PSI Polymer Systems Inc. has launched a new patent-pending continuous back-flush screen changer design that includes a system whereby contaminated screen packs are flushed and discharged through a port under the changer's housing.
PSI introduced the screen changer at NPE2012, despite a charge by rival Kreyenborg GmbH of Münster, Germany, that the new PSI screen changer infringes on its patent. Kreyenborg Managing Director Jan-Udo Kreyenborg declined to discuss the matter at his company's booth, noting that it is a matter for lawyers.
PSI President Glenn Woodcock was adamant that PSI's design is new and questioned the timing of Kreyenborg's announcement. He insisted that PSI will qualify for its own patent.
PSI is based in Conover, N.C., and is a leading U.S. supplier of polymer filtration equipment, gear pumps, static mixers and diverter valves. It supplies systems to the plastics extrusion, polymer processing and recycling industries.
The new screen changer is geared to provide a cleaner and safer environment for operators. It is designed to process highly contaminated materials.
Woodcock said that the equipment is fully automatic and can process up to 15,000 pounds an hour.
The firm also recently opened a subsidiary in Talheim, Germany, to supply the European market.
NPE2012 was held April 1-5 in Orlando.
