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Vismec participates in MECSPE 2025, the international trade fair for the manufacturing industry

From March 5 to 7, 2025, Vismec will take part in MECSPE, the International Trade Fair for the Manufacturing Industry. This year marks the 23rd edition of the event, which will take place in Bologna.

Our company will be present at Hall 36, Stand B 66 – come meet our team in person!

Vismec at MECSPE 2025: highlights

Among the key topics, the 2025 edition of MECSPE will focus on sustainability and the digitalization of industrial processes.

Vismec has extensive expertise in both areas. Our drying, conveying, and dosing systems for plastic granules:

• Enable efficient process management in terms of energy savings and resource optimization, while ensuring excellent quality results.
• Are integrated with Industry 4.0 control systems, which facilitate operators' tasks and allow for data interoperability in advanced industrial automation.

One example? The integration of our machines with the universal OPC UA interface, enabling Vismec industrial devices to communicate seamlessly with manufacturing companies' management systems and existing control devices.

Want to learn more? Come visit us at MECSPE 2025: Hall 36, Stand B 66!

by Laura Franceschi

Plastic raw materials: the different types of plastic granules

Plastic raw materials are used in many industrial sectors and are the starting point for a wide range of production processes. They mainly consist of plastic granules and pellets.

In this post, we will analyze the characteristics and differences between granules and pellets. Then, we will propose a classification of plastic granules according to the material they are made of and their behavior during processing. Finally, we will offer an overview of Vismec systems for dehumidifying, transporting, dosing and storing plastic granules.

Plastic raw materials: granules and pellets

Within the field of plastics, the words ‘granules’ and ‘pellets’ are often used interchangeably. However, there are also significant differences between these two types of plastic raw materials, regarding the production method, shape and fields of use.

• Plastic granules are small plastic particles, generally irregular in shape, resulting from crushing processes or the recycling of pre-existing materials. They are used both for ordinary processes and for specific applications, such as the production of technical polymers or bioplastics.
• Pellets, on the other hand, are obtained by extrusion and subsequent cutting of the molten material. Unlike granules, plastic pellets have a regular shape, generally cylindrical. Their regularity makes them ideal for industrial processes that require a precise and constant dosage.

Both are key elements in the plastics production chain: the choice between one or the other format depends on the needs of the production process and the characteristics of the desired product.

The different types of plastic granules: classifications

The classification of plastic granules can be carried out according to different criteria, including their hygroscopic properties and their composition. These aspects also determine the processing conditions and their possible industrial applications.

Hygroscopic and non-hygroscopic granules

A first criterion is based on the granules' ability to absorb moisture from the environment.

• Hygroscopic granules absorb and retain moisture in their molecular structure: this can compromise their properties during processing, altering the characteristics of the finished product. Consequently, the dehumidification phase before their use in production processes must be extremely effective. The most common hygroscopic materials include polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyurethane (PU).
• On the contrary, non-hygroscopic granules do not absorb moisture internally but can still retain water on the surface. Polymers such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) belong to this category. So it is easier to manage the elimination of humidity in these materials during the preparation phase for the production process, although they still require drying.

When working with hygroscopic granules, control of the dew point becomes particularly important. The dew point is the temperature at which the humidity present in the air begins to condense. Measuring the dew point, in this case, helps to correctly manage dehumidification, helping to ensure the quality of the finished product.

Classification based on the material

A second classification criterion concerns the material the granules are made of, an element that influences the mechanical and chemical properties of the granule and, consequently, the organization of the production process. Among the most common materials are:

1. Polyethylene (PE), used for packaging, pipes and films thanks to its chemical resistance and flexibility;
2. Polypropylene (PP), valued for its rigidity and heat resistance, used in sectors such as automotive and packaging;
3. Polystyrene (PS), suitable for light applications such as food containers and insulating materials;
4. Polyamide (PA), known as nylon, used for gears and technical components thanks to its resistance to wear;
5. Polycarbonate (PC), used for applications that require transparency and impact resistance, such as lenses and screens;
6. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), very common in packaging, especially for food;
7. Polyurethane (PU), valued for its elasticity, resistance to abrasion and versatility, used in applications ranging from industrial coatings to components.

There are many other raw materials used to make plastic granules: we have listed the main ones.

Vismec machinery for the treatment and management of plastic granules

Drying, transportation, dosing and storage of plastic granules and pellets are essential during the plastic processing stages to ensure the quality of the finished product and production efficiency. Vismec designs systems and machinery for the effective management of these processes, offering customized solutions to optimize performance and reduce costs.

• Drying. We have already mentioned how dehumidification is crucial, as residual humidity in the polymers can compromise the quality and resistance of the final product. Vismec wheel dehumidifiers are innovative and efficient dehumidification solutions with low energy consumption.
• Conveying. The transportation of plastic granules, whether individual or centralised, allows for the automatic distribution of the material to the various processing stations. Vismec pneumatic transportation systems reduce downtime and ensure safe material handling: efficiency and high performance.
• Dosing. Accurate granule dosing allows for a high-quality, homogeneous mixture, especially in applications that require the combination of several polymers or additives. Vismec offers volumetric doser and gravimetric doser systems that ensure perfect control over the quantity of dosed material, avoiding waste and guaranteeing a uniform result.
• Storage of granules and pellets. Vismec offers robust and reliable solutions for the storage of granules and pellets, to preserve the integrity of the material and facilitate its use. The containers are designed to facilitate manual or automatic loading and are made with a modular structure that makes them suitable even for the most demanding industrial applications.

Are you looking for innovative, high-performance systems for managing plastic granules in your company? Contact our team: we will be glad to help you.

by Laura Franceschi

De-oilers: what they are used for, applications in plastic granule drying

The de-oiler (or oil trap) is a device used to ensure efficiency and cleanliness in various industrial processes. In this article, we will see how it works, discuss its main uses and present its role in drying plastic granules. Then, we will analyse the characteristics and advantages of de-oilers designed and manufactured by Vismec.

De-oiler: what it is and its uses in industry

A de-oiler is a device designed to purify an air or liquid flow from oils or oily residues, to ensure that the machinery or plant in which it is used remains clean and efficient at all times. Its operating mechanism is based on advanced filtration principles, often combined with mechanical or centrifugal technologies, to capture oil particles and other impurities.

The process generally involves the following steps:

• oil inlet, i.e. the fluid (air or liquid) enters the de-oiler through a dedicated opening;
• oil separation, i.e., thanks to specific filters, combined in some cases with the generation of centrifugal movements according to the principles of physics, the oil particles are effectively removed from the fluid;
• collection of impurities, i.e., the newly separated oil is collected in a dedicated chamber, which can be emptied manually or automatically;
• clean fluid outlet which, now free of oily contaminants, flows out of the device ready to be fed back into the plant or machinery.

The de-oiling device is used in several industrial sectors where the cleanliness of machines and production or processing systems is particularly important. Examples of its main uses include its application in the food industry, where this device is used to remove oily contaminants from food or beverage conveying systems, maintain food safety and help to ensure its safety for consumption by the end user.

Oil traps are also very frequently used in wastewater treatment or reclamation. In this case, they operate to separate oil and grease from water before discharge or eventual reuse.

In the industrial sector, they are used, for example, in hydraulic mechanical systems: in this case, they help to separate the oil from the fluids to ensure the correct functioning of the equipment and prevent possible problems or interruptions. Similarly, in industrial air compressors, our de-oilers ensure the removal of oily residues in the compressed air flow, preventing damage to machinery and pneumatic systems.

In the plastics industry, de-oilers are particularly relevant in the drying of plastic granules, a sector in which our company operates. In this context, this device ensures that the air used in the drying process is free from oily contaminants, improving the quality of the finished material and the service life of machines and equipment. In the next section, we will describe the Vismec de-oilers, explaining their features and advantages.

The advantages of Vismec Oiltrap 

The Vismec Oiltrap is an effective solution to ensure that the airflow used in plastic drying processes remains clean and free from oily residues. As a result, this device also safeguards the perfect cleanliness and properties of the granules, preventing them from causing problems during processing or lead to flawed end products.

The operating mechanism of the de-oiler, that our company designs and manufactures, operates by the condensation of oily vapours. The fluid passes through the device following well-defined paths, condensing by means of special heat exchangers and allowing effective separation of the oil particles.

These particles concentrate at the bottom of the de-oiler tank, where they are collected in a transparent glass container for easy disposal. A butterfly valve allows easy and safe draining of the condensed oil.

Vismec de-oilers have many technical features tailored to the needs of the customer companies:

• practical quick couplings that facilitate the removal of the exchangers during maintenance operations;
• durable design with brass connections and hydrophilic aluminium frame, designed to resist corrosion;
• energy efficiency, especially in the cross-flow exchanger version, that allows heat recovery;
• high filtration capacity thanks to the two-stage system (optional) to remove up to 99.99% of oil;
• suitable for air flows up to 200 m³/h and temperatures up to 200 °C;
• simplified maintenance, since the exchanger geometry is designed to minimize the need for cleaning.

Therefore, our Oiltrap offers many advantages including, as mentioned, the very high effectiveness of the cleaning action and the reduction of maintenance costs. Moreover, it is also suitable for use in sectors with extremely stringent technical specifications, such as the medical, pharmaceutical or bioplastics sectors.

If you operate in the plastics sector and need reliable and innovative dehumidification solutions for your company, our Vismec technical team is at your disposal. Contact us and find out how our dryers can improve the efficiency and quality of your production processes.

by Laura Franceschi

Venturi aspirator: all about it and why it is important in granule conveying

The Venturi aspirator is an innovative device that exploits the laws of physics to create a vacuum flow without using the movement of mechanical parts. Thanks to this feature, it is widely used in various industrial sectors, including the conveying of plastic granules.

In this article, we will explain how the Venturi vacuum cleaner works, the advantages it brings and its applications. Then we will focus on the Venturi vacuum cleaners designed and manufactured by Vismec for conveying plastic granules.

Venturi suction unit: how it works

The operation of the Venturi vacuum cleaner is based on the so-called “Venturi effect”, a principle of the physics that exploits the pressure variation created by the passage of a fluid through a variable-shaped duct. This effect creates a low-pressure area that allows air or other substances to be sucked in, without the need for moving parts or motors.

In order to better understand the mechanism that regulates this unit, here is a description of the operating phases of a Venturi vacuum cleaner.

• Engine fluid injection. A fluid, usually compressed air, is introduced into the vacuum cleaner through a special duct.
• Passage through a narrow duct (nozzle). The fluid is subjected to an acceleration as it passes through a narrow area of the inner duct, increasing the speed and reducing the pressure according to Bernoulli's principle.
• Creation of the suction zone. After the narrowing, a low-pressure zone is created. It allows air or materials to be sucked from a side or dedicated opening.
• Mixing and outlet. The aspirated fluid mixes with the motor fluid and is expelled through the outlet of the device.

Thanks to this simple and effective operation, the Venturi aspirator offers several advantages. The first is the absence of moving parts, which eliminates the need for mechanical maintenance and extends the life of the unit. Another advantage is a usually very compact design, easy to integrate into existing systems. Finally, it is a very reliable suction system, that suits even the most demanding operating conditions.

The applications of the Venturi vacuum cleaner are many and varied and include, for example:

• chemical industry, where the device is used for conveying and handling powders and fluids;
• food industry, where the aspirator is used to transport dry ingredients such as cereals;
• plastics industry, with particular reference to plastic granules conveying.

In granule conveying, the Venturi vacuum cleaner ensures a continuous and uniform flow of materials, reducing the risk of blockages and optimising process efficiency. In the next section, we will take a closer look at the use of this device, introducing the solutions designed and manufactured by Vismec.

Venturi suction in granule conveying: Vismec solutions

The Venturi vacuum cleaner designed and manufactured by Vismec is an ideal solution for conveying plastic materials such as masterbatches or granule additives. Freestanding and powered by compressed air, it is particularly suitable for low volume production and can be installed directly above a drying hopper. Its design allows a smooth and continuous feeding process, with the possibility of adjusting the conveying air power by means of flow regulator.

The main technical features of the Venturi vacuum cleaner we offer include:

• reliability over time, stable and safe operation even under continuous use;
• solid and compact structure, entirely made of stainless steel to guarantee robustness and durability;
• dust separation efficiency, the spiral lid and the unique cyclonic vortex improve suction and separation performance;
• advanced filtration, equipped with a stainless steel expanded micro mesh filter, it is easily washable;
• intelligent monitoring, integrated with a capacitive sensor to monitor the material level and a visual alarm to warn of any shortage;
• simple control, that is a basic simple, intuitive and functional control system to facilitate adjustment by operators.

The advantages of this unit include, as already mentioned, the absence of mechanical moving parts and the consequent reduction in maintenance costs. The vacuum cleaner is also extremely silent, helping to reduce noise in the production environment and the associated inconvenience.

Thanks to its structural and functional characteristics, the Venturi vacuum cleaner we propose is ideal for handling the conveying of plastic granules over short distances and for quantities up to 70 kg/h. These elements make it perfect for short-scale applications.

Are you looking for innovative and effective solutions for granule conveying in your plastics company? Contact our team: we will offer you technical support and personalised advice to improve the performance and efficiency of your conveying processes.

by Laura Franceschi

Hot air dryer for plastic dehumidification

Hot air dryers are essential in the plastic processing industry. Effective drying of plastic granules ensures that businesses in this sector have completely dry materials for use in processing stages, thereby guaranteeing the quality of the final product. In this article, we will explore what hot air dryers are, how they work and what advantages they offer. We will explain the differences between drying and dehumidification and present the technical solutions and advantages offered by Vismec air dryers.

What a hot-air dryer is and how it works

A hot air dryer is a device designed to remove surface moisture from plastic granules by using heated air. Below are the detailed process steps.

1. Heating the air. The air is heated using electric heating elements or other heating systems. As we are going to see in more detail in the last paragraph, in the case of Vismec dryers, specific systems control the air temperature very precisely.
2. Hot air circulation. Hot air flows through the hopper, absorbing surface moisture present on the plastic granules. This process is particularly effective for non-hygroscopic polymers, which do not retain moisture within their structure.
3. Expulsion or recirculation of moist air. In particular, in open-circuit systems, moist air is expelled and replaced with fresh air. In total or partial recirculation systems, on the other hand, moist air is filtered, reheated and reused, reducing energy consumption.
4. Control and regulation. The air flow rate can be adjusted manually or automatically to suit specific operating requirements. Advanced models, such as those from Vismec, include smart mode management functions and temperature probes to optimise energy efficiency.

These steps, when conducted efficiently, ensure a perfect drying of the granules while minimising residual moisture. In this way, plastics processors can have completely dried polymers, guaranteeing the quality of the final product. The drying cycle can also be continuous, ensuring a constant flow of dry granules to the machinery.

Drying and dehumidification: differences

Although they are often used synonymously, drying and dehumidification are two distinct processes.

• Drying refers to the removal of surface moisture from materials: a process suitable for non-hygroscopic polymers that, as mentioned, do not absorb moisture from their surroundings. In other words, these polymers do not significantly change their physical and chemical properties when exposed to moisture or water. This makes them different from hygroscopic polymers, which instead tend to absorb moisture, altering their structure and behaviour.
• Dehumidification, on the other hand, applies to hygroscopic materials that absorb moisture from the environment, such as PET. This dessication process uses more advanced and structured technologies.

With regard to this last point, the wheel dehumidifiers that our company designs and manufactures have an internal rotor to dehumidify the granule. However, in dryers, this element is omitted.

In various industrial contexts, both drying and dehumidification prepare the plastic granules for optimal processing. This condition, as we have already seen in previous articles, is particularly important in processes such as moulding or extrusion, or in sectors such as the electronics industry and the medical or food industries, which require perfectly dry granules to meet high quality standards.

Vismec air dryers: features and advantages

Vismec hot air dryers are designed to remove surface moisture from non-hygroscopic polymers. Combined with an adsorption dehumidifier, they can also handle highly moist hygroscopic polymers.

Key features of our dryers include:

• Variable air flow. Vismec dryers are equipped with a system that allows the air flow rate to be adjusted according to operational requirements, optimising consumption.
• Energy optimisation is achieved through smart mode management, a return air temperature probe, and a PID algorithm, which maintains a constant and precise air temperature during the process, ensuring uniform drying.
• High-efficiency blowers. The smaller models use brushless blowers, while the larger versions are equipped with IE2/3 motors and inverters, ensuring efficiency and durability.
• Advanced technology. The AG models have a 7-inch touchscreen control and a valve to manage recirculation, eliminating the need for cooling.

Vismec hot air dryers offer a number of advantages, thanks to their advanced technical features.

• Continuous drying process, for an uninterrupted workflow that maintains high productivity.
• Adaptability and energy savings. The internal devices we have described in detail allow the dryer to be adapted to specific needs, optimising energy consumption.
• Ease of use. Touch screen controls and remote monitoring options make Vismec dryers easy to operate and manage, improving operational efficiency.

Our hot air dryers offer flexible installation options, either mounted on machinery or placed next to moulding or extrusion equipment.

Looking for a high-performance hot air dryer for your plastic processing needs? Contact us to find the ideal solution for your business. 

by Laura Franceschi

Pneumatic conveying of granules in industry: what it is, applications, Vismec solutions

In the plastics industry, pneumatic conveying of granules and pellets is a very important auxiliary technology. A well-designed and efficient conveying system ensures efficient and fast processes, and its components can be adapted to meet the specific needs of the user company.

In this article, we will present in detail how pneumatic granule conveying systems work and the advantages offered by the solutions designed and implemented by Vismec in this sector.

Pneumatic conveying of plastic granules: how it works

Pneumatic conveying is a method of handling solid materials, such as granules and pellets, using an air or gas flow. The kinetic energy of the flow pushes the materials through a system of pipes and ducts, allowing for a fast and secure transfer.
Unlike traditional conveying methods, such as belts or screw conveyors, pneumatic conveying reduces the risk of contamination and damage to materials. This makes it perfect for the plastics industry, where maintaining the properties of plastic granules and preventing contamination is crucial to ensure the high quality of the finished product.

The operation of a pneumatic conveying system relies on several key components, including the compressor, transport pipes, valves and vacuum units.

1. The process begins with the suction of granules through a Venturi vacuum unit, which creates a vacuum in the system, allowing the materials to be extracted from their container.
2. Once aspirated, the granules are transported through pipes of various lengths and diameters, according to the specific requirements of the system in terms of speed, flow rate and distance.
3. Along the way, compressed air helps keep the materials in suspension, preventing material build-up, pipe clogging and, as mentioned, granule contamination.

The applications areas of pneumatic conveying in different industries are more than one. For example, in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, pneumatic conveying helps manage powders, granules and ingredients in a hygienic and safe manner, both for process operators and end consumers. In the mining and metallurgical industries, pneumatic conveying is used to move minerals, metal powders, heavy and abrasive materials. In the wood industry and building materials manufacturing, it is used for handling chips and powders from various materials.

In the plastics industry, similarly, pneumatic conveying is used for the conveying of granules and pellets, but also for the handling of powders and bulk materials, helping to simplify and speed up production processes. In particular, conveying systems support moulding, extrusion and blow moulding processes, where speed and efficiency in the conveying stage ensure a better manufacturing organisation, material quality and successful processing.

Moreover, pneumatic granule conveying systems can be integrated with other machinery, such as storage systems and mixers. Thanks to its capability to adapt to various applications and plant configurations, pneumatic conveying represents a versatile, efficient choice tailored to the specific needs of each company.

Vismec plastic granule conveying systems

In the plastic processing operations, Vismec pneumatic conveying systems are naturally involved in machine feed phase to ensure the continuous and optimal flow of materials. The granules are transferred from storage containers directly to processing plants, such as injection moulding presses or extruders. In these steps, the speed and efficiency of pneumatic conveying significantly help maintain productivity and reduce downtime.

Vismec offers centralised pneumatic conveying solutions for plastic granules that provide numerous advantages to the companies. Our plants, ranging from small to more complex systems, enable a rapid and controlled conveying of granules, optimising production logistics.
In particular, the larger centralised systems can manage up to 48 conveying stations, thanks to technically advanced control systems. Such plants can be equipped with various accessories which help maintain a clean working environment, optimise consumption, and facilitate maintenance. We have discussed this in more detail in the dedicated article.

A key element in the effective operation of granule conveying systems is the Venturi vacuum cleaner. This device, which operates by using the principle of vacuum, ensures an efficient aspiration in the initial phase of the process. By generating a vacuum within the system, Venturi hopper and loader allows for a quick extraction of materials without damaging them.

Venturi vacuum cleaner recently designed and manufactured by Vismec stands out for its reliability and ease of operation. In fact:

• it has a simple, compact design and can be easily integrated into various conveyor systems;
• thanks to the absence of moving parts, it requires little maintenance compared to other aspiration systems;
• it can be installed on a drying hopper;
• it efficiently vacuums materials without damaging them, and, thanks to its unique cyclonic vortex, it ensures an even more effective dust separation.

Venturi units tend to consume less energy than other aspiration devices. The vacuum cleaner produced by Vismec, in addition, allows the power of the conveying air to be adapted via a flow regulator, further optimising consumption.

As we have seen, the pneumatic conveying systems for plastic granules designed and manufactured by Vismec, in all their components, are not only high-performing but also adaptable to the specific needs of companies and capable of managing even complex conveying setups efficiently. Would you like to know more about it? Contact our team.

by Laura Franceschi

Vismec technologies supporting plastics processing: all the advantages

In plastics processing, the efficiency of operations is also influenced by the technologies used. For example, advanced granule conveying systems and drying plants help to ensure good results in moulding, extrusion, and blow moulding operations.

In this article, we will present the impact of efficient, high-performance conveying and drying systems on plastics processing. We will also discuss the advantages offered by Vismec systems to plastic manufacturing companies looking to improve their productivity, reduce costs, and achieve high-quality results.

The advantages of effective granule conveying in plastics processing

An optimised granule conveying system directly impacts the efficiency and quality of plastics processing, ensuring that material is transferred smoothly and without interruptions.

In the extrusion process, the granule conveying system must ensure a constant supply of material, avoiding interruptions that can compromise product quality. In fact, an irregular conveying system for granules arriving at the extrusion screw can cause variations in thickness and aesthetic defects in extruded profiles, tubes, or plastic films.

On the other hand, the advantages of an efficient granule conveying system with a constant material flow include:

• reduction of machine downtime due to feeding issues;
• optimal management of raw materials, preventing excesses or shortages of granules through a controlled material supply.

In the injection moulding process, a high-performance feeding system helps ensure the absence of contaminants in the plastic material, thermal balance, and proper distribution of granules. An inadequate system, conversely, may cause air bubbles or cavities in the finished product or retain impurities in the granule mix, compromising the strength and aesthetics of the moulded parts.

In blow moulding, where molten plastic is inflated in a mould to create hollow containers, the quality of the material must be ensured from start to finish. An efficient granule conveying system ensures that the material reaches the machine without significant variations in its basic conditions, allowing for:

• granules temperature control to ensure uniform melting during the process;
• reduction of potential structural defects or fragility caused by irregularities in the material;
• higher production speed, thanks to a continuous and smooth flow of granules.

Vismec offers granule conveying systems designed to ensure efficiency and reliability at every stage of the production process. Our centralised conveying plants enable automated handling of granule conveying from loading stations to the various processing machines, guaranteeing a constant flow of material and minimising human intervention.

Automation reduces process errors and material waste as well as enables continuous monitoring of conveying quality through advanced control systems such as Vismec FW50. Additionally, the presence of modular or adaptable components such as cyclonic filters ensures an optimal management of the different processing stages according to customer demands.

Advantages of effective drying of plastic polymers

An effective drying of plastic polymers contributes to the efficiency of production processes and the quality of the finished product. This is why the use of a high-performance drying system is crucial, especially considering the characteristics of the various plastics processing methods.

In the extrusion process, for instance, the presence of moisture can generate surface defects and air bubbles, compromising product quality. Conversely, effective drying ensures that granules are moisture-free before being melted, enhancing material consistency and homogeneity during extrusion. This results in defect-free products with uniform and strong surfaces, and it safeguards the mechanical performances of the material.

In injection moulding process, drying is equally strategic. If the granules are not dry enough, they may undergo hydrolysis processes that deteriorate the mechanical properties of the material, making it less resistant. Additionally, moisture can cause imperfections on moulded parts, compromising both aesthetics and functionality. Effective drying prevents these difficulties, ensuring that the piece meets the required quality standards, especially in sectors with stringent technical specifications, such as medical or advanced electronics.

Moisture can also have a significantly negative impact in blow moulding. Excessive water quantity in granules may cause changes in the viscosity of the molten plastic, generating weak points on the surface of the blown piece and compromising its structural resistance. An effective drying system, on the other hand, ensures defect-free and structurally strong products.

Considering the characteristics of the processes and the needs of the companies, Vismec offers a range of technologically advanced solutions for the drying of plastic granules. Here, the main ones:

• Drywell: compact and high-performance, designed to reduce floor space and ensure maximum ease of use.
• Dryplus: extremely versatile, installed onboard the machine, optimises energy consumption, by reducing it by up to 40%.
• DryCube: perfect for drying and conveying technical plastic granules, it combines the efficiency of a rotor dehumidifier with an integrated pneumatic conveying system, a receiver for the drying hopper, an IMM receiver, and related accessories. Flexible and independent, it is positioned beside the processing machine.

The advantages of Vismec systems also include an accurate control of residual moisture within granules, a modularity that makes it easy to adapt the systems to different production requirements, and reduced machine downtime.

Thanks to these technologies, companies can improve product quality, reduce waste, and increase operational efficiency. Discover how: contact our team!

by Laura Franceschi

What an industrial dryer is for: operation, applications, Vismec solutions

What is an industrial dryer for, and what are its fields of application? In production processes, moisture control allows ensuring the quality of processed materials, production efficiency and a successful final outcome. 

Therefore, in many sectors, a proper drying dehumidification prevents defects, reduces processing times, and preserves the longevity of products durability. We are going to talk about it in this piece, explaining the operation and purpose of an industrial dryer, with a focus on the plastics sector and on the cutting edge solutions offered by Vismec.

What is an industrial dryer for?

An industrial dryer is a device designed to remove moisture from the air or materials used in production processes. It works by reducing the water vapour and ensuring that materials are dry and ready to be processed, avoiding moisture negatively impact the process or the final product. This type of machinery is used in various situations where a controlled working environment is essential for successful production.

The operation of an industrial dryer is based on several technologies, some of which are more obsolete and others decidedly more advanced. The choice of the method to reach the best result depends on various factors, such as the type of material, its shape and density, and the expected performance of the process. Here are some of the most used dehumidification methods in industry.

• Drying ovens: a discontinuous and obsolete method that exposes the object or material to be dried to the agents of the surrounding environment, with potential risks of contamination and deterioration.
• Hot air drying: continuous drying system with high energy consumption. Furthermore, environmental conditions significantly influence the process.
• Compressed air drying: a method that uses clean, dry compressed air but requires high consumption and costs, making it suitable only for productions.
• Infrared rays: a fast, continuous process suitable only for large volumes of material, with high costs both in technology acquisition and in energy consumption.
• Dryers with vacuum technology: a method that uses pressure variations to lower the boiling point of water and decrease moisture, reducing drying times and energy consumption.
• Molecular sieve dehumidification: a continuous process with high energy consumption. However, as it is a closed-loop technology, the dehumidification is not affected by environmental conditions.
• Honeycomb sieve wheel dryers: a new generation of dehumidifiers which are more efficient and require a lower maintenance than traditional molecular sieves. These are the industrial dryers designed and manufactured by Vismec.

The question, "What is an industrial dehumidifier for?” does not have a single answer, as its fields of application are numerous. In the food industry, for example, moisture control prevents the growth of mould and bacteria, maintaining products' suitability to be consumed. In the pharmaceutical industry, it helps to preserve the stability of active ingredients and the safety of medicines.

In the electronics industry, drying protects sensitive components from moisture, preventing malfunctions or short circuits. In the metallurgy sector, excessive moisture can lead to rust and compromise the quality of finished products. So, a good drying is definitely necessary.

In the plastics processing industry, the use of dryers is particularly important. So, in the next section we will outline why, and we will focus on the characteristics and operation of Vismec’s wheel dryers dehumidifiers for plastic granules.

Focus on the plastics industry: Vismec dryers

Even in the plastics industry, the granules drying is crucial to ensure the quality of the finished product. Polymers, indeed, tend to absorb moisture from the environment; inadequate drying can compromise subsequent production processes, causing defects such as bubbles, opacity, colour differences or brittleness.

A proper moisture removal, on the other hand, preserves the mechanical and aesthetic properties of materials, improving production yield and reducing waste. We have discussed this extensively in other articles, such as the one dedicated to dew point or the one explaining how to properly choose a plastic industrial dryer.

Aware of the importance of this process, Vismec offers a range of energy-efficient, high-performance industrial wheel dryers. These machines use honeycomb sieve technology, compact structures that allow for optimal moisture removal.

Our industrial dehumidifier's operation is based on the use of a sieve on a moving wheel that absorbs moisture from the granules and releases it later during the regeneration phase. This system ensures a continuous and effective drying cycle without the need for compressed air or cooling water. 

One of the main advantages of Vismec’s wheel dryers is the reduction in energy consumption, with savings up to 40% compared to traditional systems. Additionally, automatic air flow control and the MPM (Material Protection Management) system protect the granules from the risk of over-drying and material degradation.

Among our wheel dryers:

• Dryplus is ideal for those seeking a reliable and precise process, with a drying temperature up to 180°C and a constant dew point up to -50°C;
• Drywell, thanks to its modular structure, it stands out for its energy efficiency and adaptability to production needs;
• DryCube, finally, represents a compact and versatile solution, perfect for installations in small spaces without compromising performance.

Now that you better know what dehumidifiers are used for in the industrial sector, you are ready to choose the most suitable one for your company's needs. Contact our team!

by Laura Franceschi

Vismec at Fakuma 2024, International Plastics Processing Trade Fair: October 15-19, Friedrichshafen

From October 15 to 19, 2024, Vismec will take part in Fakuma, one of the most important trade fairs in the plastics processing industry. This year will mark the 29th edition: the second consecutive year our company is participating. The event, as always, will be held in Friedrichshafen, Germany, and our booth will be number 2218, set up in Hall B2.

Fakuma 2024 Program

Fakuma is a strategic event for companies and professionals in the plastics sector: over 1,600 exhibitors from all over the world will attend the fair. For Vismec, being present means the opportunity to showcase the products we offer for the drying, transportation, storage, and grinding of plastics to a select audience in an industry increasingly focused on innovation and sustainability.

Among the key topics of interest during the event are:

• Technological innovation and process optimization in plastic processing;
• Sustainability, resource reuse, and new eco-innovative materials;
• Applications in advanced sectors, such as the medical field and bioplastics.

Vismec is preparing for the 2024 edition of Fakuma with the goal of highlighting the advanced features of the machinery and systems we offer, focusing on efficiency, energy savings, and quality results, even in sectors with advanced technical requirements.

Would you like to learn more about our company and its products? Contact us or visit us at the fair: we look forward to seeing you from October 15 to 19 in Friedrichshafen, at booth B2 2218.

Dal 15 al 19 ottobre 2024 Vismec prenderà parte a Fakuma, una delle più importanti fiere nel settore della lavorazione delle materie plastiche. Quella di quest'anno sarà la 29esima edizione: la seconda consecutiva a cui la nostra azienda partecipa.  L’evento si terrà come sempre a Friedrichshafen, in Germania e il nostro stand sarà il numero 2218 allestito nella Hall B2 

Il programma di Fakuma 2024

Fakuma è un appuntamento strategico per aziende e operatori del comparto materie plastiche: alla fiera parteciperanno oltre 1600 espositori da tutto il mondo. Essere presenti significa per Vismec poter presentare i prodotti che offriamo per la deumidificazione, il trasporto, lo stoccaggio e la granulazione delle materie plastiche ad un pubblico selezionato, in un settore sempre più attento a innovazione e sostenibilità.

Tra gli argomenti di maggior interesse durante l'evento, ci saranno infatti temi quali:

• Innovazione tecnologica e ottimizzazione dei processi di lavorazione delle materie plastiche;
• Sostenibilità, riutilizzo delle risorse e nuovi materiali ecoinnovativi;
• Applicazioni a settori avanzati, come quello medicale e delle bioplastiche.

Vismec, dunque, si sta preparando all'edizione 2024 Fakuma  con l’obiettivo di mettere in evidenza le caratteristiche avanzate dei macchinari e degli impianti che proponiamo dal punto di vista dell'efficienza, del risparmio energetico e della qualità dei risultati, anche in settori dalle caratteristiche tecniche avanzate.

Vuoi conoscere meglio la nostra azienda e i suoi prodotti? Contattaci oppure passa a trovarci in fiera: ti aspettiamo dal 15 al 19 ottobre a Friedrichshafen, allo stand B2 2218.

by Laura Franceschi

Vismec bio dryers: advanced technology for bioplastic drying

The bioplastics industry is growing steadily, driven by a widespread research for sustainable solutions in material choices, production methods and technologies. However, bioplastics processing presents complex challenges, particularly in terms of ensuring a proper drying of plastic granules. 

Here we will focus on the area of bioplastic drying, describing its needs and challenges. Finally, we will present the advanced solutions proposed by Vismec for this sector, with an innovative line of bio dryers.

Bioplastic drying challenges 

The drying of bioplastics is a critical phase in plant-based or biodegradable plastic processing. Unlike traditional plastics, bioplastics have characteristics that make them more sensitive to moisture. The presence of residual moisture in plastic granules, as we have already explained in previous pieces, can negatively impact the final quality of the product. 

Let’s see some of the main challenges that the industry have to face in bioplastic dehumidification:

1. High hygroscopicity - Bioplastics, such as PLA (polylactic acid), bio-based polyethylene, or Mater-Bi, are highly hygroscopic: they tend to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. This characteristic can lead to various problems during manufacturing, such as thermal degradation, reduced viscosity, and the formation of bubbles or imperfections in the finished product. Moisture removal is, therefore, essential to maintain the mechanical and visual properties of the product. For more information, we have explored the concept of "hygroscopic material" in our article on dew point.
2. Thermal degradation - Bioplastics are particularly sensitive to high temperatures. Inadequate or excessive drying can lead to a sensitive heating during extrusion or moulding, causing material degradation. This phenomenon can compromise the strength and integrity of the product, needing an extremely precise temperature management during the dehumidification process.
3. Sensitivity to environmental conditions - Bioplastics are organic materials derived from corn, rice and wheat, which make them more sensitive to environmental changes compared to traditional plastics. Relative humidity, temperature, and even air quality can influence the moisture content of plastic granules. This sensitivity requires a constant and precise control of the drying process to avoid defects during the production.
4. Need for consistent processes - One of the most delicate challenges in bioplastic drying is maintaining process uniformity. Even small variations in moisture content among different granules can lead to significant differences in the final product quality. This makes it essential to adopt technologies that ensure uniform dehumidification on a large scale.
5. Environmental impact - Sustainability is at the heart of the bioplastics industry. Therefore, drying processes must be designed to minimise the environmental impact. This means, for example, minimizing energy consumption and managing resources efficiently, reducing waste while maintaining effectiveness.

Facing these challenges requires both a deep understanding of the materials involved and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to precisely manage the characteristics and critical issues of bioplastics. As we are going to see in the next paragraph, Vismec Bio Dryers are designed and built keeping in mind these needs.

Vismec’s advanced solutions for the sector

Starting from our standard machinery, our company has developed a line of driers specifically designed to meet the needs of the companies that process bioplastics.

The innovative design approach we have chosen eliminates the need for compressed air or cooling water, thanks to the presence of a post-cooler with a thermostat integrated directly on the dryer. This approach not only reduces system complexity but also lowers the operating costs and environmental impact.

Moreover, Vismec’s bio dryers are designed to operate at low temperatures, keeping the bioplastics intact and ready for use. Their technical features include:

• wide range of drying temperatures - These dryers can operate effectively between 35°C and 50°C, ideal for low-melting-point biopolymers. The minimum adjustable temperature that can be set is 30°C, with a maximum differential of 7°C compared to ambient temperature.
• Air-to-air heating system - An innovative heating chamber with ventilation ensures that the heated air maintains the optimal temperature for the process, avoiding thermal fluctuations that could compromise the quality of the treated bioplastics.
• Model variety - Vismec dryer range includes several models, from DW14 with a capacity of 14 m³/h up to DP1200 with a capacity of 1200 m³/h. This versatility allows us to offer flexible solutions for both small-scale and large-scale manufacturing.
• Optional HEPA filter - To ensure the highest purity of the air used in the drying process, the bio dryers can be equipped with our HEPA filter, ideal for applications that require particularly rigorous hygienic conditions.

So, Vismec bio dryers offer several advantages to companies working with bioplastics. The ability to operate at low temperatures ensures that materials are not damaged, preserving the quality and integrity of the final product. Additionally, the eco-friendly technical design helps to reduce the overall environmental impact.

Would you like to examine in depth the topic and discover how our dryers for bioplastics combine operational efficiency with attention to the environment? Contact our team: we are at your disposal.

by Laura Franceschi