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Environmental Protection And Energy Saving Advantages Of Pneumatic Conveying Systems In The Uk Food Processing Industry

What Is a Pneumatic Conveying System And Its Application
A pneumatic conveying system utilizes airflow and pressure differential, generated by an air-moving device like a fan, roots blower, or compressor, to transfer dry bulk products or powders through a closed pipeline. This method of conveying is cost-effective and minimizes material loss, making it suitable for various industries such as food and beverage, pet food, chemicals and detergents, renewable energy, and specialty materials.
How do pneumatic conveyors work?
Pneumatic conveyors utilize pressure differentials and gas flow to effectively transfer fine, dry material within enclosed tubes or pipes. This method involves adjusting the pressure on either side of the tube, often with the aid of a blower, to induce the movement of the material. These conveyors are commonly used for handling small, dry, and low-bulk-density items such as wheat, sugar, and cement powder. They are also suitable for various applications involving the transport of powders, grains, flakes, and dry bulk, such as burner feeders, metal powder transporters, and recycling processes.

Compared to other conveyor types, pneumatic conveyors are less expensive to purchase and can easily navigate existing equipment, making them a versatile solution for designers. However, they may require more energy to operate and can be prone to clogging and increased wear on the system. Despite these limitations, they offer a faster and more efficient way to transport materials without causing damage.
How do you classify pneumatic conveying?
Lean phase and dense phase pneumatic conveying are two methods of airflow conveying materials. The most common method is lean phase conveying, which can be divided into two categories based on the conveying gas velocities and pressure or vacuum. Dilute phase conveying is suitable for non-abrasive materials with low bulk densities and often utilizes a fan or side channel blower/exhauster. Medium phase conveying typically has higher gas velocities and conveying pressures and is often achieved using a Roots Blower/Exhauster.

Dense phase conveying, on the other hand, has lower gas velocities but higher conveying pressures and is suitable for long-distance transportation or fragile/abrasive materials. This method usually utilizes a compressor or liquid ring pump as the air movement equipment.
Advantages of pneumatic conveying.
A pneumatic transfer system offers flexible routing capabilities, making it ideal for use around existing equipment. It can run long distances both vertically and horizontally due to its compact conveying pipe. With an enclosed design, there is no risk of dust emissions or outside contaminants compromising the transferred material. Additionally, fewer moving parts result in easier and more cost-effective maintenance than mechanical conveying systems.

This system also allows for controlled environments to protect sensitive substances and minimize wear from abrasive materials. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to find space and multiple pick-up and discharge locations are possible.


Pneumatic conveying’s drawbacks.
Pneumatic conveying systems may not be as effective as mechanical conveyors due to their reliance on changing air pressure for conveying power. They are commonly limited to smaller volumes of material, but can also handle larger throughput if needed. Additionally, a larger dust collection system may be required since pneumatic conveyors must retrieve dust at the end of the process. It should be noted that materials with high bulk densities, larger particles, or those that are sticky or moist may not be suitable for pneumatic conveying.

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