Pneumatically conveyed solid materials inevitably impact pipe walls and other particles, which can create processing and equipment problems. Provided here is an outline of potential problems related to particle impacts and the physics behind them Among the defining features of…
Improvements provide finer grinding at lower energy costs compared to air-swept classifying mills that have long reigned supreme in particle-size-reduction efforts For decades, the ultimate performance in fine mechanical milling performance has been provided by the air-swept classifying mill (ASCM).…
Dust management can be divided into three main categories: prevention, containment and suppression. Understanding the key considerations for each can help bulk solids handlers arrive at an optimal dust control solution Dust management is an ongoing issue faced by virtually…
The latest NFPA standard applies to many industry sectors, and aims to address the fragmented nature of the industry-specific standards currently in place On September 7, 2015, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA; Quincy, Mass.; www.nfpa.org) issued NFPA 652 (Standard…
When hoppers are designed without consideration of the actual materials being handled, problems inevitably arise. Follow this guidance to avoid common solids-handling issues, such as erratic flow and no flow Pivotal work on the development of the theory of bulk…
How shear-cell testing provides a basis for predicting flow behavior Powder jams are the once-in-a-month catastrophe that can bring processing operations to a standstill. Whether it’s erratic flow behavior or complete stoppage of solids discharge, the consequence is the same.…
Modern powder-testing methods can offer valuable insights into bulk material behavior and lead to efficient powder-processing solutions Process simulation is a powerful tool for engineers in the chemical process industries (CPI) and one that plays an important role in commercializing…
Accurate measurements of exposures to aerosols and dusts by plant personnel can be tricky. Here is some help for determining exposures and addressing uncertainties Uncontrolled aerosols (defined as suspensions of fine solid or liquid particles in gaseous media) in the…
Material- and energy-balance models can help to identify potential opportunities The processing of mined minerals in aboveground facilities relies on several energy- intensive unit operations, such as comminution, screening and material transport. Crushing operations typically produce a wide distribution of…
Despite their apparent simplicity, the complexity of these conveying systems demands proper design and an understanding of the underlying principles Screw conveyors play a major role in a wide variety of industrial operations that involve the handling of bulk solids.…