Screw conveyors are a widely used asset in various industries to move bulk materials vertically, horizontally, or at an inclined angle. At times, sizing them can be a daunting task as it involves a lot of factors that need to be considered for the conveyor to handle the material reliably.
When given the task of sizing a screw conveyor, here are some of the factors that must be considered:
Material Properties
Knowing the material to be conveyed is crucial, as this would dictate the screw diameter, pitch, and speed selection. The design of the conveyor is also affected by factors such as bulk density, particle size, moisture content, and flowability.
Capacity Requirements
Capacity is usually expressed in cubic feet per hour (ft³/h) or cubic meters per hour (m³/h). Determining the required capacity is essential in choosing the correct screw conveyor diameter to be used and depends on the product’s weight and the desired production rate.
Screw Diameter and Pitch
Determining the screw diameter depends on many factors, such as the rate of conveyed material, trough fill level, the density of the material, and the speed of the screw. The screw diameter determines the conveying capacity and is typically selected based on standardized sizes. Common diameters range from 6 to 24 inches (15 cm to 61 cm). The pitch refers to the distance between successive flights on the screw. It affects the volume of material moved per revolution.
Power Requirements
Calculating the power needed to drive the conveyor involves considering the material’s characteristics, conveyor length, incline angle, and other factors. The power requirements determine the selection of an appropriate motor and drive system.
These are just some factors you must consider when sizing a screw conveyor. For more information on how to properly size a screw conveyor, visit us here today at KC Supply Co.