Precision Flow Control For Efficient, Accurate Pneumatic Conveying Systems
Pneumatic conveying provides an effective, enclosed transport system for manufacturing, handling and processing applications where small particles, grains, pellets and powders are required.
These flexible transport systems offer a number of handling advantages over more conventional mechanical systems as well as being able to deliver precision flow control.
Modern environmental control standards can be difficult to maintain when working with powders and small particles as part of a manufacturing process. One of the most effective solutions is to use pneumatic conveying, which also offers a number of benefits when compared to more traditional methods.
- Reduced maintenance, due to the lack of moving parts
- Improved operational environment with no dust thanks to the fully enclosed design
- System flexibility that allows for multiple drop points and considerable transfer distances
- The possibility to carry out physical mixing or chemical reactions during the conveying process
- The ability to convey air-sensitive materials using an inert gas, such as nitrogen, to prevent oxidation
Pneumatic conveying is used by a wide range of industries including food and beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical and power generation. The main challenges for those operating a pneumatic conveying system are keeping the consistency of the product and maintaining a precise controllable flow of the product.
However, the modern manufacturing enterprise must also operate as efficiently as possible and this means reducing costs and improving productivity.
Effective and precise process control can have a major influence on manufacturing efficiency but in the past this could provide a significant challenge to those with pneumatic conveying systems.
One recent innovation from Bürkert uses a closed loop controller, pressure sensors and a control valve, all combined into a single unit. The Type 8750 flow rate controller provides an automated air flow control solution that can reduce operating costs and improve productivity through better flow control and management of the compressors.
The flow rate control system is supplied as a complete assembly that negates the requirement for a separate flow meter. Using the pressure difference across the valve and the given density and temperature of the medium, a nominal flow can be calculated, providing the flow characteristics of the valve to the process controller.
One example of this system delivering benefits to a production process involved a company that manufactures tyres and uses carbon black, a fine powder, as part of the process. The powder is conveyed from a storage tank to a mixer using a dense phase pneumatic system.
The tyre manufacturer selected the Type 8750 flow control because it is able to maintain a consistent dense phase transport method, while using compressor energy efficiently. Furthermore, when the pipes needed to be emptied, a very high flow rate was required and the Type 8750 was also able to achieve this.
Due to the compact nature of the Bürkert flow rate controller it is simple to install in-line and can be easily integrated into the existing process control infrastructure. From both a mechanical and an electrical perspective this innovative product is designed for simplicity, accuracy and reliability.
A video has been produced which features Thomas Sattler, Team Coach Application Management Gas, a product expert describing how the Type 8750 offers end-users a cost effective solution that will minimise damage to the process materials and increase productivity by providing better flow control and management of the pneumatic compressors.
It also highlights how it improves the energy efficiency of the manufacturing process and helps system integrators to provide an effective solution that is straightforward to install and reliably delivers reduced operating and maintenance costs.
Helen Christopher
Bürkert Fluid Control Systems
Fluid Control Centre, 1 Bridge End, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1QY, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1285 648720 Fax: +44 (0)1285 648721
Web: www.burkert.co.uk
Email: helen.christopher@burkert.com
Burkert Fluid Control Systems
- 01285648720
- sales.uk@burkert.com
- http://www.burkert.com/
- Fluid Control Centre 1 Bridge End Gloucestershire Cirencester GL7 1QY GB
About us
Bürkert is present in thirtyfive countries around the world. We also work with a large network of distributors and partners, which means we are as close as possible to our customers. This global presence ensures full service and support to all of our customers in every country around the world. Research is the lifeblood of our company.
At Bürkert, we are never satisfied with the status quo and are continually seeking new technologies and solutions for our customers. Every year, our people develop new and highly advanced products and solutions, ranging from integrated process measurement and control units to the most sophisticated systems used in pharmaceutical research. To be a market leader, we are also an R&D leader.
Therefore, our investment in research & development is one of the highest in our industry. In our research centres in Germany and France, 150 people are committed to working for a common future for our company and our customers. We are committed to offering our expertise wherever it is needed, anywhere in the world. This global presence ensures that our advances in fluid control technology are also global.
What we do in a nutshell
Manufacture of process equipment. One of the few manufacturers to provide solutions for the complete control loop.
Where we supply to
UK Ireland, Europe
Industries we supply to
Food and Beverage, Pharmaceutical Cosmetics Toiletries, Water and Wastewater
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