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The Versatile BlowVac

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When we hear the term BlowVac, the image of a very specific truck mounted vacuum loader comes to mind. Most users associate with BlowVac a large four- axle truck with high suction power and the possibility to pressure discharge the suction material with a blowing device. Gerd Borrmann, Export Manager, Wieland Lufttechnik, tells us that there is more to it.

First of all, BlowVac stands for high-powered suction units with large collection containers which are usually mounted onto truck chassis. However, in some cases BlowVac units can also be mounted onto trailers, semi-trailers or hook lifter frames. All units have the following in common: the vacuum pump is located in the front part of the unit and is driven either by a split shaft system or by a separate diesel engine. Behind it is the collection container with the main filter. The collection containers of the various BlowVac types are always large enough to be able to work without intercept hoppers. After all, the smallest container has a collection capacity of 4.9 m¦. Another similarity is that the collection containers of all types can be tipped hydraulically to discharge the suction material. Then where are the differences? For one, the differences lie in the suction units. Eight different units are available as part of the standard programme. Additionally, for special Atex applications electrically driven units are available. For BlowVacs with very high suction power, the TG suction unit makes the most sense. TG stands for split shaft box (TrennGetriebe in German). This box is installed into the driveshaft of the truck. The operator can switch over from driving mode to suction mode. The vacuum pump is then driven by the truck engine. This has the advantage that a separate diesel engine to drive the vacuum pump is not required. But there is an additional advantage: By using the gear box of the truck, the operator can vary the speed of the vacuum pump over a large range of rotational speed. This is important when using the blowing device to discharge the suction material. For this, it is required to reduce the speed of rotation of the vacuum pump to a minimum. As the design with a split shaft box is only cost effective for high-powered suction units, we have only one TG unit which is used for the largest BlowVacs. This unit disposes of an air flow of 8200 m¦/h and a maximum vacuum of 80%.

For applications where lower suction power is sufficient or if the customer explicitly demands a separate diesel engine, the company has a large range of diesel units with engines from 42 kW to 261 kW. This corresponds to a suction power from 2100 m³/hand 50% vacuum to 8200 m³/h and 80% vacuum. The TG unit and the diesel units can be combined with three different types of containers with the following denominations: BlowVac Conic, BlowVac SL and BlowVac BigBag.

BlowVac Conic

BlowVac Conic units are the most basic and most economic types. They have a relatively small collection container with a conical taper at the rear and a discharge door with a diameter of 1000 mm. BlowVac Conic units can be equipped with a blowing device to pressure discharge the suction material into silos, into pits or onto roofs. Another possibility is to discharge the suction material by gravity onto the ground or into low open containers. It is not possible to discharge into BigBags or into skip hoppers. Due to their robust, simple design BlowVac Conic units are primarily suitable for bulk material with good separation and discharge characteristics. Vacuum extraction of liquids is not possible with this type of unit. In theory, Conic containers can be combined with large suction units with 6000 m¦/h air flow or more. However, in practice this does not make sense as the simple, cost effective Conic container does not match large suction units which are complex and costly. Consequently, the company has made available BlowVac Conic units with a maximum air flow of 3700 m¦/h. Mostly, they are mounted on two axle trucks with a permissible total weight of 18 tons or alternatively on two axle trailers or hook lifter frames. Frequently, the users choose the optional blowing device. If this is the case, the unit with 3200 m¦/h delivers the best performance. This unit carries the denomination BlowVac Conic 3200 Diesel.

BlowVac SL

BlowVac SL represents the classic BlowVac with large discharge door, i.e, without conical taper at the rear. This is the standard solution for industrial cleaning contractors who require a unit to cover all possible applications. The SL container is extremely robust and disposes of a high-grade filter system for critical suction materials. The large discharge door has the advantage that sticky suction material like wet sand or viscous sludge can be safely discharged. Furthermore, the unit can be equipped to extract and transport liquids. Due to the low edge for tipping discharge, the suction material can only be dumped onto the ground. Usually customers order the sophisticated SL blowing device which achieves unique pressure discharge performances. In most cases customers who require an SL, take the largest possible unit which would be the BlowVac SL 8200 TG. This is the unit with the split shaft box. Smaller versions for three axle trucks with 4000 or 6000 m¦/h are available but are not frequently built. SL units cannot be mounted onto trailers or hook lifter frames.

BlowVac BigBag

BlowVac BigBag, finally, is the premium but also the most versatile member of the BlowVac family. It can only be mounted onto truck chassis and is also usually ordered with the split shaft suction unit with 8200 m¦/h air flow and 80% vacuum for four axle trucks. However, in contrast to the SL, the BlowVac BigBag 8200 TG can also be mounted onto three axle trucks. Compared to the SL, the BigBag has several advantages, the most import being the high discharge height of 1.7 m. This and the conical taper at the rear with its DN 300 hydraulic discharge slide gate make it possible to empty the suction material into BigBags. This represents a dust free form of material discharge which is frequently required for toxic types of suction material. Additionally, the rear part of the taper can also be opened hydraulically, thus creating a discharge opening of 1000 mm at a height of 1.7 m. This makes it possible to dump the suction material into high containers – an enormous advantage, especially for urban applications. Another important practical advantage is the large loading platform under the collection container. Here, the operator can load at normal loading height approximately 120 m of flexible hoses and suction tools. A separate trailer for hoses is in most cases not required. The blowing device is as efficient as the one of BlowVac SL.

For example, gravel can easily be blown onto roofs with a height of 50 m. The only disadvantage compared to the SL: collection capacity is reduced due to the conical collection container. In practice this means that the BlowVac BigBag possesses approximately 10 m¦ of real collection capacity compared to 11.5 m³ of the SL.

Wieland Lufttechnik offers a large variety of customised solutions, especially for explosion protection requirements with all the standard options. This makes the BlowVac systems extremely comprehensive and versatile with a wide range of compact units for specific applications.

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Economy & Market

Power Build’s Core Gear Series

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A deep dive into Core Gear Series of products M, C, F and K, by Power Build, and how they represent precision in motion.

At the heart of every high-performance industrial system lies the need for robust, reliable, and efficient power transmission. Power Build answers this need with its flagship geared motor series: M, C, F and K. Each series is meticulously engineered to serve specific operational demands while maintaining the universal promise of durability, efficiency, and performance.

Series M – Helical Inline Geared Motors
Compact and powerful, the Series M delivers exceptional drive solutions for a broad range of applications. With power handling up to 160kW and torque capacity reaching 20,000 Nm, it is the trusted solution for industries requiring quiet operation, high efficiency, and space-saving design. Series M is available with multiple mounting and motor options, making it a versatile choice for manufacturers and OEMs globally.

Series C – Right Angled Heli-Worm Geared Motors
Combining the benefits of helical and worm gearing, the Series C is designed for right-angled power transmission. With gear ratios of up to 16,000:1 and torque capacities of up to 10,000 Nm, this series is optimal for applications demanding precision in compact spaces. Industries looking for a smooth, low-noise operation with maximum torque efficiency rely on Series C for dependable performance.

Series F – Parallel Shaft Mounted Geared Motors
Built for endurance in the most demanding environments, Series F is widely adopted in steel plants, hoists, cranes and heavy-duty conveyors. Offering torque up to 10,000 Nm and high gear ratios up to 20,000:1, this product features an integral torque arm and diverse output configurations to meet industry-specific challenges head-on.

Series K – Right Angle Helical Bevel Geared Motors
For industries seeking high efficiency and torque-heavy performance, Series K is the answer. This right-angled geared motor series delivers torque up to 50,000 Nm, making it a preferred choice in core infrastructure sectors such as cement, power, mining and material handling. Its flexibility in mounting and broad motor options offer engineers the freedom in design and reliability in execution.
Together, these four series reflect Power Build’s commitment to excellence in mechanical power transmission. From compact inline designs to robust right-angle drives, each geared motor is a result of decades of engineering innovation, customer-focused design and field-tested reliability. Whether the requirement is speed control, torque multiplication or space efficiency, Radicon’s Series M, C, F and K stand as trusted powerhouses for global industries.

http://www.powerbuild.in
Call: +919727719344

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Economy & Market

Conveyor belts are a vital link in the supply chain

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Kamlesh Jain, Managing Director, Elastocon, discusses how the brand delivers high-performance, customised conveyor belt solutions for demanding industries like cement, mining, and logistics, while embracing innovation, automation, and sustainability.

In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, efficient material handling isn’t just a necessity—it’s a competitive advantage. As industries such as mining, cement, steel and logistics push for higher productivity, automation, and sustainability, the humble conveyor belt has taken on a mission-critical role. In this exclusive interview, Kamlesh Jain, Managing Director, Elastocon, discusses how the company is innovating for tougher terrains, smarter systems and a greener tomorrow.

Brief us about your company – in terms of its offerings, manufacturing facilities, and the key end-user industries it serves.
Elastocon, a flagship brand of the Royal Group, is a trusted name in the conveyor belt manufacturing industry. Under the brand name ELASTOCON, the company produces both open-end and endless belts, offering tailor-made solutions to some of the most demanding sectors such as cement, steel, power, mining, fertiliser, and logistics. Every belt is meticulously engineered—from fabric selection to material composition—to ensure optimal performance in tough working conditions. With advanced manufacturing facilities and strict quality protocols, Elastocon continues to deliver high-performance conveyor solutions designed for durability, safety, and efficiency.

How is the group addressing the needs for efficient material handling?
Efficient material handling is the backbone of any industrial operation. At Elastocon, our engineering philosophy revolves around creating belts that deliver consistent performance, long operational life, and minimal maintenance. We focus on key performance parameters such as tensile strength, abrasion resistance, tear strength, and low elongation at working tension. Our belts are designed to offer superior bonding between plies and covers, which directly impacts their life and reliability. We also support clients
with maintenance manuals and technical advice, helping them improve their system’s productivity and reduce downtime.

How critical are conveyor belts in ensuring seamless material handling?
Conveyor belts are a vital link in the supply chain across industries. In sectors like mining, cement, steel, and logistics, they facilitate the efficient movement of materials and help maintain uninterrupted production flows. At Elastocon, we recognise the crucial role of belts in minimising breakdowns and increasing plant uptime. Our belts are built to endure abrasive, high-temperature, or high-load environments. We also advocate proper system maintenance, including correct belt storage, jointing, roller alignment, and idler checks, to ensure smooth and centered belt movement, reducing operational interruptions.

What are the key market and demand drivers for the conveyor belt industry?
The growth of the conveyor belt industry is closely tied to infrastructure development, increased automation, and the push for higher operational efficiency. As industries strive to reduce labor dependency and improve productivity, there is a growing demand for advanced material handling systems. Customers today seek not just reliability, but also cost-effectiveness and technical superiority in the belts they choose. Enhanced product aesthetics and innovation in design are also becoming significant differentiators. These trends are pushing manufacturers to evolve continuously, and Elastocon is leading the way with customer-centric product development.

How does Elastocon address the diverse and evolving requirements of these sectors?
Our strength lies in offering a broad and technically advanced product portfolio that serves various industries. For general-purpose applications, our M24 and DINX/W grade belts offer excellent abrasion resistance, especially for RMHS and cement plants. For high-temperature operations, we provide HR and SHR T2 grade belts, as well as our flagship PYROCON and PYROKING belts, which can withstand extreme heat—up to 250°C continuous and even 400°C peak—thanks to advanced EPM polymers.
We also cater to sectors with specialised needs. For fire-prone environments like underground mining, we offer fire-resistant belts certified to IS 1891 Part V, ISO 340, and MSHA standards. Our OR-grade belts are designed for oil and chemical resistance, making them ideal for fertiliser and chemical industries. In high-moisture applications like food and agriculture, our MR-grade belts ensure optimal performance. This diverse range enables us to meet customer-specific challenges with precision and efficiency.

What core advantages does Elastocon offer that differentiate it from competitors?
Elastocon stands out due to its deep commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Every belt is customised to the client’s requirements, supported by a strong R&D foundation that keeps us aligned with global standards and trends. Our customer support doesn’t end at product delivery—we provide ongoing technical assistance and after-sales service that help clients maximise the value of their investments. Moreover, our focus on compliance and certifications ensures our belts meet stringent national and international safety and performance standards, giving customers added confidence.

How is Elastocon gearing up to meet its customers’ evolving needs?
We are conscious of the shift towards greener and smarter manufacturing practices. Elastocon is embracing sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient manufacturing techniques. In parallel, we are developing belts that seamlessly integrate with automated systems and smart industrial platforms. Our vision is to make our products not just high-performing but also future-ready—aligned with global sustainability goals and compatible with emerging technologies in industrial automation and predictive maintenance.

What trends do you foresee shaping the future of the conveyor belt industry?
The conveyor belt industry is undergoing a significant transformation. As Industry 4.0 principles gain traction, we expect to see widespread adoption of smart belts equipped with sensors for real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. The demand for recyclable materials and sustainable designs will continue to grow. Furthermore, industry-specific customisation will increasingly replace standardisation, and belts will be expected to do more than just transport material—they will be integrated into intelligent production systems. Elastocon is already investing in these future-focused areas to stay ahead of the curve.

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Economy & Market

Impactful Branding

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Advertising or branding is never about driving sales. It’s about creating brand awareness and recall. It’s about conveying the core values of your brand to your consumers. In this context, why is branding important for cement companies? As far as the customers are concerned cement is simply cement. It is precisely for this reason that branding, marketing and advertising of cement becomes crucial. Since the customer is unable to differentiate between the shades of grey, the onus of creating this awareness is carried by the brands. That explains the heavy marketing budgets, celebrity-centric commercials, emotion-invoking taglines and campaigns enunciating the many benefits of their offerings.
Marketing strategies of cement companies have undergone gradual transformation owing to the change in consumer behaviour. While TV commercials are high on humour and emotions to establish a fast connect with the customer, social media campaigns are focussed more on capturing the consumer’s attention in an over-crowded virtual world. Branding for cement companies has become a holistic growth strategy with quantifiable results. This has made brands opt for a mix package of traditional and new-age tools, such as social media. However, the hero of every marketing communication is the message, which encapsulates the unique selling points of the product. That after all is crux of the matter here.
While cement companies are effectively using marketing tools to reach out to the consumers, they need to strengthen the four Cs of the branding process – Consumer, Cost, Communication and Convenience. Putting up the right message, at the right time and at the right place for the right kind of customer demographic is of utmost importance in the long run. It is precisely for this reason that regional players are likely to have an upper hand as they rely on local language and cultural references to drive home the point. But modern marketing and branding domain is exponentially growing and it would be an interesting exercise to tabulate and analyse its impact on branding for cement.

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