Gale Process Solutions (GPS), a division of International Process Plants (IPP) that designs and fabricates alloy process equipment, has finalized its acquisition of the Porcupine Processor brand of specialty dryers for the process industry.
 
The acquisition includes the technology, designs, trademark and all engineering materials for the Porcupine Processor.
 
Originally developed by the Bethlehem Corp. of Easton, Pennsylvania, this industrial drying technology has been a cornerstone in processing industries. The Porcupine Processor is celebrated for its versatility and high heat transfer rate in drying various wet materials into free-flowing powder.
 
The Porcupine Processor is very efficient in drying materials that go through a phase change during the drying process. Many materials that begin at 20% or 30% solids and 70% to 80% moisture go through a phase change that can turn some material into a sticky putty substance. The Porcupine Processor is designed to continue to dry this material until it is a free-flowing dry powder. 
 
The Porcupine Processor is a heavy-duty design offered in batch or continuous process configurations, with or without vacuum capabilities and in various materials of construction.
 
With its steam or high temperature hot oil-heated shaft, paddles and jacketed trough, the Porcupine Processor can be configured for single- or double-heated shafts, paddles and jacket, making it adaptable to a wide range of industrial and environmental applications. The ability to adjust the residence time of materials within the dryer has made it a preferred choice for industry giants such as Alpek, BASF, Dow Chemical, Eastman Chemical, Indorama, INEOS and even unique food-grade applications such as See’s Candies.
 
“We are thrilled to reintroduce this invaluable processing platform to the industry,” said Ross Gale, President of Gale Process Solutions. “The Porcupine Processor has been widely regarded as the best in its class, and with our acquisition of the technology, we are excited to offer this proven solution to meet the evolving needs of the processing industry.” 
 
GPS’ investment in the Porcupine Processor comes at a time when the process and environmental industries are increasingly focused on efficiency, sustainability and versatility.
 
“The Porcupine Processor is a unique piece of equipment. If you know it, you likely know its utility and value,” Gale added. “We intend to build on this legacy by offering the same quality and reliability that the Porcupine Processor has been known for, with the added benefits of short lead times.”