The cable and disc systems expertly and accurately transport diverse coffee blends, ensuring their integrity.
For specialty coffee roasters, dispelling myths surrounding coffee conveyance can lead to the optimal preservation of delicate or intricate blends. This analysis will address two prevalent misconceptions within the industry concerning tubular drag cable and disc conveyors.
These conveyors gently propel the product through a sealed tube using a coated, flexible stainless-steel drag cable that moves in a loop. Solid circular discs (flights) are attached to the cable, pushing the coffee through the tube without relying on air. Tubular drag conveyors excel in transporting delicate, precise coffee blends in versatile setups and configurations.
Misconception #1: Conveyors Lack the Ability to Safeguard Coffee Blends
Maintaining a consistent mix ratio is crucial when transporting coffee blends via conveyor systems, regardless of whether the blend is fine or coarse.
However, traditional conveyor systems are not specifically engineered to transport coffee blends precisely without altering the mix ratio. Different product material weights, sizes, and shapes can shift and disperse in open systems, such as bucket conveyors, and vibrations can cause blended products to shift during transport. Vacuum and pneumatic systems can result in smaller, lightweight particles in a blend moving at varying speeds compared to heavier or larger particles, leading to significant blend alteration upon reaching the discharge point.
Similar to an endless train of cars, the space between each solid circular disc holds a predetermined volume of product. Based on the manufacturer’s specifications and requirements, engineers can determine the optimal system speed, appropriate tube angles, and suitable construction design to ensure the blended coffee product remains consistent from input to discharge, even at high volumes.
Misconception #2: Tubular Drag Cable Conveyors Are Equivalent to Screw Systems
Another widespread misconception is that tubular drag cable conveyors are the same as screw systems, which is inaccurate. Screw systems, also known as auger conveyors, typically use a helical blade to move granular materials within a tube. However, augers can damage products and compromise blends, making them suitable for applications where material integrity is not critical, such as conveying food waste.
The crucial distinction is that augers convey material using a helical screw, where the transfer speed is directly related to the screw’s rotation speed.
Conversely, tubular drag cable conveyors transfer material between two discs pulled by a sealed cable, specifically designed to reliably protect delicate coffee products and blends. This capability not only minimizes potential product damage but also enhances the value of the coffee and the brand.