Hapman introduces new conveying solution at PACK EXPO

Hapman, a global manufacturer of custom bulk material handling equipment, is set to exhibit its latest technologies at PACK EXPO 2026, taking place October 18–21 in Chicago, Illinois. At Booth LU-7258, the company will unveil a new conveying solution developed specifically for applications requiring strict cleanability, product integrity, and simplified maintenance. Expanding its existing portfolio, this new system provides food and pharmaceutical manufacturers with advanced options for demanding material handling operations. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore Hapman’s established equipment lineup, including the CablePro, Helix, and specialized bulk bag handling systems.

Advanced tubular drag conveying for delicate materials
A central highlight of the showcase is the CablePro Tubular Drag Conveyor, engineered for the gentle, clean, and efficient transport of fragile bulk materials such as cereals, nuts, frozen foods, and pet food. To support the rigorous sanitation requirements of food and beverage operations, the system features FDA-approved components and polished stainless steel tubing. Its internal mechanism utilizes self-lubricating ultra-high-molecular-weight (UHMW) polyethylene disks injection-molded directly onto a pre-stretched, food-grade stainless steel braided cable coated in nylon. This architecture maintains product integrity during transport while ensuring long-lasting mechanical durability and consistent performance.

Flexible screw conveyors and bulk bag unloadingBeyond tubular drag technology, the booth will feature the Helix Flexible Screw Conveyor equipped with the HiLo option and integral dust collection. This versatile system accommodates powders, granules, crystals, and pellets by utilizing a helical auger rotating within a fixed tube to efficiently transport, batch, and blend materials. Additionally, Hapman will display its Bulk Bag Unloader, which integrates adjustable frames and lifting mechanisms to handle various bag sizes safely. Integrated dust collection and sealed discharge systems maintain a clean work environment, while automated controls and powered flow aids ensure smooth, accurate discharge for materials prone to clumping, bridging, or sticking.

Additional Context: Tubular drag vs. pneumatic conveying
In the food and pharmaceutical industries, transferring fragile bulk materials without causing degradation or product segregation is a constant engineering challenge. While pneumatic conveying systems are widely used, they rely on high-velocity air streams that can fracture delicate particles, leading to unacceptable levels of dust and product waste. Tubular drag conveyors resolve this by utilizing closely spaced disks pulled by a continuous cable or chain within a sealed tube. This mechanical design gently pulls the material at low speeds without the use of air pressure, preserving the structural integrity of fragile products like roasted nuts or coated cereals. Furthermore, the completely enclosed architecture prevents environmental contamination and contains combustible dust, significantly improving facility hygiene and operational safety.

Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.

www.hapman.com