Specialised industrial gear units engineered for demanding oilseed processing

Reliable power transmission is essential in every stage of modern oilseed processing, particularly during desolventising, toasting, cooling and drying operations, where equipment operates continuously under high loads, elevated temperatures and humid conditions.

BMG supplies and supports the Sumitomo Hansen P4 range of Industrial Gear Units (IGUs) which has been engineered for Desolventiser Toaster (DT), Dryer Cooler (DC) and combined Desolventiser-Toaster-Dryer-Cooler (DTDC) installations used in vegetable oil extraction plants.

“BMG works closely with customers operating in demanding industrial environments where gearbox reliability directly influences plant availability and production efficiency,” explains Barry Stoltz, Gears Regional Manager in BMG’s Electro-Mechanical division. “The Hansen P4 range, which combines robust mechanical design with features that simplify maintenance and maximise operational reliability, has been developed specifically for these applications.

“These critical drives are able to withstand fluctuating process conditions, heavy thrust loads and continuous operating cycles typical in modern processing facilities. More than 400 Hansen toaster drives are currently operating worldwide, delivering output torque of up to 1 840 kNm and reduction ratios of up to 280:1, with larger configurations available where required.”

A key feature of the Hansen P4 design is its dedicated vertical housing, developed specifically to accommodate the high thrust loads generated during desolventising and toasting processes. Enlarged mounting surfaces distribute loads more effectively into the supporting structure, reducing stresses within the gearbox housing and improving long-term reliability. Where necessary, the mounting surface can be further increased to suit individual installation requirements.

The latest Hansen P4 configuration also incorporates an enhanced bearing arrangement, developed through detailed engineering investigations and close collaboration with customers. Additional thrust bearings on the intermediate shafts separate axial and radial loads, improving load distribution across the rollers and increasing the gearbox’s ability to withstand the transient loading conditions commonly experienced in desolventiser toaster applications. The arrangement is also available as an upgrade kit for existing installations.”

Because moisture and condensation are constant challenges in processing environments, every Hansen P4 toaster drive is equipped with features that protect internal components against corrosion and premature wear. Standard equipment includes re-greasable labyrinth shaft seals, silica gel breather filters, condensate drain lines at each bearing location and moisture-resistant paint finishes. These measures help extend lubricant life, simplify oil sampling and ensure dependable long-term operation in high-humidity environments.

Ease of maintenance has also been incorporated into the design of this system. Standard oil flow and oil level switches assist with operational monitoring, while optional condition monitoring systems provide real-time information on oil contamination, temperature and vibration. A large inspection cover positioned above the oil level allows routine inspections to be carried out without unnecessary disruption, while the horizontally split housing enables comprehensive maintenance with minimal dismantling.

As desolventiser toaster systems frequently operate in potentially explosive atmospheres, Hansen P4 drives are available in complete configurations that meet stringent safety requirements.

In addition to supplying Hansen industrial gear units, BMG is the authorised OEM repair partner for Hansen gearboxes in southern Africa. Repairs are completed using genuine replacement parts and approved factory procedures, enabling customers to restore equipment to original operating specifications, while protecting long-term reliability and service life.