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Pneumatic conveying system (4 replies)
The engineer typically has four choices in specifying a pneumatic conveying system.
2. Dilute phase pressure operation
3. Dilute phase pressure-vacuum operation
4. Dense phase pressure operation
Vacuum systems allow multiple product inlets through the use of simple diverter valves. However, it becomes costly to have multiple destinations because each must have its own filter receiver with partial vacuum capability. Vacuum systems are also more "distance sensitive" than pressure systems due to the maximum pressure differential of 5.5 to 6.0 psi. Dilute phase pressure systems can easily achieve pressure differentials of 12 psi. Pressure-vacuum operation (utilizing both methods) are sometimes ideal for a given conveying setup. A very common application is the unloading of a standard railcar. Since the cars cannot be pressurized, air is pulled from the outside, through the car (carrying solids with it) to a filter. Then after the filter, a blower can be used to forward the solids to the final receiver.
The choice between dilute and dense phase operation is typically dependent on the solids properties. For example, the lower velocity bulk phase operation is popular for highly abrasive products or for those that degrade easily.
Presuming the clay is relatively high purity, it will not be abrasive. Also, your 4" line suggests modest capacity. My recommendation would be a dilute phase pressure operation. You will need to ascertain the minimum pipe velocity necessary to maintain the product in suspension. You can then calculate system losses and work back to the blower requirements.
Try Tenova - Delkor - Bateman at the following website for assistance
Tenova acquired Bateman Engineering on the eve of 2012. Bateman Engineering designed, supplied and installed a 500m + pneumonic dryer facility for Debswana operation - Jwaneng Mine Aquarium Plant in 1999/2000, for the recovery plant tailings. They have another successful installation in the Anglo Platinum Mine near Rusternburg, RSA.
I trust that Tenova-Delkor integrated Bateman expertise and services in their merger so they can assist you with a tailor made unit for your operation. They provide excellent after sales/market support. Our unit is still in operation 15 years later, with over 10 vertical lifts and drops and multiple curves/bends. They have a global footprint and you can find their facilities closest to you.
A first step would be to estimate the TPH (target, min, max) and the required system availability.
The product we need to transport with a blower is fine clay below 325 mesh. The clay has less than 1% moist and "flys" easily. The clay has to travel through a 4 inch pipe diameter for 30 meters, of which 20 are horizontal and 10 vertical. The circuit has two turns or elbows and discharges on a silo.
Please, if you could help on choosing the correct equipment for this task it would be good, or how to design a system!