offers a wide range of specialised, high‑quality vibrators and matching accessories. Depending on the material, process and container type, experts select the ideal solution for each application.
Mounting with Vacuum Holders and Pressing Stations
Unlike fixed silos, pipes or hoppers, vibrators cannot be permanently mounted at the optimal point on mobile containers. Traditional welding - or even adhesive brackets - are unsuitable due to the flexible use of IBCs. NetterVibration’s VAC vacuum holders are ideal for mobile applications:
- They can be used temporarily on almost any container wall without tools.
- They require no drilling or welding.
- They are available for all vibrator types and container designs, including customised versions for containers with unique geometries or performance requirements.
For identical or similar containers that need to be emptied regularly at the same position, automation can further reduce manual effort and ensure consistent placement. A pressing station with an integrated vacuum holder and vibrator offers an efficient solution.
The container is either positioned close to the VAC in the emptying station so it can attach itself automatically, or a swivel arm moves the VAC into position. In both cases, the vibration system is ready quickly, reliably and conveniently.
Practical Example: MIXACO
MIXACO, a leading manufacturer of industrial mixers, uses rolling containers to process colour pigments and powder ingredients such as flour, sugar or spices. These containers are emptied using vibration technology.
The previous solution with electric vibrators proved unsuitable due to excessive noise and a lack of vibration isolation, which caused damage to machine components. NetterVibration engineers developed a new setup using a VAC vacuum holder combined with a piston vibrator.
After the container is positioned at the station, the VAC automatically attaches - only for as long as necessary - ensuring minimal compressed‑air consumption. Rubber buffers prevent vibration from transferring into the station, and the reduced noise level helps maintain compliance with occupational safety requirements.
Unlike electric vibrators, pneumatic vibrators stop immediately without unwanted resonances. This resulted in a clean, reliable and highly effective emptying process.
