Depends on the installation. The pipe conveyor can usually be set up to do well with varying loads when in a straight line.

When the pipe has to bend vertically and more so horizontally, the pipe tends to twist or cork screw with changing loads. The conveyor can be tuned, through roll steering positions, to keep the seam up with a load, but not all loads. However, there is a caveat to this. This assumes the belt tensions do no vary from this setup position. Thus, when be ambient temperature, or internal temperature ( hot product), or moisture is applied between belt and idler (rain), etc. vary the steering friction constants, then twisting will ocurr.

There are methods to counter this but ususally have their own problems.

Lawrence Nordell

Conveyor Dyanmics, Inc. ■

Dear Shri Suresh,

As can be seen from Mr. Nordell’s reply, it is better to have somewhat steadier feed. So, you can think of incorporating a feature in your system (such as transition storage etc. at the starting point of the concerned section of the system) to ensure more regulated feed.

Regards,

Ishwar G Mulani.

Author of Book : Engineering Science and Application Design for Belt Conveyors.

Advisor / Consultant for Bulk Material Handling System & Issues.

Email : parimul@pn2.vsnl.net.in

Tel.: 0091 (0)20 25882916 ■

Hello

The extent to which a pipe conveyor requires controlled feed depends on its design fill and lump size generally at its maximum design fill of say 75% the maximum lump size is 1/3rd of the pipe diameter so in this case a controlled feed is desirable to avoid overfill.

With lower design fills a larger lump size can be accommodated. ■

Hi,

the application of a specific item depends very much on the material charcterisitcs of your iron ore. I had once to deal with a fine iron ore which was sticky as sh... For such a material I would definitly recommend a controlled feeding solution. If the pipe is used to sqeeze the ore in shape the system will not work properly.

Holger ■

Dear Mr. Suresh,

In my openion for pipe conveyor design controlled feed is a must other-wish one must have problem of rotation of pipe & spillage. However, there are installation where there is no controlled feed to pipe conveyor.

Regards.

A.Banerjee ■