How it works and what it targets
Pneumatic conveying moves powder through pipes using a pressure difference between the gas source and receiver. Solids loading, velocity, bends, elevation and gas conditions jointly affect capacity, attrition, wear and plugging. Selection starts with the material and route, not horizontal distance or pipe diameter alone.
Reference process steps
- 1Meter material from a feeder or pressure vessel and sequence isolation valves.
- 2Convey to the receiver with gas and pressure control suited to the route.
- 3Separate gas and solids, filter and discharge; condition return gas in closed loops.
Configuration and operating conditions
Positive-pressure dense phase
Pressure-vessel feeding conveys at a relatively high solids-to-gas ratio for powders with demonstrated stable transport. Pressure, valve timing and gas flow must work together; dense phase does not guarantee low wear for every material.
Positive/negative-pressure dilute phase
Material travels as a more dispersed gas–solid stream. Vacuum assists pickup and multiple feed points; positive-pressure systems are configured around receivers and pressure drop. Check post-transfer size changes for fragile powders.
Closed-loop nitrogen
For materials requiring controlled oxygen or moisture exposure, add sealing, return-gas filtration, monitoring and make-up gas. Material requirements determine gas purity and atmosphere targets.
Acceleration chambers and valves
Acceleration chambers manage pickup and adhesion at entry. Inflatable-seal butterfly valves and high-pressure sealing valves provide isolation; ceramic diverters combine routing and wear resistance. Selection requires medium, pressure, duty cycle and cleaning requirements.
Information needed for selection
Provide bulk density, flowability, moisture, size, fragility/abrasion/adhesion, rate, horizontal/vertical distance, bends, endpoint layout and gas supply.
Discuss selection inputsTrial and acceptance considerations
Acceptance covers stable conveying, residue, blockage-recovery arrangements, size before/after transfer, energy, sealing and filtration. Distance and gas use are calculated for the actual route.