How vertical flow effects and material characteristics affect discharge — Part I
Are you new to bulk materials handling? Or would you like a refresher on some material flow basics? This two-part article takes a look at how various factors affect material discharge from storage vessels. Part I covers vertical flow effects and material characteristics, with related information about conducting a hand test to identify those characteristics. Part II, which will appear next month, discusses application factors that can affect discharge and methods for promoting smooth discharge from storage vessels.
Bulk material discharge -- that is, vertical flow -- from a storage vessel may sound simple. With a few materials, it is. But with many others, flow problems can slow or even stop discharge. Looking at some basics about vertical flow from storage vessels will help you understand why.