Dense Phase
Conveying
CONCEPT
In dry materials handling, the product being conveyed and the
application are used to determine the best type of conveying system. High
abrasive products and those subject to degradation move best through a
high pressure, low velocity conveying system. On long distance, high rate
applications, a high pressure-low velocity system can offer energy
savings. Smoot Co.'s Dense Phase Pneumatic Conveying System is such a
system. Unlike dilute phase systems, there is not an airlock feeder for
introduction into the line. Dense phase uses a pressure vessel or
transporter. While airlocks are normally limited to a pressure
differential of only 15 psig, dense phase transporters have no pressure
limitation. With their high pressure capability, dense phase systems allow
for higher rates and lower velocities in the same line size. Slugs of
product can be "pushed" through while dilute phase suspends all
product in the airstream. Dense phase could be your best
choice-particularly if you are dealing with abrasive products or products
that degrade. Smoot Co. designs and manufactures both dense phase and
dilute phase systems. We will help you select the best system for your
application.
FEATURES
A key feature of a Smoot Co. dense phase conveying system is the
exclusive air management system. By using a pressure control regulator,
airflow control orifice and bypass valve, total air flow to the system and
product-to-air ratio (the combination of air flow and conveying rate) are
automatically controlled at the vessel. When air flow and product-to-air
ratio are not accurately controlled, boosters or trace air lines are
required. Not only are they expensive to purchase and install, but they
will add air to the system. Added air creates higher energy requirements
and increased line velocity. Our methods: saves money, allows easy access
because all controls are located on the pot, installation is easier and
more affordable. Friction in a conveying line can only be overcome by
pressure, not air flow. Air flow can increase or decrease friction, but
pressure is the energy consumed to overcome the friction. The amount of
pressure it takes to overcome friction is a function of product-to-air
ratio, conveying line diameter, and conveying line length. Since line
diameter and length are set, the only variable is product-to-air ratio. If
the product-to-air ratio can be controlled, pressure can be controlled.
The key to unsurpassed system efficiency, reliability, flexibility, and
overall performance is accurate control of air flow and product-to-air
ratio at the vessel. At Smoot Co., we are so confident of the superiority
of our air management system that we include air flow meters on all of our
dense phase systems. These tell you exactly how much valuable compressed
air is being consumed. Smoot Co. is an American Welding Society and
American Society of Mechanical Engineers qualified shop. All vessels are
built to these standards. Smoot Co. has complete test facilities for both
top and bottom discharge transporters.
Our
state-of-the-art test facility will provide definitive answers for
your most cost effective pneumatic conveying equipment choices. We can
simulate real world conveying environments, using the material you supply,
and provide you with detailed performance reports and equipment
recommendations.
BOTTOM OR TOP DISCHARGE
When handling a granular or non-fluidizable product, Smoot Co.
recommends a bottom discharge transporter. The principle of operation is
the same, except that the bypass valve causes slug formations instead of
steady state product-to-air-ratio. When handling a fluidizable product,
Smoot Co. recommends the use of a top discharge transporter.
Single
Vessel Batch Conveying Operation
Dual
Vessel Continous Conveying Operation