Empty drum using FE-L suction lance

Name: HECHT Empty drum using FE-L suction lance
Brand: HECHT

Emptying

Description

The HECHT FE-L drum emptying unit with suction lance is a new development based on our CFE-L drum emptying unit. With the mobile FE-L, drums can be emptied ergonomically and with little dust – suitable for containment applications in the chemical industry. Drums with and without liners can be emptied. For drums with a liner, the liner can be sucked up to the edge of the drum using a vacuum, so that complete emptying is always guaranteed. With this system, partial withdrawals can also be carried out, allowing raw materials to be used in a targeted manner.

Customer benefits

For residue-free discharging of drums
Quick drum change possible thanks to simple docking
Also suitable for EX zones
Low dust thanks to vacuum conveying
Extremely ergonomic thanks to guided lance with dead weight compensation
Various drum types and sizes can be emptied
Dosing via the lance can be realised as an option, allowing the product to be transferred directly to production
Easy integration into roller conveyor systems
Mobile use
FDA-compliant and hygienic design in accordance with GMP guidelines on request

Frequently asked questions about emptying drums with the FE-L suction lance

What is drum emptying with a suction lance (FE-L) and why does the internal lance matter?

The FE-L is a closed-system drum-emptying component with an internal lance for complete extraction. The internal lance matters because: (1) it reaches the bottom of the drum, (2) it eliminates manual residue removal, (3) it maximises product recovery (99%+), (4) it minimises operator exposure.

Which drum sizes is the FE-L compatible with?

Standard: 200 L EN-standard drums. Extended: 1000 L IBC containers. Custom adapters are available for other drum formats. Contact sales with your drum specifications.

How much product recovery does the FE-L achieve?

99%+ product recovery. Dead space <50 mL (vs. 500–1000 mL with manual emptying). The lance reaches every corner and the bottom for complete extraction.

Can I use the FE-L for HPAPI materials?

Yes. OEB 1–5 compatible, HPAPI-safe. The closed-system design ensures zero operator exposure during drum emptying. GMP Annex 1 compliant.

How much time do I save with automatic emptying vs. manual?

Typically 70–80% time savings. Manual: 30–45 minutes per drum. FE-L: 5–10 minutes. Plus zero manual-handling risk and higher product recovery.

Does the FE-L also work for liquids?

Yes. Up to 300 L/min for liquids with an optional pressure regulator. Pressure control is available for high-viscosity materials (pastes, suspensions).

How do I clean the FE-L lance?

CIP-compatible; the lance remains in place. Rinsing with steam or solvent. Typical clean cycle: 20–30 minutes per drum. Annual lance inspection recommended.

Is the FE-L GMP-compliant and validation-ready?

Yes. GMP Annex 1 compatible, GAMP 5 validation protocols available. 316L stainless steel construction, pharma-compliant. Validation: 4–6 weeks including residue testing per drum type.

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Handling FE-L

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Technology

Drum is fed to the FE-L via roller conveyor, lifting device or manually
Pneumatic retaining ring lowers to fix the drum in place
Liner is attached to the upper opening by an additional pneumatic fixing ring
Vacuum is applied between the liner and the drum so that the liner is automatically positioned against the drum
Raw material can be emptied optimally
Suction of the liner into the lance is effectively prevented
Removal can be paused or stopped at any time
Safety mechanisms are deactivated to undock and remove the drum