MANHATTAN, KANSAS, U.S. — Kansas State University (KSU) is planning a Bulk Solids Handling, Storage and Flow course for Nov. 11-14, in Manhattan, Kansas, U.S. This course will benefit individuals who are responsible for handling and processing bulk solids in the grain, feed, biofuels, food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

"Currently, the grain and powder industry, from flour milling, to biofuels, to pharmaceutical companies, lack of opportunity for continuing education in the technical areas that involves handling and processing bulk solids. I believe this course will benefit the industry, and will allow participants to fortify their skills," said Carlos Campabadal, program specialist in grain storage and feed manufacturing at the International Grains Program at KSU.

The course focuses on handling, transportation and storage technologies and methods, and common bulk solids flow problems. Participants will learn about the science and engineering of bulk solids from KSU, other universities like Purdue, and industry experts (Kice, Vortex, Freeman Technology, DEM Solutions, and Fike) in practical classroom and hands-on sessions. Bulk solids handling and flow equipment located in the state of the art Hal Ross Flour Mill and O.H. Kruse Feed Technology Innovation Center and the newest powder characterization technologies available in the Bulk Solids and Particle Technology Research Laboratory will be utilized for teaching. The course will also include an on-site visit to a bulk solids handling equipment manufacturer.

Course Instructor Kingsly Ambrose said, "This initiative, started in collaboration with industry and academic experts, will focus on understanding the bulk and particle characteristics of granular materials and will help in delivering a uniform granular product to the consumer." 

With his current experimental research and modeling approaches, Ambrose is focused on developing practical solutions to bulk solids handling issues faced by the industry. His current research areas include, milling technologies, process simulation, handling techniques for solids with caking potential, grain dust explosions, and characterization of powders for their particle and flow characteristics.

"This new course is an exciting opportunity to expand our continuing education offerings in partnership with the bulk solids industry," said Dirk Maier, department head of Grain Science and Industry and director of the International Grains Program. "The investment the bulk solids industry has made in our facilities and programs, and the faculty expertise we have on-board at K-State, make for a winning public-private partnership effort."

To register for the course, visit www.igpevents.grains.ksu.edu.