Materials Handling


desired sub-micron particles. As the suspension is processed by the final device(s) the number and average size of coarse agglomerates decreases, whereas the number of ‘fines’ increases.


Fig. 3. Using specialist equipment, DOMINO is able to assess the nanoparticle suspension and the degree of agglomeration pre- and post-final dispersion.


DOMINO has been working on these processes to prepare design procedures and recommendations relevant to industrial applications. In parallel to the experimental programme, numerical modelling is performed to provide a better insight in terms of the flow through various process devices and also to develop a predictive tool for the deagglomeration process. Fig. 4 gives an overview of the scope of work undertaken within DOMINO. The evolution of particle size distribution, dispersion rheology, and morphology of nanoparticle clusters provide information in terms of the mechanisms and kinetics of break up or delamination with different process devices and under different operating conditions. These are complemented with information obtained from numerical


Fig. 4. An overview of the scope of work undertaken within DOMINO.


modelling and recommendations for design and equipment selection. This collaborative model practiced within BHR Group for


decades has allowed research findings find their way quickly to industrial practice rather than being confined to reports and other publications. ■


For more information ✔ at www.engineerlive.com/epe Dr Gul Ozcan-Taskin is with VirtualPiE Ltd (trading as BHR


Group) The Fluid Engineering Centre Cranfield, Bedfordshire, UK. www.bhrgroup.com


REFERENCE: Özcan-Taskin, N G, et al, Effect of particle type on the mechanisms of break up of nanoscale particle clusters, Chem Eng Res Des (2009), doi:10.1016/j.cherd.2008.12.012


Huge potential for European companies despite competition from Asia


I


ncreasing manufacturing costs, a surge in the number of Mergers & Acquisitions from Asian companies, a complex and biased road to market, and a significant improvement of innovation capabilities in Asia are the new challenges that European businesses are facing in Asia and on their own soil. However, the potential for EU companies in Asia remains huge. A new insight by Frost & Sullivan reveals what


European industry leaders can expect in the future regarding their relationship with the Asian market and Asian companies, and how they should prepare for likely changes. In Asia, European companies can sell high- value products to a large population that is getting richer. “Chinese children born in 2009 are likely to consume approximately 38 times more than their grandparents during their lives,” says Frost & Sullivan consultant, Nicolas Smolarski. They


28 www.engineerlive.com


can also tap into the large reserve of low-wage workers in the ASEAN region. Mr Smolarski explains: “Whether they are


competing with Asian players in Europe, sourcing products manufactured in Asia or selling to the Asian market, European firms need to put in place functional strategies backed by in-depth local market knowledge, field experience and upfront analysis. Only the best prepared ones will be able to defend their ground and benefit from Asia’s formidable value.” As mentioned, several challenging trends


for these European companies have emerged. Asian innovations have significantly improved. Furthermore, mergers and acquisitions by Asian companies in Europe have surged over recent years, with Chinese investment in 2011 reaching $12 billion, accounting for a 24 per cent increase since 2010.


At the same time, between 2010 and 2012, Europeans cut investments in China by 42.5 per cent because of increasing labour costs (15-20 per cent in China annually) and volatile shipping costs. “Manufacturing in Asia can be risky and is


expected to become more expensive, however, there are alternatives that can help lower costs and reduce risks,” Smolarski says. To succeed among the rising labour costs


and uncertain legal framework, businesses need a deeper understanding of the Asian companies they source. Smolarski says: “This will help European


companies gain confidence on the production process, quality management, warranty details, real costs and after-sales support in Europe.” ■


For more information, visit http://frost.com


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