Pneumatic Conveying System Design
While a considerable number of variables play a role in choosing the most suitable pneumatic conveying system, the most critical aspects are related to understanding the following:
A. Material to be conveyed and its flow regime
Many materials and their flow regimes are well known to an expert system designer. However, analyzing a small sample of the material is always recommended. Some materials may require a full pneumatic conveying test to confirm the conveying regime. Whatever the material, it is important to determine the following material characterization:
Particle size
Bulk density
Moisture content
Flowability
Chemistry
Abrasiveness
Friability
Temperature
Permeability
B. System Design Objectives
In addition to understanding the material and the regime in which it conveys optimally, it is critical to understand what is required from the system. Is degradation an issue? What is the distance to be conveyed? What is the conveying rate? The following criteria must be taken into consideration when designing the most successful system solution:
Transfer rate
Transfer or injection
Positive or negative pressure
Distance and conveying route
Feed considerations
Conveying medium type
Material integrity
Velocity/pipe wear
Operating cost
A well-designed pneumatic conveying system will carefully consider the above factors to create a unique solution with maximum benefits for each application.