Solids Solutions: specialist in powder and particle technology

Solids Solutions, also known as Delft Solids Solutions, has been a leading contract research organisation (CRO) for decades, focusing on the physical characterisation of solids — particularly powders and granules — and solving challenges related to the transport, storage and processing of powder materials. Their expertise spans multiple technologies, material properties and industrial sectors, and they offer not only measurement services but also consultancy, training and process optimisation. In this article, we delve into what Solids Solutions does exactly, with a focus on two crucial themes: the powder flow analyser and the phenomenon of powder agglomeration.

About Solids Solutions: core activities and role in the industry

Delft Solids Solutions is often described as an expert in powder and particle technology, with more than 40 years of experience in characterising (bulk) powders, porosity, particle size and shape, and the behaviour of powders under different conditions. Their customers come from the pharmaceutical, chemical, building materials, food and automotive industries. 

Solids Solutions’ approach is flexible and tailor-made: projects are often carried out under conditions that closely resemble the intended application of the powder material. Thanks to a modern workshop, special test setups can be developed or adapted. Reporting protocols generally follow strict guidelines, including ISO 17025, which guarantees the reliability and traceability of the results. 

Since 2020, Solids Solutions has been integrated into the larger Hosokawa-Alpine network: the acquisition has resulted in broader positioning in mechanical process engineering and bulk solids handling. This enables the company to provide not only characterisation services, but also complete solutions for the design and optimisation of powder processes. 

Their services include:

• Physical characterisation (porosity, surface area, density)
• Particle size and shape analysis
• Behaviour measurements of powders in transport or storage conditions
• Problem solving and troubleshooting in powder processes
• Consultancy, education, courses, seminars in powder technology 

The role and operation of a powder flow analyser

One of the key instruments in Solids Solutions’ arsenal is the powder flow analyser. This measures and analyses the inflow, flow, speed and uniformity of powder transport — crucial in technical processes where consistency and reliability of powder transport are essential.

Why use a powder flow analyser?

In industrial processes, the behaviour of powders during transport (e.g. through pipes, conduits or sluices) can have a major impact on quality, efficiency and operational stability. Incorrect flow can lead to blockages, fluctuations, product loss or even safety risks. A powder flow analyser helps to identify these risks and implement optimisations.

Operation and measurement principles

A powder flow analyser measures parameters such as flow rate, pressure drop, particle concentration, turbulence or dispersion in powder transport. Sensors, pressure measurements, optical methods or electrical conductivity techniques are often used to detect variations in the flow. By linking this data to experimental settings, the optimum speed, pipe diameter or control can be determined.

Applications

For Solids Solutions, a powder flow analyser is used, for example, in R&D projects in which new materials or formulations are tested. The analysis module can also offer a solution to process issues, such as analysing a transport problem in a factory setup. Based on the results, adjustments to equipment, pipes or process parameters can be recommended and validated.

What is powder caking and how does it affect powder processes?

The term powder caking refers to the clumping or agglomerating of individual particles into larger clusters. This phenomenon can occur under the influence of moisture, electrostatic forces, mechanical pressure or chemical bonding. Powder caking is often undesirable in fine powder applications, as it compromises flow, fluidity, homogeneity and processability.

Causes of powder caking

• Moisture: water vapour or moisture adsorption can cause particles to stick together.
• Electrostatic charge: charge build-up can cause attraction between particles, especially in dry environments.
• Mechanical impact or compression: high pressure or shocks can compress particles into clusters.
• Chemical bonding or coating: adhesives, binders or reactive surfaces can promote agglomeration.

Effects on process and quality

Powder caking can have serious adverse effects:

• Reduced free flowability, leading to blockages or irregular doses
• Poorer mixing quality — mixed batches may be uneven
• Difficulties in reopening or loosening the particles during use
• Reduced product quality, for example when concentrations or distributions become unbalanced

How Solids Solutions deals with powder caking

Solids Solutions often conducts experiments and simulations to determine the sensitivity of a powder material to agglomeration. Moisture balance measurements, adhesion measurements, triboelectric analyses and mechanical testing are used to determine the conditions under which powder caking occurs. Measures can then be proposed, such as optimising drying conditions, antistatic treatments, the use of dispersants or adjustments to the processing speed to minimise agglomeration.