Method of handling flowable materials

Abstract

A method 100 is provided for handling flowable materials 208, comprising the steps 102-112 of: aligning a first container 206 with a dispensing means 202; extending a nozzle 204 from the dispensing means 202 at least partially into the first container 206; depositing the flowable material 208 from the nozzle 204; retracting the nozzle 204 while the flowable material 208 is being deposited from the nozzle 204; stopping further deposition of the flowable material 208 and removing the nozzle 204 from the first container 206 when a measured amount of flowable material 208 has been deposited; and sealing the first container 206. Also described herein is a system 200 for handling flowable materials 208.

Description

[0001] XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] METHOD OF HANDLING FLOWABLE MATERIALS

[0004] FIELD

[0005] The present invention relates to a method of handling flowable materials. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method of performing a filling operation using energetic materials in a flowable form in a way that is compliant with regulatory requirements. Also described herein is a system that is compatible with the method described herein.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] The handling of certain materials is restricted by regulations that dictate how said materials are to be processed, packaged, transported, or otherwise handled. For example, European Directives 99 / 92 / EC and 2014 / 34 / EU, also known as the ATEX Workplace Directive and ATEX Equipment Directive, respectively, dictate how substances relating to explosive atmospheres must be controlled. “Explosive atmospheres” in this context encompasses the use of flammable gases, mists, vapours, and combustible dust, powder, and materials in other materials in granulated form, or having flowable properties. The combustion of these materials can lead to injury and damage when handled incorrectly. Therefore, strict compliance with the governing regulations is vital.

[0008] Further regulations apply when these materials are transported, for example, by the European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR). ADR requirements state that materials capable of causing explosive atmospheres must be contained within at least a drum or box that meets the required specifications. ADR compliance also requires that a further container is used within the drum or box to provide a further barrier to spillages that can occur if the drum or box is pierced or split e.g., due to a fall. By providing a secondary internal container, the risk of such spillages may be reduced.

[0009] At present, these requirements are achieved through a combination of automated and manual means. However, many of the materials that require handling in accordance with the ATEX and ADR regulations can pose serious health and safety risks to operators who must perform any procedures manually. XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0010] - 2 -

[0011] Therefore, there is an opportunity to improve the methods and systems that currently exist for the handling of flowable materials, such as powders, whilst still ensuring compliance with regulations. The present invention aims to address at least some of these problems.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] Described herein is a method of handling flowable materials, such as powdered materials, in a way that complies with ATEX and ADR regulations. Also described herein is a system for handling flowable materials, such as in the described method. The intention of the method and system provided herein is to reduce and preferably eliminate the need for manual operators to be involved with the handling and packaging materials falling under these regulations to reduce the risk of harm. Automation of these processes may provide further benefits including improved speed and efficiency.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for handling a flowable material. As referred to herein, a flowable material may include any material formed of particulates or granules, such as powders and / or dusts. As referred to herein, a flowable material may be a material having flowing or flow-like characteristics of a liquid, but in solid form. The method disclosed herein may also be compatible for use with liquids and gels. The flowable material may be wetted, in that it comprises around 10% water to desensitise the material and improve the safety of handling said material.

[0015] The method includes the step of aligning a first container with a dispensing means. The dispensing means may be arranged to dispense a flowable material, such as a powder, from a nozzle, into the first container.

[0016] The method includes the step of extending a nozzle from the dispensing means at least partially into the container. The nozzle may be initially extended into a lower portion of the container. For example, the nozzle may extend into the first container such that the distance between a tip or end of the nozzle and the lower surface of the first container reduces the distance that the flowable material falls during a deposition operation. This arrangement may reduce the likelihood of ignition or detonation occurring when handling energetic or reactive flowable materials. XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0017] - 3 -

[0018] The method includes the step of depositing the flowable material from the nozzle. The rate of deposition of the flowable material deposition may be varied throughout the material deposition operation.

[0019] The method includes the step of retracting the nozzle while the flowable material is being deposited from the nozzle. In other words, the nozzle will retract towards the dispensing means during a deposition operation such that the distance between the end of the nozzle and the lower surface of the first container is increased. The rate of retraction of the nozzle may be varied throughout the deposition operation. The rate of retraction of the nozzle and the rate of material deposition from the nozzle may be linked to each other, and / or controlled according to a deposition program.

[0020] The method includes the step of stopping further deposition of flowable materials and removing the nozzle from the first container when a measured amount of flowable material has been deposited. The nozzle may be fully removed from the first container after a deposition operation has been completed.

[0021] The method includes the step of sealing the first container. The first container may be sealed with a lid, such as a twist lid. Sealing of the first container may be performed using an articulating means. The articulating means may be a robotic arm or the like.

[0022] The method may enable the safe handling of flowable materials in accordance with relevant safety directives and regulations and may enable the method to be carried out without direct human interaction.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of depositing the flowable material directly into the first container, by the nozzle. This arrangement may prevent leakage of the deposited material.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of dispensing a lining around at least a portion of the nozzle, via a lining dispensing means. The lining may form a second container within the first container. The lining or second container may be arranged to directly receive the flowable material that is deposited from the nozzle. The method may therefore provide enhanced capture and storage of the deposited flowable material, thereby reducing the likelihood of spillages from occurring. XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0025] - 4 -

[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of dispensing additional lining, via the lining dispensing means, to increase the size of the second container within the first container to accommodate the flowable material deposited by the nozzle while the nozzle is being retracted. The size and / or volume of the second container may therefore be increased to accommodate the deposited flowable material.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of applying suction to the second container when the nozzle is fully retracted, and the deposition of flowable material has stopped to remove excess air from the second container. Applying suction to the second container may further ensure that the deposited material is stored in a safer atmosphere. Applying suction may also remove any contaminants from the atmosphere within the second container.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of sealing the lining in a first position to provide a first seal, and in a second position to form a second seal, when the nozzle is fully retracted and the deposition of flowable material has stopped. Sealing the lining in a first position and a second position may provide sealing of the second container within the first container; and further, may provide a bottom seal of the second container for the next deposition operation. In other words, the first seal may provide an upper seal of the second container, thereby providing a completely sealed second container; and the second seal may provide a lower seal of the lining that is able to be used to form the second container in the next deposition operation.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first and second seals may be heat seals. Heat sealing may provide a fast and effective way of sealing the second container and the lining. By sealing the second container, the deposited flowable material may be prevented from leaking or spilling.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of cutting the lining between the first and second seals to separate the second container from the nozzle. Cutting the lining between the first and second seals may provide a second container that is detached and / or separate from the nozzle and which may fit into the first container. Cutting the lining between the first and second seals may further separate the second XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0031] - 5 - container from the lining which may be used for subsequent deposition operations.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of pushing the second container to fit inside the first container before the first container is sealed. The second container may be pushed into the first container using an articulating means. As referred to herein, an articulating means may be a robotic arm or the like. This may ensure that the second container fits wholly within the first container, thereby better protecting the deposited material. Further, the use of an articulating means may ensure that this procedure can be performed without manual intervention.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of weighing the amount of flowable material that has been deposited while the flowable material is being deposited by the nozzle. The amount of flowable material that is deposited may therefore be controlled and monitored accurately to ensure the first and / or second containers are filled to a required level.

[0034] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the step of weighing the amount of flowable material before the flowable material is deposited by the nozzle. For example, the amount of flowable material may be weighed by or within the dispensing means. Pre-weighing the material for deposition may enable faster subsequent deposition to be achieved. The method may include the step of weighing the amount of deposited material by weighing the first container during the deposition operation. Deposition may be controlled according to whether the measured weight meets a pre-determined threshold.

[0035] The method may include the step of weighing the amount of flowable material by, measuring the amount of flowable material before the flowable material is deposited by the nozzle; and / or measuring the amount of flowable material that has been deposited while the flowable material is being deposited by the nozzle. The weighing methods described herein may be combined to provide more accurate deposition monitoring and to ensure consistency between batches. Of course, other weighing methods may be applied.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, sealing the first container may include the steps of: positioning a lid onto the first container; and XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0037] - 6 - applying a torque to seal the lid onto the first container. This may be performed using an articulating means, such as a robotic arm, thereby reducing the need for manual intervention.

[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention, the flowable material may be an energetic material. The method may therefore be performed to handle energetic materials safely.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, wherein the steps of: aligning a first container with a dispensing means; extending a nozzle from the dispensing means at least partially into the first container; depositing the flowable material from the nozzle; retracting the nozzle while the flowable material is being deposited from the nozzle; and stopping further deposition of the flowable material and removing the nozzle from the first container when a measured amount of flowable material has been deposited, are performed within an airlock. This may ensure that the relevant steps are carried out in accordance with relevant safety directives and regulations.

[0040] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for handling flowable materials. The system comprises a dispensing means. The dispensing means further comprises a nozzle. The dispensing means is configured to deposit a flowable material via the nozzle. The nozzle is configured to extend from the dispensing means into a first container prior to flowable material being deposited. The nozzle is further configured to retract while flowable material is being deposited, and fully retract out of the first container after flowable material has been deposited. The nozzle may include internal baffling to slow down or limit the flow rate of material passing through.

[0041] The system further comprises an articulating means. For example, the articulating means may be a robotic arm or the like. The articulating means is configured to apply a seal to the first container after a flowable material has been deposited. The system may be used to enable the method described herein. The system may enable the safe handling of flowable materials in accordance with relevant safety directives and regulations and may enable the described above method to be carried out without manual intervention.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system may further comprise a measuring means. The measuring means may be configured to determine an amount of flowable material that has been deposited and / or an XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0043] - 7 - amount of flowable material that is to be deposited. The use of a measuring means may ensure that the amount of flowable material that is deposited is accurate.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system may further comprise a lining dispensing means. The lining dispensing means may be configured to dispense a lining around at least a portion of the nozzle. The lining may form a second container that is configured to receive flowable material that is deposited by the nozzle. The use of a lining to form a second container may improve the safety of handling the flowable material and reduce the likelihood and risk of leakages or spillages occurring.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present invention, the lining dispensing means may be configured to dispense lining during flowable material deposition while the nozzle is being retracted. Dispensing lining during retraction of the nozzle may therefore expand the available volume of the lining to accommodate the deposited flowable material. The lining may therefore be provided as a second container to capture the deposited flowable material during a deposition process.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system may further comprise a sealing means. The sealing means may be configured to form a first seal and a second seal in the lining at a first point and a second point, respectively. In other words, the sealing means may provide a closure within the lining at two distinct points. The first and second points may be spaced apart from each other. The sealing means may be a heat sealing means, and the first and second seals may be first and second heat seals. Sealing the lining at a first point e.g., in a lower position, may enable the second container to be closed. This may thereby provide a second container that fully encloses the deposited flowable material. Sealing the lining at a second point e.g., in an upper position, may enable the remaining lining to serve as a second container for a subsequent flowable material deposition operation.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system may further comprise a cutting means. The cutting means may be configured to cut the lining between the first seal and the second seal. This may enable the fully closed second container to become free from the nozzle and / or lining dispensing XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0048] - 8 - means. This may further enable the remaining lining to be used in a subsequent flowable material deposition operation.

[0049] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first container may be formed from a conductive polymer. The conductive polymer may be configured to dissipate static charges. The conductive polymer may therefore reduce the risk of accidental detonation or ignition of the flowable materials during use of the system or method. The first container may be a drum, box, or other approved container according to ADR regulations.

[0050] According to another aspect of the present invention, the lining that forms the second container may be formed from a conductive polymer. The conductive polymer may be configured to dissipate static charges. The conductive polymer may therefore reduce the risk of accidental detonation or ignition of the flowable materials during use of the system or method. At least one of the first container and / or second container may be formed of the conductive polymer.

[0051] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0052] Features and examples of the present disclosure will become apparent by reference to the following detailed description and drawings. For the sake of brevity, reference numerals or features having a previously described function may or may not be described in connection with other drawings in which they appear.

[0053] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the figures, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 shows a flow chart for a method of performing a filling operation using a flowable material;

[0055] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the steps of the method of Figure 1 ;

[0056] Figure 3 shows a further schematic representation of the steps of the method of Figure 1 and further includes the use of a lining material that forms a second container within the first container; and

[0057] Figure 4 shows a block diagram illustrating the component parts of a system for performing a filling operation using a flowable material.

[0058] DETAILED DESCRIPTION XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0059] - 9 -

[0060] Hereinafter, various examples will be described with reference to the accompanying figures. The examples described below may be modified and implemented in different forms. To describe features of the examples more clearly, detailed descriptions of matters well known to those skilled in the art to which the following examples belong will be omitted.

[0061] In the present disclosure, when an element is described as "connected" or “coupled” with another element, this includes not only “directly connected” or “directly coupled”, but also “connected with another element therebetween” or “coupled with another element therebetween”. In addition, when one element is described to "include" another element, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the one element may further include other elements rather than excluding other elements.

[0062] Figure 1 shows a flow chart illustrating the steps in a method 102 of handling a flowable material. The steps of method 100 are further illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. In particular, the steps relate to a method 102 of performing a filling operation using a flowable material. The method 100 comprises the step 102 of aligning a first container 206 with a dispensing means. This may, for example, involve aligning a nozzle 204 of the dispensing means 202 with an open upper portion of the first container 206. The method 100 further comprises the step 104 of extending a nozzle 204 from the dispensing means 202 at least partially into the first container 206. The method 100 further comprises the step 106 of depositing a flowable material from the nozzle 204. The method 100 further comprises the step 108 of retracting the nozzle 204 while the flowable material is being deposited from the nozzle 204. The method 100 further comprises the step 110 of stopping deposition of the flowable material and removing the nozzle 204 from the first container 206 when a measured amount of flowable material has been deposited. The method 100 further comprises the step 112 of sealing the first container 206.

[0063] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the steps of method 100. From left to right, Figure 2 shows steps 102-112 as described above in relation to Figure 1 .

[0064] In step 102, a first container 206 is aligned under a dispensing means 202 comprising a protruding nozzle 204. The first container 206 is provided with an open top i.e., no lid is provided to facilitate the nozzle 204. The first container 206 XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0065] - 10 - is aligned under the nozzle 204 such that when extended, the nozzle 204 can pass at least partially into the first container 206 such that deposited material will be directly deposited into the first container 206.

[0066] In step 104, the nozzle 204 is extended from the dispensing means 202 at least partially into the first container 206. As shown, the nozzle 204 is extended into a lower portion of the first container 206, close to the bottom of the first container 206. The further the nozzle 204 extends into the first container 206, the lower the drop height will be for the deposited flowable material. Where energetic flowable materials are used, this will reduce the likelihood and risk of ignition or detonation.

[0067] In step 106, flowable material 208 is deposited from the nozzle 204. Due to the position of the extended nozzle 204, the flowable material 208 is deposited directly into the lower portion of the first container 206. In the example shown, the flowable material 208 is a powder or dust, however, the method 100 could also be applied to liquids, gels, and other materials that have the characteristics of flowing materials. Since the material is flowable in nature, it flows similarly to a liquid but will form a pile within the first container 206. As such, without retraction of the nozzle 204, the exit of the nozzle 204 would become blocked.

[0068] To address this, in step 108, the nozzle 204 is retracted while flowable material 208 is being deposited from the nozzle 204. As such, the end of the nozzle retracts from its position within a lower portion of the first container 206 upwards towards the dispensing means 202, whilst remaining within the first container 206. The deposited flowable material 208 will form a pile within the first container as more flowable material is deposited.

[0069] In step 110, the required amount of flowable material 208 has been deposited by the nozzle 204. At this point, the nozzle 204 stops depositing any further flowable material 208 and fully retracts from the first container 206, as shown.

[0070] In step 112, the first container 206 is sealed. As shown, the first container 206 is sealed using a lid 210. The lid 210 is a twist style of lid, which is easier for articulating means, such as robotic arms (not shown), to apply.

[0071] Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of the steps of method 100 including the additional steps of providing a lining that forms a further barrier against spillages and leakages in the event that the integrity of the first container XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0072] - 11 -

[0073] 206 becomes compromised. From left to right, Figure 3 shows steps 102-112 as described above in relation to Figures 1 and 2.

[0074] Steps 102 and 104 are substantially the same as above in relation to Figures 1 and 2. The main difference is that in this arrangement, the nozzle 204 includes a lining dispensing means that is configured to dispense a lining 212 around at least a portion of the nozzle 204. As shown in Figure 3, the lining 212 is dispensed around the end of the nozzle 204. The lining 212 includes a closed lower end and an open upper end such that flowable material 208 can be deposited therein.

[0075] In step 106, flowable material 208 is deposited from the nozzle 204 as described above in relation to Figures 1 and 2. However, in Figure 3, the flowable material 208 is deposited directly into the lining 212 such that the lining acts as a second container inside the first container 206. The deposited flowable material 208 is completely contained within the second container 212.

[0076] In step 108, as the nozzle 204 is retracted during a deposition operation, the lining dispensing means dispenses additional lining material such that the volume of the second container 212 increases in accordance with the deposition of flowable material 208. The volume of the second container 212, as defined by the dispensed lining, is increased to provide a volume that accommodates the deposited flowable material 208.

[0077] In step 209, when the nozzle 204 reaches a fully retracted position, the lining dispensing means stops dispensing additional lining because no further flowable material deposition is taking place. At this point, a sealing means, such as a heat sealing means, is used to provide a first (lower) seal 214a at a first position, and a second (upper) seal 214b at a second position, shown by the dashed lines in step 109 of Figure 3. The first and second seals 214a, 214b are therefore heat seals. Before sealing, a vacuum is applied to the second container 212 to remove excess air and to provide a safer atmosphere within the second container before sealing.

[0078] The first seal 214a has the effect of sealing an upper end of the second container 212, thereby completely closing and sealing off the contents of the second container 212 from the external environment. The second seal 214b has the effect of providing a lower seal in the lining that is to be used in a subsequent flowable material deposition operation. XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0079] - 12 -

[0080] In step 111 , the second container 212a is separated from the lining material 212b of the lining dispenser via a cutting means. This step provides a second container 212 that is completely detached from the nozzle 204 and / or lining dispensing means.

[0081] In step 112, the second container 212 is pushed into the first container 206 such that the second container 212 is fully contained within the first container 206. The first container 206 is then sealed using a lid 210. Pushing of the second container 212 is provided by an actuating means, such as a robotic arm. Similarly, the application of the lid 210 to the first container 206 to seal the first container 206 is also provided by an actuating means, such as a robotic arm.

[0082] Figure 4 shows a block diagram illustrating the parts of a system 200 for handling flowable materials, for example, during a filling operation in accordance with method 100.

[0083] The system 200 comprises a dispensing means 202. The dispensing means 202 comprises a nozzle 204. The nozzle 204 is configured to extend and retract according to the stage of a flowable material depositing operation.

[0084] The system 200 further comprises an articulating means 216 that is configured to apply a lid 210 to a first container 206. In configurations involving the use of a second container 212, the articulating means 216 is also configured to push the second container 212 into the first container 206 before sealing the first container 206. The first container 206 and second container 212 (when used) are made of a conductive polymer material. The conductive polymer is configured to dissipate static charges to prevent accidental ignition or detonation of the flowable material 208 contained within the first container 206 or the second container 212, 212a.

[0085] Reference in the specification to “an example”, “an embodiment”, “an aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one example, but not necessarily in other examples. The various instances of the phrase “in one example” or similar phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same example. In describing and claiming examples disclosed herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. XA24146 GB Spec for filing

[0086] - 13 -

[0087] While several examples have been described in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosed examples may be modified. Therefore, the foregoing description is to be considered non-limiting. It should be understood that the examples described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each example should typically be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other examples. While one or more examples have been described with reference to the figures, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details may be made.

Claims

XA24146 GB Spec for filing- 14 -CLAIMS1 . A method for handling a flowable material, comprising the steps of: i) aligning a first container with a dispensing means; ii) extending a nozzle from the dispensing means at least partially into the first container; iii) depositing the flowable material from the nozzle; iv) retracting the nozzle while the flowable material is being deposited from the nozzle; v) stopping further deposition of the flowable material and removing the nozzle from the first container when a measured amount of flowable material has been deposited; and vi) sealing the first container.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the flowable material is deposited directly into the first container by the nozzle.

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of dispensing a lining around at least a portion of the nozzle, via a lining dispensing means, the lining forming a second container within the first container and arranged to directly receive the flowable material that is deposited from the nozzle4. The method of claim 3, further comprising the step of dispensing additional lining, via the lining dispensing means, to increase the size of the second container within the first container to accommodate the flowable material deposited by the nozzle while the nozzle is being retracted.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising the step of applying suction to the second container when the nozzle is fully retracted, and the deposition of flowable material has stopped to remove excess air from the second container.

6. The method of claim 4 or claim 5, further comprising the step of sealing the lining in a first position to provide a first seal, and in a second position to formXA24146 GB Spec for filing- 15 - a second seal, when the nozzle is fully retracted, and the deposition of flowable material has stopped.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first and second seals are heat seals.

8. The method of claim 6, further comprising the step of cutting the lining between the first and second seals to separate the second container from the nozzle.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of pushing the second container to fit inside the first container before the first container is sealed.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the second container is pushed into the second container using an articulating means.11 . The method of any preceding claim, wherein sealing of the first container is performed using an articulating means.

12. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle is initially extended into a lower portion of the first container.

13. The method of any preceding claim, further including the step of weighing the amount of flowable material that has been deposited while the flowable material is being deposited by the nozzle.

14. The method of any of claims 1-13, further including the step of weighing the amount of flowable material before the flowable material is deposited by the nozzle.

15. The method of any preceding claim, wherein sealing the first container includes the further steps of: positioning a lid onto the first container; and applying a torque to seal the lid onto the first container.XA24146 GB Spec for filing- 16 -16. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the flowable material is an energetic material.

17. The method any preceding claims, wherein at least steps i)-v) are performed within an airlock.

18. A system for handling flowable materials comprising: a dispensing means comprising a nozzle; and an articulating means; wherein the dispensing means is configured to deposit flowable material, via the nozzle, wherein the nozzle is configured to extend from the dispensing means into a first container prior to flowable material being deposited, retract while flowable material is being deposited, and fully retract out of the first container after flowable material has been deposited, wherein the articulating means is configured to apply a seal to the first container after a flowable material has been deposited.

19. The system of claim 18, further comprising a measuring means, configured to determine an amount of flowable material that has been deposited, or an amount of flowable material that is to be deposited.

20. The system of claim 18, further comprising a lining dispensing means, configured to dispense a lining around at least a portion of the nozzle, the lining forming a second container that is configured to receive flowable material deposited by the nozzle.21 . The system of claim 20, wherein lining dispensing means is configured to dispense lining during flowable material deposition while the nozzle is being retracted.

22. The system of claim 19, further comprising a sealing means, configured to form a first seal and a second seal in the lining at a first point and second point, respectively.XA24146 GB Spec for filing- 17 -23. The system of claim 22, further comprising a cutting means that is configured to cut the lining between the first seal and the second seal.

24. The system of any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the first container is formed of a conductive polymer that is configured to dissipate static charges.

25. The system of any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein the lining that forms the second container is formed of a conductive polymer that is configured to dissipate static charges.

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