The first step in considering vacuum conveying is defining the upstream process from which material will be sourced. This can include loss-in-weight feeders, volumetric feeders, mixers, reactors and extruder hoppers. The type of operation—whether batch or continuous—will impact how your system handles the incoming powders. The next factor to consider is the bulk density of your powder. This will determine the size of your receivers, as well as your conveying velocity. For example, lighter-weight powders need larger receivers than heavier-weight materials.
Once you have your material flow figured out, the next step is to select the type of vacuum conveying system that will best suit your needs. You can choose from two basic systems: Dilute Phase and Dense Phase. Dilute phase transports slugs of powder in the air stream and is ideal for segregation-free blending applications. Dense phase transports bulk solids in a dense, non-flowing state, making it suitable for conveying high-capacity products over short to medium distances from multiple sources to one destination. For a Vacuum conveying System, consider Aptech who specialise in Vacuum conveying System services.
Your final consideration should be your facility’s floor space, as vacuum conveyors have a much smaller footprint than mechanical conveyance equipment. They can also be mounted on mobile or column lift conveyors to easily load or unload process vessels from above, eliminating the need for workers to be exposed to hazardous conditions.
For the most demanding powder transfer applications, turnkey pre-engineered systems are a great option.