Merrell Bros. Awarded Groundbreaking Patent for Double Drum Systems in Biosolids Conversion
Innovative Technology Set to Revolutionize Waste Management by Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability
July 22, 2024 – Kokomo, IN – Merrell Bros., a leader in environmental solutions and waste management, proudly announces the recent issuance of US Patent 11,999,668 for its innovative “Double Drum Systems and Processes for Converting Biosolids to Fertilizer.” This patent marks a significant advancement in the efficient processing and conversion of biosolids into valuable fertilizer.
Revolutionizing Waste Management
The newly patented technology addresses critical challenges in the industry, offering a novel method and apparatus for the efficient conversion of biosolids, typically from wastewater treatment plants, into high-quality fertilizer. The double drum dryer system and novel nip feeder are key innovations that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the process.
Key Features and Innovations:
- Double Drum Dryer: This system has two steam heated drums which use non direct thermal drying to quickly and efficiently dry biosolids.
- Nip Feeder: Positioned in the feeding chamber, the nip feeder reduces bridging issues, ensuring a consistent and reliable feed of biosolids into the drying drums.
- Enhanced Throughput: This system is capable of handling higher volumes of biosolids, significantly improving processing efficiency.
Process Overview:
- Initial Storage and Mixing: Liquid biosolids are initially stored in a biosolids storage unit where they are continuously mixed.
- Screening and Dewatering: A pressurized screener removes large debris, followed by a centrifuge, belt press, or similar device that increases the solids concentration by dewatering the biosolids.
- Drying: The dewatered biosolids are then transported to the feeding chamber and applied evenly onto the drums with a slitter device.
- Final Product: The dried biosolids are further processed into bulk or pellet fertilizer, ready for use and recycled back to the land from which it came.
Benefits of the New System:
- Increased Efficiency: The improved feeding mechanism minimizes downtime and maintenance, ensuring a smoother operation.
- Versatility: Different types of biosolid compositions and moisture levels can be accommodated by this system.
- Sustainability: Promotes environmentally friendly practices by converting waste into a valuable resource.
Quote from Patent Inventor & Merrell Bros. Co-Founder: “With our talented team here at Merrell Bros. we are changing the way biosolids are processed by turning what use to be considered a waste product into a valuable fertilizer pellet that can be recycled back to the land from which it came in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.” – Terry Merrell
About Merrell Bros.
Merrell Bros. is a leading provider of environmental solutions, specializing in waste management and biosolids processing. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Merrell Bros. offers advanced technologies and services to meet the evolving needs of the industry.