Docking station for intermediate bulk container (ibc)

Streamline your metal powder management by efficiently connecting and disconnecting IBC containers, ensuring a dust-free environment and precise material handling in additive manufacturing processes.

Docks, Seals, and Conveys Metal Powders

The vDock from Volkmann provides an efficient solution for docking IBC containers in vacuum conveying systems, specifically tailored for additive manufacturing environments. Utilizing the innovative VIAS docking valve, it enables dust-free connection and disconnection, ensuring minimal powder exposure during the handling of metal powders essential for 3D printing. Designed to operate under various conditions, including inert gas environments, it supports precise material transfer with options like integrated weighing cells for accurate dosing and filling. The vDock’s compatibility with ATEX standards makes it versatile across industries requiring stringent safety requirements. Its compact design, constructed from anodized aluminum or stainless steel, ensures durability and easy maintenance. With seamless integration capabilities for continuous or manual operations, the vDock optimizes the conveyance of powders and granules, maintaining efficiency across diverse production lines.

Benefits

  • Ensures clean and safe material transfer with dust-free docking and undocking.
  • Enhances precision in dosing and filling with integrated weighing capabilities.
  • Adaptable to hazardous environments through ATEX-compliant design.
  • Reduces operator intervention with automatic adjustment for container misalignment.
  • Maintains high product purity with hermetic sealing during transport.

General


Applications
3d printing materials,Additive manufacturing,Metal powders
End products
Nickel alloy 3d manufactured products,Titanium powder components,Metal 3d printing parts,Stainless steel 3d printed objects,Aluminum alloy 3d structures
Steps before
IBCs placement,Forklift loading,Gas flushing,Container weighing
Steps after
Dust-free undocking,Partial emptying,Hermetic sealing
Input ingredients
IBC container,metal powders,fresh powder,intermediate bulk containers,3D printing materials,additive manufacturing materials
Output ingredients
powder,granulate,dust-free output,conveyed powders,vacuum conveyed materials
Market info
Volkmann is known for manufacturing vacuum conveying systems, specializing in pneumatic conveying of bulk materials. Their reputation for innovative and reliable equipment solutions in various industries positions them as a trusted provider for engineered-to-order material handling systems.

Technical Specifications


Automation
Independent VIAS docking valve control
Capacity
Connects up to 6 vacuum conveying systems
Dust-free Connection
Yes,with VIAS docking valve
Hermetic Seal
Ensures powder does not escape
Inert Gas Operation
Nitrogen or argon
Material Construction
Anodised aluminium or stainless steel
Compact Size
115 mm height without hexapod compensator
Operating Pressure
5-7 bar
Docking Time
Quick docking with hexapod mounting
Weighing Option
Optional weighing cells for precise weighing
Partial Emptying
Yes,using the VIAS valve
Disassembly Time
Complete disassembly in 5 minutes
Application
Metal powders in additive manufacturing
Docking Valve Material
Anodised aluminium or stainless steel
Connection Size
4″ TC (DIN 32676-C)

Operating Characteristics


Automation level
Manual / Automatic
Batch vs. continuous operation
Batch / Continuous
Changeover time
Quick-connect design
CIP/SIP
CIP compatible
Energy efficiency
Optimized for low consumption
Air incorporation control
Minimizes air exposure during transfer
Automation level
PLC-controlled with optional SCADA integration

Material Compatibility


Density/particle size
0.5–2.5 g/cm³ / 50–1000 µm

Physical Characteristics


Compact footprint
115 mm height
Discharge method
Dust-free connection via VIAS docking valve
Control panel type
External release signal for valve control
Container compatibility
IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container)
Operation under inert gas
N2 or Argon
Customization
Design and size tailored to customer's IBC
Coupling system
VIAS valve with hexapod mounting

Custom Options


Distributor option
Up to 6 conveying lines
Gas operation mode
Inert gas (e.g. N2,Argon)
Design customization
Tailored to IBC size
Filling option
Controlled by cone valve or VIAS docking valve
Hexapod mounting
Compensates for inaccurate IBC positioning