Pneumatic Conveying Technology: Recent Advances and Future Outlook

Abstract

Pneumatic conveying is a vital technology for delivering bulk solids, powders, and granular materials in various industries. Significant advances in pneumatic conveying technology have occurred in recent years, spurred by the demand for sustainable and energy-efficient industrial processes. This paper explores the current advances in pneumatic conveying technology and their implications for the industry. First, the principles of pneumatic conveying are discussed. Then, two significant advances in pneumatic conveying technology are highlighted. Schenck Process, for example, has created the Enhanced Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying (EDIP) system, the E-Finity continuous dense phase system, and high-pressure systems utilizing Lontra’s LP2 Compressor Blower. Second, Palamatic Process provides dense-phase vacuum conveying cyclones as well as powder pumps for nonabrasive dense-phase vacuum conveying. Several research gaps in pneumatic conveying technology are identified in the paper, including the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the optimization of multiphase flow behavior, energy efficiency and sustainability, material degradation, and particle damage, handling of cohesive and difficult-to-convey materials, scale-up and design optimization, and real-time monitoring and control systems. The future outlook highlights the potential of sustainable practices to advance pneumatic conveying technology further. The integration of these technologies can lead to improved performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability in pneumatic conveying systems.

Keywords

• pneumatic conveying
• Schenck Process
• Palamatic Process
• cyclones