When people first learn about a pneumatic conveyor, they’re instantly hit by a wave of nerves and apprehension. Not only are these systems complex, but every component relies on another to work effectively. With a foundation of knowledge, you can feel more confident when this topic arises!
Introduction to Pneumatic Conveying
The phrase might sound extremely technical, but it’s actually straightforward once you break it down into two parts. ‘Pneumatic’ is a word that describes any system that uses gas or air under pressure. Meanwhile, ‘conveying’ means moving something from one place to another. Therefore, you won’t be surprised to hear that pneumatic conveying means transferring materials from one process area to another by using compressed air or gas. In this application, we’re normally talking about granules, powders, and similar materials. As well as basic fans and blowers, materials can move from one area to another through a pressure differential. With advanced machinery, engineers can control both the airflow inside an enclosed conveying line and the pressure (whether they want a negative or positive pressure). Pneumatic conveying is so popular because it moves materials effectively, quickly, and with very little loss. As mentioned, dry powders and granules are the most common materials to pass through such systems. This includes sugar, soy flour, starch, coal fines, wheat flour, carbon black, sand, and cement powder. Elsewhere, some engineers use this system when working with batch ingredients. Why? Because it’s easier than other methods to weigh out materials.
Benefits of Pneumatic Conveying Systems
Pneumatic conveying systems have grown in popularity over the years, but why? Firstly, the systems are flexible. Depending on what engineers want to achieve, they can run a long or short system, vertical or horizontal system, and more. Even if you have lots of existing equipment in the room, there’s no reason why you can’t fit a pneumatic conveyor system inside. Generally speaking, the systems are implemented around obstructions and other equipment. Secondly, the fact that the system is enclosed adds a layer of safety. Thirdly, unlike other systems, this one doesn’t need lots of structural support. Since the whole system is lightweight, it doesn’t present the same construction difficulties as other solutions. Fourthly, you’ll find two different types of pneumatic conveying: dilute phase and dense phase. While the former is designed for high velocities, the latter is designed for delicate products at lower velocities. Finally, just in case these reasons weren’t enough, it’s also much easier to maintain for engineers. Once you’ve located the separator, the air compressor and pump, the tubing, and the in-feed device, you’ve nearly mastered the system. Since these are all independent parts, repairs are simple, and you don’t need to replace the whole unit when something goes wrong.
Drawbacks of Pneumatic Conveying Systems
No manufacturing or engineering system is ever perfect, and one of the biggest downsides to pneumatic conveying is that it’s hard to manage high volumes. Since you can’t go above 300 horsepower in a blower, pneumatic conveying systems are best employed for small-scale operations. Other potential problems include the noise (blowers aren’t quiet!), the discharged conveying air, and the risk of plugging when using wet products. Also, delicate ingredients can suffer damage through quick turns and high velocity. This being said, many can find a middle ground with dense phase pneumatic conveying. Pneumatic conveying systems transport ingredients and other materials using compressed air/gas and airflow. Though they do have drawbacks, the many benefits make them an ideal solution for various applications!
