The origin of the patent for flexible mechanical conveyors

In 1959, André Taupin, a miller from Nièvre, patented the flexible mechanical conveyor, a revolutionary innovation designed to transport wholemeal and wheat flour.

In 1961, Blaise RASTOIN, a Polytechnic Engineer and Industrial Visionary, bought the patent and launched the flexible mechanical conveyor on the European and North American markets, in various industries such as chemicals, plastics and food processing.

In 1967, he and Pierre LIGOUZAT decided to create PARIMIX to exploit the patent in the chemical and food industries.

Numerous other patents were registered, enabling the company to expand rapidly.

One of these patents, registered in 1971, concerned the mechanical extraction of powders stored in silos. This technology, coupled with the flexible mechanical conveyor, enabled the powders to be extracted and transported to the point of use.

Creation of Sodimate and international expansion

In 1980, Pierre Ligouzat decided to create Sodimate to exploit this technology in the water and flue gas treatment markets.

From a company based in the region of Paris, Sodimate has grown into an international group.

Under the management of Alain Pajot until 2006, followed by Nicolas Ligouzat to this day, Sodimate is constantly innovating and expanding this technology throughout the world.

Based on this silo extraction and screw feeder process, Sodimate creates new applications and equipment for sludge storage and mixing, as well as turnkey engineering solutions, ensuring the continuity of the initial know-how. Using the flexible screw, the screw feeder is the only device on the market combining the functions of silo emptying, dosing and powder transfer.

For over forty years, Sodimate has been developing solutions specifically adapted to these sectors, enabling our customers to comply with increasingly stringent environmental standards. Our core business, powder handling, has evolved into the provision of ‘turnkey solutions’ including complete systems.

With international coverage and numerous installations around the world, we can guarantee our customers a tailor-made service, from design to on-site installation and maintenance of equipment throughout its life cycle.

A continuous evolution…

The modern history of bulk handling systems began with André Taupin’s patent for the flexible screw and has developed in the industrial market thanks to the efforts of visionary and innovative people. Sodimate continues this quest for innovation and is proud to play a key role in the evolution and success of this industry.