Closed-loop pneumatic conveying: Simple ways to troubleshoot your system without shutting it down
Troubleshooting your closed-loop pneumatic conveying system doesn't always require a costly system shutdown. This article outlines some simple tests you can use to diagnose problems while your system is running. Although this article focuses on closed-loop, dilute-phase pneumatic conveying systems, much of the information can be applied to other pneumatic conveying systems as well.
Slight changes in your closed-loop, dilute-phase pneumatic conveying system's operating conditions - such as capacity changes to adjust to market demand and changes in particle size distribution as you switch from handling one powder to another - can lead to several conveying problems. Over time, these problems can threaten the system's operating stability. While shutting down the system is often a good way to test solutions to conveying problems like these, it can be difficult to convince your company management to take this step. A process shutdown not only results in costly production losses, but may not always lead to a problem solution.