Comparing dilute- and dense-phase conveying
In this column, we'll return to a topic last covered in the July 1991 column and compare dilute- and dense-phase pneumatic conveying systems. A dilute-phase system is commonly called a stream-flow system; a dense-phase system can be one of several types. To help you understand how each system works, this column describes and illustrates each system and provides a table comparing each system's typical performance under various operating conditions.
Before discussing the systems, let's look at two terms - saltation velocity and choking velocity - that describe how material behaves in horizontal and vertical airstreams.