The Hosokawa Test Centre provides pilot-scale testing and process development services for powder processing applications. Companies can evaluate powder processing technologies under laboratory, pilot and production-scale conditions, generating the data required for process validation, equipment selection and scale-up.
Menu
SERVICES
Process technologies for tomorrow.
Powder Processing Test Centre
Conduct pilot-scale testing for powder processing technologies at Hosokawa Micron's Test Centre in the Netherlands. Process engineers, technologists and product developers use our facilities to develop, validate and scale up powder processing systems. Trials for mixing, drying and agglomeration enable the evaluation of product properties, process parameters and equipment configurations under realistic operating conditions.
The Test Centre supports laboratory, pilot and production-scale trials. This allows process risks to be identified early, suitable technologies to be selected and informed decisions to be made for new products, process improvements and production investments. Every trial is supported by experienced Hosokawa process specialists and documented in a detailed technical report.
Why Test Your Powder Process at the Hosokawa Test Centre?
✅ 3,000 m² testing facility with more than 30 machines and systems
✅ Laboratory, pilot and production trials all in one location
✅ Batch and continuous processes available
✅ Support from experienced process engineers
✅ Robust data for process development and scale-up
✅ Suitable for R&D, product development and production validation
Pilot-Scale Equipment for Mixing, Drying and Agglomeration
The Hosokawa Test Centre houses numerous pilot plants and production facilities for powder processing. Tests can be carried out using both individual machines and integrated process lines.
- Batch mixing: 1–6,000 litres
- Continuous mixing: 100–1,500 kg/h
- Batch vacuum drying: 5–6,000 litres
- Batch freeze drying: 1.5–800 litres
- Continuous (mill) drying: 1–250 kg/h (evaporation capacity)
- Continuous agglomeration: 100–1,500 kg/h
Whether it’s a feasibility study, process optimisation or a scale-up project – our specialists will support you in assessing product quality, throughput, energy consumption, moisture content, mixing quality and bulk material properties.
Trials can be performed on individual machines or integrated powder processing systems. During testing, Hosokawa process specialists evaluate process performance, product characteristics and operating parameters to support technology selection, process optimisation and scale-up.
Explore Our Virtual Test Centre
Explore the Hosokawa Micron Test Centre in the Netherlands virtually in an interactive 3D environment and discover the available pilot-scale equipment, powder processing systems and integrated process installations for mixing, drying and agglomeration.
The virtual tour helps visitors to better understand the scale, capabilities and process development facilities of the Hosokawa Micron Test Centre before planning trials or visiting the site.
Open the Virtual Test Centre
Process Development and Scale-Up
Pilot-scale testing provides the data required to design industrial powder processing systems with greater confidence. At the Hosokawa Test Centre, process parameters, residence times, moisture levels, mixing performance and agglomerate properties can be evaluated under controlled operating conditions.
The insights gained during testing support the selection of appropriate powder processing technologies and help reduce risk when transferring a process to production scale. By combining laboratory, pilot and production-scale equipment, Hosokawa provides a structured approach to process development, from initial feasibility studies through to industrial implementation.
Safe Testing of Hazardous Materials
Our dedicated containment area allows safe testing of hazardous or sensitive materials such as battery compounds. The room is equipped with a downflow booth, HEPA-filtered ventilation, sealed air supply, and clearly defined cleaning protocols. Operators wear appropriate PPE, and all air and water discharge is filtered and safely managed. This controlled environment supports the safe handling and evaluation of hazardous or sensitive materials during pilot-scale trials.
Why Testing Is Essential
In powder processing, variables such as particle size distribution, moisture content, flow behaviour and equipment configuration can significantly influence product quality and process performance. Pilot-scale testing helps validate these effects under realistic operating conditions and supports reliable scale-up.
At Hosokawa Micron, trials are guided by experienced process technologists who work closely with you to develop an effective powder processing solution. Our technical know-how and advanced testing infrastructure help you select the best solution with confidence.
Talk to our experts
Speak with our processing experts to discover how Hosokawa Micron’s powder and solids processing solutions can help you develop, optimise or scale up your process — efficiently and with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does the Hosokawa Test Centre offer?
Which technologies can be tested at the Test Centre?
The Test Centre offers equipment for mixing, drying and agglomeration. Trials can be conducted using individual machines or integrated process lines, depending on the application. Both batch and continuous processing technologies are available.
What equipment sizes are available for pilot-scale trials?
The Test Centre includes equipment ranging from laboratory-scale units to production-scale systems. This allows processes to be developed and validated step by step before implementation in an industrial production environment.
Can a complete powder processing system be tested?
Yes. Complete powder processing systems can be evaluated, including material handling, mixing, drying, agglomeration and related process steps. This enables performance assessment under realistic operating conditions before full-scale investment.
How does the Test Centre support scale-up?
Pilot-scale testing provides the process data required to transfer a process from laboratory to production scale. Parameters such as throughput, product quality, moisture content, energy consumption and operating conditions can be evaluated, helping to reduce technical risk and improve scale-up reliability.
Can new materials or formulations be evaluated?
Yes. The Test Centre supports the evaluation of new raw materials, formulations and product concepts. Trials help determine how material characteristics influence processing behaviour and identify suitable technologies for achieving the desired product properties.
What data is collected during pilot-scale testing?
Relevant process and product data are recorded throughout the trial. Depending on the application, this may include temperature, moisture content, residence time, mixing performance, agglomerate properties, throughput and energy consumption. Results are documented in a detailed technical report.
What is included in the technical report?
The report summarises the test setup, equipment used, process parameters and results obtained during the trial. Where appropriate, recommendations can be provided regarding process optimisation, technology selection and scale-up.
Can trials be attended remotely?
Yes. Trials can be attended either on-site or remotely via a secure online connection. Customers can follow the testing process in real time and discuss results directly with Hosokawa process specialists.
Can hazardous or sensitive materials be tested safely?
Yes. The Test Centre includes a dedicated containment area for handling sensitive or potentially hazardous materials. Controlled processing conditions and appropriate safety measures support the safe execution of pilot-scale trials.
Why are pilot-scale trials important before investing in production equipment?
Pilot-scale trials help verify technical feasibility before capital investment. They provide the data required to evaluate process performance, select appropriate powder processing technologies and reduce uncertainty during scale-up.
When should a powder processing trial be performed?
Pilot-scale testing is particularly valuable when developing new products, introducing new raw materials, modifying existing processes or planning production-scale investments. Trials provide the data needed to support informed technical and commercial decisions.
Sustainable process technologies
Hosokawa Micron B.V. is committed to sustainable and responsible process technology. Our ISO 14001 certification covers key environmental aspects such as air, soil, energy, waste, water, noise and hazardous substances. With an EcoVadis Silver Medal, we rank among the top 3% of EcoVadis-rated companies in the special machinery industry.
