How vacuum conveying is quietly becoming the industry standard
UK manufacturers are facing growing demands from both evolving consumer expectations and rising operational costs, bringing bulk material handling under renewed scrutiny. Whether in the food, chemical, or pharmaceutical sectors, the need for more efficient, hygienic and adaptable material transfer systems has become a defining factor in staying competitive.
One area seeing significant innovation is vacuum conveying. Once viewed as a niche option, it is now being widely adopted as manufacturers modernise facilities to meet the demands of faster turnaround times, flexible production and higher safety standards. Among the key players driving this evolution is Volkmann UK, whose vacuum conveyors offer enclosed, dust-free transfer of powders, granules, and small components, delivering efficiency, hygiene and a significant reduction in manual handling, all with minimal energy consumption.
In today’s production environments, flexibility is no longer optional. Manufacturers are expected to deliver a growing number of product variants, respond to shifting market demands and implement more sustainable processes. Volkmann’s vacuum conveying systems support this by enabling rapid changeovers, compact layouts and scalable throughput, up to 10,000kg/h where required, dependant on conveying distances and product characteristics. Their modular systems are designed with hygiene and ease of cleaning in mind, allowing manufacturers to move between batches quickly while reducing downtime and contamination risks.
Safety and compliance remain central, particularly for operations involving combustible or hazardous materials. Volkmann systems meet both FDA and ATEX standards and are available in INEX versions for dust and gas explosion zones. Their enclosed operation not only helps protect the product but also the operator and the environment, while supporting consistent, repeatable results through automation.
Beyond the core conveying systems, Volkmann UK also provide a wide range of bulk material handling solutions including drum discharge units, bulk bag unloading stations, vibratory feeders and rip-and-tip equipment, enabling seamless integration into larger process lines. What sets the company apart is its engineering-led approach and commitment to helping customers find the right solution for their specific material and process requirements.
With labour challenges continuing to impact manufacturing and an increased emphasis on health and safety, reducing manual handling is both a practical and strategic priority. Automated conveying systems reduce reliance on forklifts and lifting equipment, improve workplace ergonomics and minimise material loss, all whilst supporting a cleaner, more efficient production environment.
As material handling increasingly becomes a strategic consideration, not just an operational necessity, companies are looking for technologies that offer long-term flexibility, reliability and return on investment. Volkmann UK supports this shift not just with proven equipment but by offering on-site trials – allowing manufacturers to assess performance in their own environment before committing to capital expenditure.
In an era defined by customisation, speed and compliance, the way materials move through a plant is more critical than ever. With Volkmann UK leading the industry in this area, UK manufacturers have a robust solution to modernise their operations safely and efficiently. Vacuum conveying is not just shaping but defining the future of material handling.
Book a test today and discover how Volkmann UK’s innovative vacuum conveyors can revolutionise your production processes and boost efficiency. Contact Volkmann UK now to book a free trial or request a brochure. Visit their website for more details.
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