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Bates, L.: Glossary of Terms in Powder and Bulk Technology

 

Introduction

The field of particle technology embraces many disciplines, yet does not fall within the domain of any specific professional body such as mechanical or chemical engineering. It has also emerged comparatively recently as a distinct technology, with rigorous measuring tools for quantifying flow related properties and other behavioural aspects in handling and process plant. As a consequence of a lack of recognition of the subject as an established format with major industrial implications, education in the subject has been impeded by minuscule coverage within most university syllabuses. This approach tends to be reinforced by wide acceptance of empirical maturity by some industries in which the technology is applicable and the paucity of quality textbooks available to address the scope and value of the subject.

The British Materials Handling Board perceived the need for a Dictionary of Terms in Particle Technology as an introductory tool for non-specialists and students in this subject. Co-incidentally, a draft of a Glossary of Terms in Particulate Solids was in compilation. This concept originated as a project of the Working Part for the Mechanics of Particulate Solids, in support of a web site initiative of the European Federation of Chemical Engineers. The Working Party decided to confine the glossary on the EFCE web site to terms relating to bulk storage and flow, and relevant powder testing. Lyn Bates*, the UK industrial representative to the WPMPS leading this Glossary task force, decided to extend this work to cover broader aspects of particle and bulk technology and the BMHB arranged to publish this document as a contribution to the dissemination of information in this important field.

The value of the Glossary is seen as being particularly useful to newcomers to this extensive subject. Explanations are provided for key terms in the various sections that merit a deeper appreciation than a strict basic definition. Suggestions are included for preferred terms that eliminate ambiguity or misinterpretation. A universality of expressions for use in technical documents and publications is also an implicit aim. It is inevitable that within the range of terms included will be some that merit a more comprehensive or different description, and undoubtedly a formidable number of exclusions that would enhance the list. The publishers are not responsibility for any errors, omissions or statements made in this publication. The information is presented for information only and not intended for action without independent substantiating investigation on the part of a potential user. The definitions are presented by the author and not necessarily endorsed by the British Materials Handling Board or its publishers.

This publication is copyright under the Berne Convention and the International Copyright Convention. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright, Deigns and Patent Act, 1988, no part may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically, electrical, chemical, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owners. Unlicensed multiple copying of the contents of this publication is illegal. Enquiries should be addressed to: - The Secretary, British Materials Handling Board, 14 Moss Manor, The Avenue, Sale, Cheshire. M33

The work is dedicated to C.K. Andrews, who lit the path of professionalism for the author.

* Other books by Lyn Bates include:- ' User guide to Segregation ' , published by BMHB and
' Guide to the Design, Selection and Application of Screw feeders ' published by the I.Mech.E.

British Materials Handling Board -Glossary of Terms in Powder and Bulk Technology.

 

 


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