RAPS expands production in Kulmbach
The spice expert RAPS from Kulmbach has expanded its production capacity with another fluidized bed system. With the new system, the company can better serve the constantly growing national and international demand in the field of microencapsulation. Raw materials that are provided with special properties through microencapsulation form the basis for innovative products in the modern confectionery and food industry.
By means of microencapsulation, ingredients are swirled around in the system and encased in a protective cover, for example made of fat. The possible uses of microencapsulated ingredients are almost limitless. They range from a purely protective function to the controlled release of aromas, for example, improve the absorption of bioactive substances and enable salt reduction without sacrificing enjoyment. Microencapsulation is also interesting from an economic point of view, because it can be used to optimize the shelf life and handling of the raw materials.
Proven Technology
'The new plant was planned and built by Glatt GmbH in Binzen, one of the world's leading manufacturers of fluidized bed plants. In this system, conditioned, filtered air is sucked into the process chamber via a perforated plate on the floor. This whirls up the spreadable carrier material. A two-component nozzle sprays the additive onto the template with the air flow. In this way, grain size spectra from 100 to 2000 micrometers can be coated homogeneously.
connected to the location
Regional companies were responsible for the other units of the new system, such as refrigeration technology, steam supply and compressed air, as well as the master builder work. RAPS relies on long-term partnerships with local companies. To assemble the system, openings with a diameter of three meters were cut both in the roof and on all floors. A large crane then brought the system into the building while it was hanging.
RAPS Managing Director Florian Knell says: "For us, the major investment is a logical step, because our aim is to always be one step ahead and to be in the best possible position. Our customers benefit from innovative ingredients and additives and can rely on the best possible availability.”
Image copyright: RAPS, aerial view of the new plant at Einhub
About RAPS GmbH & Co. KG
For more than 95 years, RAPS GmbH & Co. KG from Kulmbach has stood for first-class quality, the best taste, innovation, technology and raw material expertise. As a reliable solution provider, RAPS delivers segment and customer-specific services. The ingredient manufacturer processes over 1.700 raw materials from all over the world. With a total of six production sites in Europe and more than 900 employees worldwide, RAPS produces around 35.000 tons of a wide variety of food ingredients and additives per year.
