Pneumatic Conveying Systems: Compressed Air for Efficient Material Handling

Pneumatic conveying systems efficiently move small bulk solids, powders, granules, and similar materials from one place to the next. Carefully designed pipelines keep material clean and moving smoothly for processing, blending dry ingredients, packaging, and other operations.

The heart of any pneumatic conveying system is compressed air. Companies across Illinois and Iowa trust Delta Industries for air compressors tailored to their application. Learn more about how these systems work, the components in them, and the advantages of choosing a compressed air solution from Delta.

How Pneumatic Conveying Systems Work

Pneumatic conveying systems use air pressure to move bulk materials like powders, grains, granules, and other tiny solids through a closed pipeline. A custom system can be designed specifically for the product, space, and other process parameters of an application for streamlined operations.

These systems eliminate or significantly reduce manual handling and labor, while improving sanitation and product quality.

Key applications for pneumatic conveyance include:

  • Food and beverage production
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Chemical processing
  • Plastics manufacturing

Components in Pneumatic Conveying Systems

Typical system components include:

  • Blowers or Compressors. These critical pieces of equipment pressurize and/or blow compressed air or nitrogen through the pipes at sufficient pressures to move bulk solids.
  • Pipelines. The material moves through enclosed pipes and tubing that extend from one point to the next. They are designed for smooth product flow without blockage or contamination.
  • Feeders and Discharge Valves. Rotary airlocks, screw feeders, and vacuum receivers control inflow and outflow of solids and regulate pressure.
  • Filters. Filters maintain cleanliness throughout the system by trapping dust, particles, and impurities to keep them out of the product.
  • Hoppers and Silos. These vessels hold and store product at the beginning or end of the conveying system. Integrated outlets form a secure connection between the vessel and the pipeline.
  • Control Systems. Automated control systems make it easy to monitor and manage air pressure, material flow rates, and overall performance for greater process consistency and control.
  • Material Flow Aids. Devices to create vibration within the pipeline, or special pads to fluidize material can be installed to keep product flowing and eliminate the risk of clogs.

The experts at Delta will audit your application and determine your specific compressed air requirements for efficient conveyance. This will help you select the best option for the system.

Benefits of Pneumatic Conveying Systems

Opting for pneumatic conveying driven by Delta’s Kaeser air compressor equipment has several benefits, such as:

  • Cost-Effectiveness. We use equipment that is “right-sized” for your application, saving equipment and installation costs. Further, investing in a clean, reliable conveying system reduces waste due to spills or contamination.
  • Increased Efficiency. Configuring the system to streamline processes lowers operational costs and saves time per cycle.
  • Safety and Cleanliness. Pipelines are fully enclosed, and include filters and seals to protect against moisture, pests, contamination, and spoilage.
  • Customizability. Air compressors, vacuums, and blowers can be tailored to the material and process, such as oil-free compressors or rotary screw powered blowers and vacuums.

Why Choose Delta Industries for Compressed Air?

At Delta Industries, we provide advanced pneumatic conveying systems that are engineered for maximum reliability and performance. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Tailored Solutions: We design systems based on the unique requirements of your materials and processes.
  • Expert Guidance: Our engineers ensure you understand how to optimize your system for peak productivity and profitability.
  • Adaptable Designs: Stay ahead of industry changes with systems designed for tomorrow’s needs.
  • Commitment to Safety: Our products prioritize operator safety with straightforward preventative maintenance and dependable performance.

How Pneumatic Conveying Systems Maximize ROI

A custom design that fits your product and process begins to pay for itself immediately by cutting waste and boosting productivity. The keys to this are integrating system components for efficient transfer of product, keeping the product in top condition, and sizing air compressor equipment to the needs of the application. What’s more, replacing manual transfer processes with a conveying system cuts manual labor and avoids spills and downtime.

Savings Table

Feature Pneumatic Conveying Systems Traditional Conveyors
Initial Cost Moderate High
Operational Efficiency High Moderate
Maintenance Cost Low High
Material Loss Minimal Moderate

Contact Delta Industries for Your Pneumatic Conveying Needs

At Delta Industries, we bring compressed air expertise and years of experience to customers in Illinois and Iowa. Contact us for a quote to discuss your application and learn how a pneumatic conveying system can improve operations at your facility.