ABSTRACT
IN-LINE PRODUCT BLENDING Many of the products we use in our daily lives are the result of combining two or more pre-prepared products into a single entity ready for the marketplace This combination process is normally referred to as blending and applies across the whole spectrum of use from edible to nonedible products. Blending should always be considered a nonreversible process, which means that once two or more separate products are brought together, it is virtually impossible to separate them back into their original states, using simple methods. The reversal process can be done, but at great additional expense because it will involve completely reprocessing the entire amount produced. What usually happens under these circumstances when an error occurs in product blending (always assuming that the blended product is capable of being reworked easily, without being reprocessed completely) is that the product with the unacceptable specification will be either up-or downgraded to another "saleable" product of similar but not equal specification. Both upgrading and downgrading require additional time, material, labor costs, and hence some net loss of revenue, which will inevitably affect the overall profitability. Considering the severe penalties to be paid for avoidable errors, it is no wonder that all processors of blended products will demand a means of getting the product right the first time around. The systems provided must therefore meet the criteria set and perform the task satisfactorily throughout their working life.
