ABS focused on blenders, controls, dryers

Wallace, Mich.-based Advanced Blending Solutions LLC (ABS) and its Thoreson McCosh division will bring a range of innovations for blender technology, control systems and dryers to two booths at NPE2024, featured at two different booths.

The ABS (W4861) updates are aimed at improving performance and efficiency through new levels of control and accuracy, a company news release said. ABS will show a new extruder-mounted blender and introduce a new in-line trim and roll repelletizer.

The Thoreson McCosh (W4543) brand of dryer technology will focus on two developments at NPE2024.

ABS acquired Thoreson McCosh Inc., a desiccant dryers and auxiliary equipment maker in Troy, Mich., in 2020 to increase its presence in the injection molding and blow molding markets. The deal was completed after Thoreson McCosh had put money down on a booth for NPE2021. ABS officials then opted to keep both booths rather than lose the down payment.

Many of the highlights at the ABS booth will be related to better blending. The improvements include a new extruder-mounted "Simplicity" series blender, which the release said offers increased stability through a lower center of gravity and more balanced weight distribution.

The new in-line trim and roll repelletizer tackles both in-line trim and trim-and-roll applications with ease while being compact and energy-efficient, the release said.

ABS won't have it at NPE2024 due to space constraints, but there will be marketing materials.

The new repelletizer features improved screw geometry that ensures precise melt temperature control and high-quality pellets, the release said, while the large collector chamber facilitates efficient cooling and transportation.

Other ABS innovations that will be on display include a new color analyzer, which is scheduled for release at NPE2024. The release said this versatile tool enables precise color measurement from samples or directly on production lines, empowering data-driven color control.

ABS also developed a new modular magnet drawer, which is usually placed on the extruder throat after the weigh hopper to filter out metal that accidentally finds its way into the resin stream. The new magnet drawer has 75 percent more power compared with previous versions and high-temperature options to expand capabilities by 300° F, the ABS release said.

In addition, a new check valve for common material lines now is fabricated from stainless steel with FDA-approved wear surfaces. The release said this valve replaces legacy gum rubber options to improve hygiene and performance.

ABS also redesigned a vacuum relief valve (VRV) to provide better control over process air, which improves performance and reduces noise levels, the release said. The new valves eliminate binding issues for reliable operation and venting.

The two developments from the Thoreson McCosh brand of dryers are:

• The new CK series of dryer hoppers, which feature a one-piece design that eliminates potential leak points and improves material flow.

The release said the stainless steel construction and increased thermal insulation boost performance, while the modular framework simplifies installation and can be customized with numerous bolt-on accessories.

• The TD series of dryers, which was given panel and code updates to enhance the user's experience and control. The release said the upgraded regen heater boxes and standard regen power-saving features optimize energy efficiency and process stability.