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K-State Today

August 7, 2013

Department of grain science and industry introduces bulk solids training

Submitted by Lisa Moser

Individuals who are responsible for handling and processing bulk solids in the grain, feed, biofuels, food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries may want to attend Kansas State University’s Bulk Solids Handling, Storage and Flow course planned for Nov. 11-14 at the International Grains Program Conference Center, 1980 Kimball Ave., in partnership with the bulk solid equipment industry, Kice Industries, Vortex and Fike Corp.

"Currently, the grain and powder industry from flour milling to biofuels, to pharmaceutical companies, lack an opportunity for continuing education in the technical areas that involve handling and processing bulk solids. This course will benefit the industry by allowing participants to fortify their skills and also understand the latest technology from the equipment industry," said Carlos Campabadal, program specialist in grain storage and feed manufacturing at Kansas State University.

The course focuses on handling, transportation and storage technologies and methods, and common bulk solids flow problems. Participants will learn about the science and engineering of bulk solids from Kansas State faculty, other university instructors and industry experts in practical classroom and hands-on sessions. Bulk solids handling and flow equipment are located in the Hal Ross Flour Mill and O.H. Kruse Feed Technology Innovation Center. Additionally, the newest powder characterization technologies, available in the Bulk Solids and Particle Technology Research Laboratory, will be utilized for instruction. The course will also include an on-site visit to a bulk solids handling equipment manufacturer.

Course instructor and grain science faculty member Kingsly Ambrose said, "This initiative, started in collaboration with industry and academic experts, will focus on understanding the bulk and particle characteristics of granular materials and will help in delivering a uniform granular product to the consumer.”

With his current experimental research and modeling approaches, Ambrose is focused on developing practical solutions to bulk solids handling issues faced by the industry. His current research areas include milling technologies, process simulation, handling techniques for solids with caking potential, grain dust explosions, and characterization of powders for their particle and flow characteristics.

"This new course is an exciting opportunity to expand our continuing education offerings in partnership with the bulk solids industry," said Dirk Maier, grain science and industry department head and director of the International Grains Program. "The investment the bulk solids industry has made in our facilities and programs, and the faculty expertise we have on-board at Kansas State, make for a winning public-private partnership effort."

To register for this course or learn about other training opportunities offered by International Grains Program, please visit the International Grains Program website.

This is just one example of the trainings offered through International Grains Program. In addition to feed manufacturing and grain management, the International Grains Program offers trainings in the areas of flour milling and grain process­ing, and grain marketing and risk management.