Food Industry

How to Optimise Processes with Auxiliary Systems: From Accumulators to Turning Stars

In industry, efficiency does not always depend on large machines. Very often, it is auxiliary equipment — those compact, supporting solutions — that truly make the difference in productivity, safety and line stability.

In sectors such as food processing and structural ceramics, where continuous flow and correct product handling are essential, having well-designed complementary systems can lead to efficiency improvements of over 15–25%, according to production process optimisation studies.

From accumulators to turning stars, each element provides specific value by reducing downtime, improving operator ergonomics and ensuring a more stable workflow. At IFAMAC, we integrate these solutions as part of a global engineering approach, ensuring that every stage of the process operates as a unified system.

1. Accumulators: Ensuring Smooth Product Flow

Accumulators are essential when production requires a temporary buffer to prevent stoppages caused by mismatches between machines. They fulfil three critical functions:

• Maintaining continuous flow during micro-stoppages in downstream processes.
• Preventing saturation in inspection, labelling or packaging stages.
• Increasing flexibility in lines with different operating speeds.

In the food industry, they can improve operational availability by up to 18%, while in structural ceramics they help stabilise fragile products such as bricks or slabs during machinery transitions.

2. Rotary Accumulation Tables: Intelligent Organisation in Limited Spaces

When space is limited or controlled accumulation is required before a manual or automatic process, rotary accumulation tables provide a simple, robust and effective solution.

Their main advantages include:

• Uniform product distribution.
• Reduced handling time for operators.
• Easy integration into existing lines, even in hard-to-access areas.

They are particularly effective in packaging lines where buffer points are required before final packing. In many cases, they reduce operator waiting times by 10–15%.

3. Conveyor Covers: Hygiene, Safety and Durability

In environments where hygiene is critical — especially in the food industry — conveyor covers serve a dual purpose:

• Protecting the product from external contamination.
• Protecting operators from entrapment or projections.

Typically manufactured from polycarbonate, stainless steel or technical PVC, these systems help maintain working environments that comply with food safety regulations (such as EC Regulation 852/2004).

They also reduce incidents caused by product falls and facilitate cleaning and visual inspection tasks — key factors for meeting quality and safety audit requirements.

4. Turning Stars: Precision in Motion

Turning stars are among the most important auxiliary systems when the process requires specific product orientation. Their role is critical in food and ceramic lines where positioning directly affects the final outcome (labelling, optical inspection, glazing, packaging, etc.).

• They allow controlled rotations of 90°, 180° or even 360°.
• They ensure uniform turning without damaging the product.
• They optimise product entry into subsequent automated systems.

Thanks to the use of high-resistance composite materials and format-specific designs, they achieve precision rates above 98% — a crucial figure in high-speed production lines.

Auxiliary Solutions That Multiply Performance

All these systems — accumulators, rotary tables, conveyor covers and turning stars — perform different functions, yet share a key characteristic: they transform overall line efficiency without requiring major investments.

Key benefits include:

• Reduced handling times
• Improved operator safety
• Greater precision in turning, accumulation and product reorganisation
• Optimised, uninterrupted flow
• Extended service life of main machinery thanks to more stable loading

In an increasingly competitive industrial environment, optimising processes does not always mean adding large machines or completely redesigning a plant. Very often, it is auxiliary equipment that enables:

• Stabilisation of production rhythm
• Risk reduction
• Improved ergonomics
• A structured and predictable flow

At IFAMAC, we understand that operational excellence is built by paying attention to every detail of the process. That is why, in addition to main machinery, we design customised auxiliary solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing lines and enhance every stage of production.

Because true innovation is not always large-scale: often, it lies in the discreet systems that make everything work better.

by javier

Solutions to optimise product transport in production lines

In modern industry, every second counts. Any interruption in product flow can result in losses of time, energy and profitability. For this reason, having intelligent and adaptable transport systems has become a decisive factor in ensuring operational continuity and final product quality.

From the food sector to logistics or ceramics, solutions designed for efficient transport — such as swan-neck elevators, automatic distributors or hinged belt conveyors — help maintain process fluidity, prevent accumulation and reduce downtime.

Below, we analyse how each of these systems contributes to a more agile, clean and efficient production process.

1. Swan-neck elevator: uninterrupted vertical transport

The swan-neck elevator is a robust and compact solution for the vertical transport of solid or packaged products. Thanks to its inclined design with PVC or modular cleated belt, it allows materials to be lifted at steep angles without losses, slippage or the need for complex intermediate systems.

Technical advantages:

• Efficient use of vertical space: reduces the plant footprint by up to 40% compared to conventional solutions.

• Modular and customisable design: adaptable to different product types, heights and working conditions.

• Minimal maintenance: accessible, wear-resistant components, ideal for continuous operation.

• Safety and cleanliness: food-grade materials and protection against spills or residues.

In environments where flow continuity and hygiene are critical — such as food handling, packaging or industrial components — this type of elevator can reduce transfer times by up to 25% compared to traditional inclined systems.

2. Automatic distributors: balance and precision in line flow

Automatic distributors are systems designed to redirect products between multiple production lines, balancing the flow without manual intervention. They are essential in packaging, packing or sorting processes, where speed and synchronisation determine the overall productivity of the plant.

Different configurations are available depending on process requirements:

• 1-to-2 distributor: splits a single infeed line into two independent outlets, reaching speeds of up to 30,000 containers/hour thanks to high-precision servomotors.

• 2-to-3 distributor: redistributes products from two lanes to three outlets, automatically balancing the flow using a counting system.

• 4-to-2 distributor: merges production from two double lines into a single double line, preventing saturation and maintaining a constant flow.

Key features:

• Automatic mode change depending on product presence.

• Easy integration into existing lines without major structural modifications.

• Intelligent logic control that ensures balanced flow distribution.

Thanks to these capabilities, automatic distributors can increase overall line efficiency by up to 20%, optimising load management and preventing interruptions at critical points in the process.

3. Hinged belt conveyors: smooth and controlled container handling

Hinged belt conveyors are one of the most versatile solutions for handling containers, jars or trays in high-output environments. Their articulated belt enables stable movement even through curves or diverters, ensuring product integrity at all times.

These systems are widely used in packaging, labelling and quality control lines, where synchronisation between machines is essential.

Technical advantages:

• Smooth, continuous movement, ideal for fragile or packaged products.

• Automatic grouping and separation of units without direct contact.

• Hygienic, easy-to-clean surface made from food-grade materials.

• Integration capability with vision systems or optical inspection for quality control.

In a typical food packaging line, the implementation of hinged belt conveyors can reduce transition times between processes by up to 30%, eliminating bottlenecks and improving product traceability.

Optimising product transport within a production line is not only a matter of speed, but of balance, reliability and hygiene.

Swan-neck elevators, automatic distributors and hinged belt conveyors represent technical solutions that enhance overall system performance, reduce downtime and improve energy efficiency.

In an industrial context where automation and precision are standard, investing in well-designed transport systems means committing to cleaner, more continuous and more profitable production.

by javier

The importance of hygiene in food production lines: practical solutions

In the food industry, hygiene is not only a regulatory requirement, but a critical factor that directly impacts product safety, brand reputation and the continuity of the production process.

According to data from EFSA and AESAN, more than 40% of incidents in food plants are related to cross-contamination or ineffective equipment cleaning. Avoiding critical accumulation points, protecting products from external agents and facilitating inspection and maintenance processes are key to ensuring quality.

To achieve this, there are specific mechanical solutions that help maintain cleanliness without compromising productivity or ergonomics. Below, we outline three of the most widely used solutions in transport, packaging and handling lines.

1. Conveyor covers: protection and preventive cleaning

In addition to acting as a physical barrier, conveyor belt covers are designed to integrate into lines where exposure to external agents poses a direct risk to food safety. They are custom-manufactured according to belt width, speed and type, and can include hinges, quick-release fasteners or inspection windows.

Additional functions and operational advantages

• Prevention of environmental contamination: reduce contact with aerosols, particles released from other process stages or agents present in the environment (flour, cocoa, icing sugar, seasonings, etc.).
• Improved control of foreign bodies: prevent tools, packaging materials or small parts from accidentally falling onto the product.
• Controlled cleaning access: hinged or removable models allow CIP systems or localised manual cleaning without stopping the entire line.
• Compatibility with inspection and machine vision: can include transparent sections or access points for cameras, optical sensors or weighing systems.

In sectors with microbiological or particulate risk, these covers support compliance with internal and external audits, reducing rework and non-conformities. Their impact on improving OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) is significant, especially when combined with HACCP plans focused on reducing critical control points.

2. Manual extractors: fast and safe intervention

Beyond their function as an “emergency outlet” for products, manual extractors are tools that allow operators to intervene without compromising batch hygiene or forcing full line stoppages. They can be installed at different points along the conveyor, with adjustable heights and trays featuring sanitary edges.

Extended advantages

• Prevention of blockages and breakages: immediate product removal prevents build-ups that could damage sensors, guides or belts.
• Improved handling of non-conforming products: facilitates the removal of defective units without affecting traceability.
• Waste reduction: by preventing accumulation-related spills or crushing, product integrity is preserved.
• Ergonomics and operational safety: the locking system provides operator stability, avoiding forced or improvised movements.

In lines operating at speeds above 15,000 units/hour, having these extraction points can reduce unplanned stoppages by up to 20% and minimise returns caused by cross-contamination.

3. Rotary accumulation tables: order, cleanliness and continuity

Rotary tables are a simple and practical solution designed to facilitate manual product collection at the end of the line. Their main function is to temporarily accumulate containers or finished units, allowing operators to remove them comfortably, safely and without interrupting production flow.

Key advantages and features

• Facilitated manual handling: products arrive organised and accessible, ready for packing or visual inspection.
• Hygienic and robust design: manufactured in stainless steel or food-grade polyethylene, suitable for frequent cleaning with pressurised water or disinfectants.
• Low-friction rotating surface: ensures smooth and continuous container movement, preventing jams or falls.
• Easy integration: can be installed at the end of any conveyor without structural modifications.

These tables are widely used in packaging, packing or end-of-line processes where human intervention is required for tasks such as inspection, case packing or palletising.

Their simplicity is their greatest strength: they provide an economical, reliable and low-maintenance solution to maintain operational flow and hygiene in the working environment.

Moreover, companies that invest in hygienic equipment not only minimise incidents, but also enhance their reputation with customers, distributors and regulatory bodies. In a sector where a single failure can lead to product recalls, penalties or contract losses, preventive tools make a decisive difference.

Ultimately, hygiene is no longer a parallel requirement to production: it is part of the industrial strategy. Integrating practical and efficient solutions at every stage of the process makes it possible to improve safety, reliability and performance without compromising final product quality.

by javier

Key machines to improve efficiency in food production lines

In the food industry, precision, speed, and safety are not optional: they are the foundation for guaranteeing quality products, optimising costs, and complying with strict sanitary regulations. Every minute of downtime or every error in the production flow can translate into thousands of euros lost and risks to food traceability.

According to data from the European Food Processing Machinery Association (EFAMA), automation in packaging and processing lines has enabled companies in the sector to reduce unplanned downtime by up to 25%, in addition to improving food safety and resource utilisation.

Within this context, we present some of the most in-demand solutions for optimising lines in the food sector. These are pieces of equipment designed to adapt to the real needs of production, with a focus on efficiency, reliability, and integration into high-cadence environments.

High-Speed Diverters

Intelligent and synchronised flow between multiple lines. High-speed diverters allow for the redistribution of product flow across different lines, ensuring a perfect balancing of the workload and preventing accumulation.

• 1-to-2 DiverterThanks to the use of servomotors, this system achieves synchronisation with conveyor belt speeds of up to 50 m/min, allowing it to divert packages at a rate of up to 30,000 pieces per hour, depending on the product size. This is an ideal solution for high-production packaging and packing processes.
• 2-to-3 DistributorUsing a pneumatic system with control logic, it redistributes products from 2 lanes to 3 outlets in a balanced way. Its automatic counting system ensures that each lane receives the correct quantity, preventing saturation and maintaining line continuity.
• 4-to-2 DistributorDesigned to unify the product flow from four lanes to two lanes, with real-time detection and automatic regulation. This ensures a continuous and synchronised output even when products arrive from different sides of the line.

Main Benefit: These machines maintain fluidity in high-cadence lines, with simple integration into existing infrastructure and without the need for major modifications.

Manual extractor with tray

Versatility and safety in unforeseen stoppages. The manual extractor with tray is a practical solution for the provisional extraction of products during stoppages or maintenance.

• It incorporates a locking system on both sides, guaranteeing stability and safety.
• It prevents product accumulation in the event of unexpected interruptions.
• It does not require tools or power to be used, which allows for quick and effective intervention.

Key Application: It minimises product losses in automatic packaging, canning, or bulk transport processes, ensuring operational continuity.

Product positioner on conveyor

Millimetre precision for automation. In automatic pick-up processes, every millimetre counts. The product positioner on conveyor ensures that packages or products are located in the exact right place to be picked up by robotic systems or manipulators.

• It prevents errors in automatic pick-up.
• It increases the operating speed in packaging and palletising processes.
• It allows for maintaining very tight precision tolerances, reducing rejections.

Key Benefit: Its contribution to advanced automation allows for combining speed with absolute control in product handling.

Hinge-based conveyors

Continuous flow with separation, grouping, and inspection. Hinge-based conveyors are the ideal solution for handling containers such as jars, bottles, or cans.

• They allow for separating products from a single source into multiple parallel lines, where operations like labelling are carried out.
• Subsequently, the products are reunified on a single conveyor to undergo quality controls such as optical inspection.
• Their modular design facilitates integration with existing systems and allows for customised adaptations according to the plant layout.

Key Benefit: They guarantee a stable flow in high-production environments, maintaining demanding quality standards and reducing bottlenecks.

In a sector where every second and every package counts, these solutions—high-speed diverters, manual extractors, product positioners, and hinge-based conveyors—represent the perfect combination of technology, efficiency, and adaptability.

At IFAMAC, we design and adapt each system personally, ensuring integration into demanding production processes and offering measurable results: greater efficiency, less waste, and maximum reliability at every stage of production.

by javier

Precision in industrial dosing: technology that optimises, accuracy that transforms

In the industrial world, where every second counts and every gram of raw material has economic and environmental value, precise material dosing is a strategic necessity. Far from being merely an intermediate step in the production chain, the dosing process defines the quality of the final product, the energy efficiency of the system and the overall sustainability of operations.

According to a study by consultancy firm McKinsey, a 10% improvement in dosing accuracy can result in a reduction of up to 20% in raw material waste. This not only represents significant cost savings, but also directly contributes to reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.

In sectors such as structural ceramics, food processing, the chemical industry or biomass processing, these systems become even more critical. From clays and additives in brick manufacturing to active ingredients in chemical formulations or the dosing of wood chips for biomass boilers, the success of the final product depends directly on the precision of the feeding system.

Why does precise dosing make the difference?

In production environments, dosing errors are one of the main causes of:

• Defective mixtures

• Unnecessary rework

• Product waste

• Additional energy and economic costs

A report by the European Powder Metallurgy Association reveals that in industries processing bulk solids, dosing errors can represent between 5% and 15% of total production costs if not properly controlled.

Correct dosing makes it possible to:

• Obtain homogeneous mixtures

• Reduce waste and raw material overconsumption

• Guarantee final product quality

• Minimise batch-to-batch variations

• Improve process control and traceability

Key technologies: hoppers, rotary valves and load cells

Feeding hoppers

Hoppers are temporary storage units that allow material to be discharged in a controlled manner. They are essential to ensure a continuous and consistent flow to the next stage of the process.

In the structural ceramics industry, they are used to feed mixers with dry clay, sands or additives.
They can be equipped with vibrators, agitators or fluidisation systems to facilitate the flow of cohesive or poorly flowing materials.

Rotary valves

These valves, also known as rotary feeders, allow precise control of the amount of material transferred from one compartment to another without altering the internal pressure of the system.

• Particularly useful in powder-based processes, such as ceramic spray-dried materials

• Reduce leakage losses and improve the safety of closed systems

Load cells

Essential elements of gravimetric systems, load cells allow real-time measurement of the weight of the dosed material.

• In automated lines, they are integrated with PLCs or SCADA systems to correct deviations

• In sectors such as food or pharmaceuticals, they ensure traceability and compliance with standards such as IFS, BRC or GMP

Types of dosing according to application

Volumetric dosing

Based on material volume, without considering actual weight. Suitable for materials with constant bulk density.

• Accuracy: medium

• Advantages: low cost, ideal for low-sensitivity products

• Example: aggregate feeding in ceramic block moulding

Gravimetric dosing

Based on the exact weight of the material. It can operate in loss-in-weight or gain-in-weight mode.

• Accuracy: high (±0.25% to ±1%)

• Advantages: ideal for critical or high-value formulations

• Example: dosing of chemical additives or ceramic pigments

Vibratory systems

Ideal for fragile materials or those with poor flowability. They use vibration to control the flow rate without damaging the product.

• Accuracy: medium

• Advantages: no moving parts in direct contact with the material

• Example: feeding spray-dried material to presses or extruders

Real applications by sector

Structural ceramics industry
Use: dosing of dry clay, non-plastic materials or pigments for bricks and roof tiles.
Objective: homogeneous mixtures and energy efficiency during drying and firing.

Chemical industry
Use: formulation of compounds requiring a high degree of precision.
Objective: maintain exact proportions to prevent unwanted reactions or loss of effectiveness.

Biomass and renewable energy
Use: dosing of pellets, wood chips or vegetable flours in industrial boilers.
Objective: ensure stable combustion, prevent blockages and optimise heat transfer.

Food industry
Use: addition of active ingredients or flavourings.
Objective: ensure regulatory compliance and consistent organoleptic quality.

Economic and environmental impact

Investing in appropriate dosing systems can deliver a return on investment (ROI) in less than 18 months, according to studies by the European Federation of Process Engineering.

In addition:

• Companies that have adopted gravimetric or automated systems have reduced product losses by between 8% and 20%, according to data from the Spanish Association of Industrial Engineering Companies (ANEI).

• Optimised dosing processes are estimated to save up to 12% in energy consumption by avoiding over-processing of incorrect or out-of-specification mixtures.

Precision and sustainability, hand in hand

In an environment where every technical decision impacts competitiveness, quality and sustainability, precise dosing becomes a strategic advantage. Whether through hoppers, rotary valves or load cells, and using volumetric, gravimetric or vibratory technologies, investing in precision is a reliable commitment to the future.

At IFAMAC, we design and implement tailor-made dosing solutions adapted to the real needs of each industry, using robust, efficient and scalable technology.

by javier

How to transport bulk materials vertically in an efficient way?

In many industrial environments —such as ceramics, agri-food, chemical processing or biomass— bulk material handling is a fundamental part of the production chain. When plant layout requires moving product vertically, selecting the right system can make a significant difference in terms of efficiency, safety, maintenance and space optimisation.

One of the most widely used solutions for this task is the bucket elevator, although other viable alternatives also exist depending on the type of material, throughput and required height. In this article, we explain how these systems work, when they should be used and which alternatives may be better suited to each application.

What are bucket elevators and how do they work?

Bucket elevators are mechanical conveying systems designed to lift bulk materials continuously along a vertical or near-vertical path.

How do they work?

The system consists of a series of buckets (metal or plastic containers) mounted on a belt or chain, which runs over two pulleys: a lower pulley (loading point) and an upper pulley (discharge point). As the buckets pass through the lower section, they are filled with material. This material is then transported upwards and discharged at the top either by gravity or by centrifugal force.

Main advantages:

• Space optimisation: they allow large volumes to be conveyed vertically, saving valuable floor space.

• Continuous efficiency: designed for 24/7 operation with stable material flow.

• Material versatility: suitable for dry, granular and powdery materials, and even sticky products with specific adaptations.

• Low mechanical wear compared to other vertical conveying solutions.

Types of bucket elevators according to application

• Centrifugal discharge elevators: material is discharged by centrifugal force at the head pulley. They operate at higher speeds and are suitable for dry, free-flowing materials.

• Gravity or positive discharge elevators: material is discharged by gravity as the bucket passes over the head pulley. These are used for fragile or sticky products where breakage or build-up must be avoided.

• Continuous discharge bucket elevators: recommended for high capacities, as they allow smooth, uninterrupted discharge.

Alternatives for vertical bulk material transport

Although bucket elevators are the standard solution, other options may be more suitable depending on the material, environment or maintenance requirements.

Vertical screw conveyors

Vertical screw conveyors are a very compact solution for lifting materials over short to medium distances (typically up to 8–10 metres, although special designs can exceed this).

Advantages:

• Compact, enclosed design, ideal for space-restricted plants or where material containment is required.

• Well suited for fine to medium particle sizes, such as spray-dried clay, flours, ceramic powders or homogeneous dry mixes.

• No external moving parts, reducing the risk of entanglement or external damage.

Technical considerations:

• Higher energy consumption compared to bucket elevators due to constant vertical pushing.

• Increased wear when handling abrasive materials; hard-facing or reinforced screws are recommended.

• Not suitable for very wet or sticky materials, which tend to accumulate on the screw.

Inclined belt conveyors with cleats

These systems use an inclined continuous belt fitted with cleats or open buckets to convey material more gently than traditional elevators. They are suitable when impacts, compaction or product loss must be avoided.

Advantages:

• Very effective for wet materials, plastic clays or sticky products that do not flow well in enclosed systems.

• Reduced compaction or crushing, helping to preserve material texture or composition.

Technical considerations:

• Require more longitudinal space due to belt inclination.

• Generally operate at lower speeds than other vertical systems.

• Require constant belt tensioning and guiding, resulting in more frequent maintenance.

Practical industrial applications

Ceramic industry
In brick or ceramic tile plants, bucket elevators are used to lift dry or spray-dried clay from silos to dosing or mixing hoppers. Their enclosed design prevents dust generation and improves cleanliness.

Agri-industry
In grain handling facilities, elevators transport cereals between screening, drying and storage areas without damaging the product. Their controlled discharge and adjustable speed make them ideal for sensitive materials.

Biomass and industrial boilers
To feed boilers with pellets, wood chips or dry sawdust, elevators transport fuel vertically from reception or storage areas to feeding hoppers, often combined with dosing and flow control systems.

Vertical bulk material transport is a technical challenge that can be solved efficiently by selecting the appropriate system. Bucket elevators remain the most versatile and robust option in most industrial environments, while alternatives such as vertical screw conveyors or pneumatic systems may be optimal for specific applications.

Evaluating material properties, required capacity, lifting height and operating conditions is essential to ensure a durable, safe and cost-effective installation.

Are you considering optimising your material handling system? Consulting with process engineering experts can help you make the best decision.

by javier

Biomass storage, conveying and feeding systems for steam boilers

In the current context of energy transition and industrial sustainability, biomass is emerging as one of the most promising renewable energy sources for thermal energy generation. Its application in steam boilers not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels but also enables the efficient use of organic waste. For this process to operate correctly, it is essential to have a well-integrated system covering everything from storage to fuel feeding. In this article, we take an in-depth look at the different biomass storage, conveying and feeding systems for steam boilers, as well as the latest technologies and the benefits of their implementation.

Biomass and steam boilers: an efficient and sustainable combination

Biomass, made up of organic materials such as wood chips, pellets, agricultural or forestry residues, is an energy source with a neutral CO₂ emissions balance. Its use in steam boilers enables clean thermal energy generation and is particularly suitable for industrial sectors requiring large amounts of steam, such as agri-food, paper, chemical or ceramic industries.

According to the Bioenergy Europe report (2024), the use of biomass for heat generation accounts for 60% of renewable energy consumption in European industry, and is expected to grow by 35% by 2030. This growth requires efficient solutions for biomass handling, particularly in terms of storage, transport and automatic feeding to boilers.

1. Efficient biomass storage

Proper biomass storage is essential to ensure a continuous and safe fuel supply to the boiler. The choice of system depends on the type of biomass (particle size, moisture content, density) and daily consumption volume.

Biomass travelling floor (scraper system)

One of the most versatile solutions is the biomass travelling floor system, which fulfils a dual function. On the one hand, it acts as a temporary linear storage system, facilitating biomass unloading from trucks; on the other hand, it enables progressive feeding of the conveying system towards the boiler. Its longitudinal and transversal movement ensures a constant feed rate and prevents material compaction.

2. Internal conveying: efficiency and cleanliness in material flow

Once stored, biomass must be conveyed to the feeding point in a continuous, safe and loss-free manner.

Redler chain conveyors

Redler-type chain conveyors are particularly suitable for handling shredded, moist or difficult-to-handle biomass. They operate using scraper flights inside a closed casing, ensuring clean, dust-tight and safe conveying, even in environments with dust or sludge. Their design allows operation in horizontal layouts or with slight inclinations, making them ideal for installations with limited space.

3. Controlled feeding to the boiler

The final step, and one of the most critical, is the precise and constant feeding of biomass into the steam boiler. The stability of the thermal process depends directly on this stage.

Screw conveyors

Screw conveyors are the preferred solution for metered biomass feeding to boilers. They allow accurate control of the feed rate, improving combustion efficiency and reducing the risk of operational failures. In thermal applications, they can be equipped with cooling jackets, preventing overheating of the metal structure and extending service life.

Thanks to their construction in carbon steel or stainless steel, they offer high resistance to wear and corrosion, adapting to both dry and wet biomass.

Benefits of an integrated and automated system

Implementing automated biomass storage, conveying and feeding systems using the equipment described above offers key advantages:

• Operational continuity: ensures a constant fuel flow without interruptions.

• Safety: prevents dangerous build-ups, overloads or material leaks.

• Energy optimisation: stable feeding improves combustion efficiency and reduces fuel consumption.

• Reduced maintenance: robust designs adapted to biomass characteristics minimise downtime and operating costs.

In addition, these systems can be integrated with level, temperature and moisture sensors, as well as remote monitoring platforms, enabling intelligent management of the thermal process.

Towards a real energy transition

The installation of biomass boilers and their auxiliary systems represents a strong commitment to industrial decarbonisation. In Spain, for example, this technology has been included in funding programmes such as the PERTE for Renewable Energies and the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.

Having a well-designed feeding system not only improves investment profitability but also directly contributes to sustainability and energy efficiency objectives required by European regulations (RED II Directive and EU Taxonomy Regulation).

The future of thermal energy lies in clean, efficient technologies adapted to each industry. Along this path, biomass and steam boilers play a key role. However, their effectiveness depends on more than just the fuel: storage, conveying and feeding systems must be perfectly designed and integrated. Investing in specialised and customised solutions is undoubtedly the first step towards a more responsible and sustainable energy model.

by javier