Pneumatic Conveying Systems Beginner’s Guide

double dump pneumatic conveying systems
double dump pneumatic conveying systems

What Is Pneumatic Conveying?

Pneumatic conveying involves transporting dry bulk materials using pressurized gas. Pneumatic conveying systems transport bulk materials like grains, pellets and powders through an enclosed system. 

The process works using compressed air to propel the solids at high speeds to its destination. Today the team at Roto-Disc discusses the process of pneumatic conveying systems and their components. 

How Are Dry Bulk Materials Transported in Pneumatic Conveying Systems? 

In a pneumatic conveying system, Dry bulk materials are conveyed using a pipeline system and compressed air. Many of these systems have poor processing performance because of their use of butterfly or slide-gate valves which frequently jam up or obstruct the flow of material. It’s essential to use valves in these systems that won’t jam, obstruct flow or allow materials to build up on the valve internals. 

Roto-Disc heavy-duty spherical valves prevent material jams and sticky buildups that reduce the performance of these systems. Unlike a butterfly valve, the dome of a Roto-Disc valve rotates out of the way so there’s nothing to obstruct the flow of material. And unlike a slide-gate valve, there’s no place for material to hang-up and cause jamming. The wiping action of the dome against the seat slices through material and cleans the dome with each cycle. 

What Type of Dry Bulk Materials Are Appropriate For Pneumatic Conveying Systems? 

Pneumatic conveying systems are designed specifically for the materials they are intended to convey. There are different styles ranging from dilute phase to ultra-dense phase. Dense phase systems often handle heavier materials like grains, pellets, salts, and larger materials. Dilute phase systems are used for lighter materials and powders. 

Things to Consider for a Dry Bulk Pneumatic Conveying System: 

-Material size and shape 

-Moisture Content

-Conveying Distance

-Required throughput

In most instances, material with a significant moisture content is not suitable for pneumatic conveying.

How to Avoid Material Buildup in a Pneumatic Conveying System? 

Material buildup is a common problem in pneumatic conveying systems. It creates an issue with the system’s efficiency and causes frequent downtime for maintenance. Material buildup happens when solid particles stick together and form clumps as it moves through the system. Monitoring air pressure and moisture content are two ways to avoid build-up in your system. 

Ensure an experienced pneumatic conveying manufacturer designs your system with your specific material in mind. Most firms have test systems that they can run your material through to see what convey parameters provide the most efficient flow. This helps build confidence that your system is good to go before starting production. 

Related Post: How Your Company Saved Money With Custom-Made Valves for Your Machinery 

Also, ensure that the manufacturer doesn’t cut corners with the valves they use in the system. Cheap butterfly or slide-gate valves might lower the initial price-tag of the system but can turn out to cost you much more in the long run in maintenance and replacement costs. Learn more about Roto-Disc valves and how they are the ideal valve for these systems.

Need Pneumatic Conveying Equipment? Roto-Disc Has You Covered 

Roto-Disc valves handle all types of dry solids or slurry materials and are a much better alternative to ball valves, slide gate valves, and butterfly valves. We create customized solutions for a wide variety of industry applications. Visit Roto-Disc online to learn more about how our valves can eliminate your valve headaches.