-
ABOUT US
-
-
SERVICE
-
Blockages in Pneumatic Conveying Systems
Release Date:
2026-01-23
Author:
Pneumatic conveying is a complex multiphase flow process; the motion of solid particles within the conveying pipe involves various factors, such as the distribution of gas flow velocity and friction between the particles and the pipe wall. The motion of solid particles within the conveying pipe involves both rolling and suspension, whilst collisions occur between particles and between particles and the pipe wall; furthermore, the rotation of the particles generates lift. Taking all these factors fully into account is a highly complex task. Although extensive research has been conducted in this field over many years, numerous issues remain unresolved. For example, as bulk materials are carried by the gas flow within the pipeline, collisions occur between particles and between particles and the pipe walls; these collisions result in particle fragmentation and pipeline wear, a phenomenon that becomes increasingly pronounced at high velocities.
To mitigate these phenomena, the velocity of the conveying airflow can be reduced; however, this may lead to flow instability or even blockages. Furthermore, the conveying efficiency of the system is a significant issue. Factors such as the size, hardness, and viscosity of the material being conveyed, as well as the characteristics of the conveying system itself, interact and collectively determine the efficiency of pneumatic conveying. Considering the conveying performance from a comprehensive perspective thus becomes highly complex. The behaviour of the gas-solid two-phase flow within the system directly affects its stable and efficient operation. Therefore, to optimise the design of a pneumatic conveying system, it is essential to understand the characteristics and patterns of this two-phase flow during operation, and to conduct in-depth research into the flow behaviour of solid particles within the pipelines.
In the study of pneumatic conveying, blockages in the conveying equipment’s pipelines represent a significant and complex issue. If a pneumatic conveying system is poorly designed or deviates from normal operating conditions, blockages may occur during the conveying process. Sudden blockages will disrupt normal production; in severe cases, they will cause the system to shut down, affecting both normal production and equipment safety, and resulting in financial losses. At present, there remains a lack of in-depth research, both domestically and internationally, into the mechanisms underlying pipeline blockages and their prevention and control. Current system design practices rely, firstly, on trial-and-error approaches, at the cost of increased operating expenses; secondly, they do not incorporate measures for the active control of blockages. When a blockage occurs, normal production is suspended to clear it by purging with compressed air; alternatively, air may be diverted mid-conveyance to clear the blockage, but these methods are complex to operate and also increase costs.
To better resolve the issue of blockages and achieve active control and prevention during the production process, it is essential to understand the state of particle flow—that is, the flow behaviour of the gas-solid two-phase flow—in pneumatic conveying systems under different operating conditions (such as air flow rate and load ratio)—that is, the flow behaviour of the gas-solid two-phase flow—to establish the relationship between operating conditions and particle flow. This will enable the identification of the causes and mechanisms of blockages, the formulation of control measures, and the achievement of targeted, proactive control, thereby enhancing the reliability of system operation and conserving energy.
Keywords:
Leave a Message Online
Providing your phone number and email address will help us contact you promptly and resolve your issue as quickly as possible.
Minco Intelligent Equipment Technology (Nantong) Co., Ltd.
Phone: +86-513-69962378
Address: No. 299, Yunlan Road, Pingchao Town, Tongzhou District, Nantong City, Jiangsu Province, China.
Quick Navigation
WeChat QR code