A vacuum feeder, also known as a pneumatic vacuum conveyor, is a type of material handling system used to transport powders, granules, and other dry bulk materials in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, chemicals, and plastics. Here’s a detailed overview of vacuum feeders and how they operate:
Components and Operation:
- Vacuum Pump: A vacuum feeder typically includes a vacuum pump that generates suction to create a negative pressure inside a closed conveying pipeline or tube.
- Conveying Pipeline: The material to be conveyed is drawn into the conveying pipeline or tube by the vacuum created by the vacuum pump.
- Material Inlet: At the material source (such as a hopper or silo), a pickup wand or suction nozzle is used to draw the material into the conveying pipeline.
Applications:
- Chemicals: Transporting various chemical powders for processing.
- Food Processing: Conveying flour, sugar, spices, and other ingredients.
- Pharmaceuticals: Handling powders and granules for manufacturing medicines.
- Plastics: Conveying plastic pellets and powders for molding and extrusion processes.