An Electromechanical Valve for Solids

Abstract

The operation and performance of a novel device, the Electromechanical Valve for Solids (EVS), for control of flow of granular materials are described. The EVS applies a DC electric field to the granular material in a dense-phase state. This induces electrical interparticle forces which retard and can ultimately halt the flow, hence providing an actuating mechanism. The EVS has a very fast response time which makes it very useful for fast flow control. The response characteristics of the EVS and the results of flow control using a simple PID control action are reported.