Reduction of power consumption for pneumatic conveying of wet granular materials

Pneumatic conveyance of wet granular material was investigated, focusing on the reduction of power consumption. Flow patterns at various water contents were modelled and the physical properties of particles as well as the conveyance pressure drop were measured for polystyrene pellet conveying. Effects of vibration conditions on the pressure drop and conveyance efficiency were investigated. Favorable water content and vibration conditions were found to reduce the power consumption. It was confirmed that liquefaction resulted from a multiplier effect of water addition and vibration and contributed considerably to reduction of power consumption and prevention of choking. The applicability of these results was confirmed with actual devices.