JIMMA UNIVERSITY

JIMMA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

FACULTY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT INDIVIDUAL ASSEIGNMENT

NAME ID
SIRAWDINK GETACHEW …….………….RU2197/12

Submitted to Mr. Abel Ermias

Submission date January 24, 2024

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Part 1
1. OSCILLATING CONVEYORS
Oscillating conveyors, sometimes known as vibrating conveyors, might not grab the spotlight like
their belt or pneumatic counterparts, but their steady rhythm keeps things moving in countless
industries. This document delves into the world of oscillating conveyors, exploring their principles,
operation, benefits, and limitations.

Oscillating conveyors move materials in a uniform, continuous flow by the upward and forward
oscillating motion of a continuous metal trough, mounted on sturdy inclined reactor legs. The
angle of inclination 𝜶 of the conveyor arm may vary from 25℃ to 30℃.

The movement of the conveyor follows harmonic motion and is governed by the
Equation.

Oscillating Conveyor with Variable Pressure on Deck

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1.1 Basic Designs

Vibrating conveyors generally have similar basic elements.
1. A trough supporting system to direct the motion of the trough.
2. An eccentric drive assembly which is the source of the controlled vibrating motion
applied to the conveyor.

Many designs also include a reactor spring system which alternately stores and releases
energy at each end of the trough stroke.
Reviewing these elements:
1. The trough is the only portion of the vibrating conveyor that comes in contact with the material
being conveyed.
2. The base is primarily a means of mounting the conveyor and is usually of a simple design
incorporating structural steel members.
3. The trough supporting system's primary function is to control and direct the motion of the trough.
4. The drive is the prime element in a vibrating conveyor because it is the source of the controlled
vibration.
5. The reactor spring system can assume many forms including steel coil springs, flexible steel or
glass slats, rubber blocks, circular rubber toroids, and torsion bars.

1.2 Types of Oscillating Conveyors

There are basically three types of oscillating conveyors for light, medium and heavy-duty
service.
a) Flexmount Oscillating Conveyors
• They are used for light duty applications.
• They have simple construction, remarkably rugged, compact and
require minimum maintenance and attention.
• Firmly mounted flat-spring support legs provide sturdy through support
as well as natural frequency spring reaction which keeps drive size
requirement to minimum.
b) Coilmount Oscillating Conveyor
• They are rugged, well reinforced and require minimum maintenance.
The coil springs operate in the natural frequency rang. They are used
for medium duty service.
• The trough is supported by separate legs that are rubber bushed at
articulated points and do not require lubrication.
• The coil spring operate in the natural frequency range and reduce
normal drive requirements.
c) Torqmount Oscillating Conveyor
• They are rugged, dependable and easy to adjust and maintain.
• They are used for heavy and extra duty applications.

1.3 Selection of Oscillating Conveyors

The selection of oscillating conveyors boils down to:
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i) Determining the trough width for the required capacity

ii) Selecting the drive for the required capacity
in the selection of Oscillating Conveyors use conversion table: 1ft = 12” ; 1” = 2.54cm;
1lb = 0.4536kg; 1ft/min =5.08× 1 0-3 m/s; 1hp =0.746kW; 1lb/ft3 =16.018kg/m3.

1.3.1 How to Select a Flexmount Oscillating Conveyor

Refer to Chart A; determine the trough width for the required capacity. Capacities are based on
average material travel of 20 feet per minute with an average depth of bed as indicated.
Refer to Chart B; select the drive for the required capacity and length. Two or more
conveyors may be required.

Charts for Selection of Flexmount Oscillating Conveyor

1.3.2 How to Select a Coilmount Oscillating Conveyor

The Coilmount design lends itself to many special process such as scalping, dewatering, drying
or cooling, and special screen decks, trough covers or cooling hoods can be engineered by Link-
Belt. Coilmount conveyors can be used without special construction to handle materials up to
approximately 2500F. Higher temperature application should be referred to Link-Belt for
recommendation.
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Charts for Selection of Coilmount Oscillating Conveyor

1.3.3 How to Select a Torqmount Oscillating Conveyor

The heavy and extra heavy duty Torqmount Oscillating conveyors complement the Flexmount
and Coilmount by providing greater load carrying capacity and relating maintenance simplicity.
The Torqmount design lends itself to applications which require handling high capacities of
materials such as foundry shakeout sand, castings, coal or crushed rock.

Charts for Selection of Torqmount Oscillating conveyors

1.4 Limitations
Limited Capacity: Not suitable for high-volume material handling.
Material Restrictions: Not ideal for fine powders, liquids, or large objects.
Energy Consumption: Can be less energy-efficient than belt conveyors for certain applications.
Structural Integrity: Vibration can stress the conveyor pan and surrounding structures over time.
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Part 2

2. PNEUMATIC CONVEYORS
Imagine transporting bulk materials like grains, powders, and pellets – not with clunky machinery, but with
the invisible force of air. That's the magic of pneumatic conveying, a technology that uses pressurized gas
to effortlessly move dry bulk materials through a network of pipes. This document delves into the
fascinating world of pneumatic conveyors, exploring their principles, components, advantages, and
limitations.

2.1 The Power of Air:

At the heart of pneumatic conveying lies the simple yet powerful concept of using compressed air as a
transport medium. The gas, typically air but sometimes inert options for safety or specific applications,
flows through a pipeline, creating a suction or pressure that pulls or pushes the material along.

2.2 Types of Pneumatic Conveying:

There are two main types of pneumatic conveying systems:

● Dilute Phase: In this common method, the material concentration in the airstream is relatively low.
The air velocity is high, creating a "fluidized" state for the material, allowing it to flow like a liquid
through the pipes.
● Dense Phase: This method uses lower air velocities and a higher material concentration, resulting in
a "plug" of material moving through the pipeline. It's suitable for conveying abrasive materials and
offering gentler handling for fragile ones.

2.3 Components of a Pneumatic Conveyor System:

A typical pneumatic conveying system consists of several key components:

● Material Feeder: Introduces the material into the airstream.

● Blower or Compressor: Generates the pressurized air.
● Pipeline: Provides the path for the material and air to travel.
● Separation Equipment: Filters and cyclones separate the material from the air at the discharge point.
● Control System: Monitors and regulates system operation.

2.4 Advantages of Pneumatic Conveying:

● Versatility: Handles a wide range of materials, from fine powders to large pellets.
● Flexibility: Reaches difficult locations and navigates complex routes with ease.
● Cleanliness: Enclosed system minimizes dust and contamination.
● Gentle Handling: Minimizes product degradation for fragile materials.
● Automated Operation: Integrates seamlessly with automated processes.

2.5 Limitations of Pneumatic Conveying:

● Higher Energy Consumption: Requires more energy compared to mechanical conveyors.
● Material Compatibility: Not suitable for wet, sticky, or large-particle materials.
● Noise Generation: Blowers and compressors can create noise pollution.
● Dust Control: Requires proper filtration and dust collection systems.
● Higher Initial Investment: Initial setup costs can be higher than other conveyor options.
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2.6 Applications of Pneumatic Conveying:

Pneumatic conveying systems find application in various industries, including:

● Chemical Industry: Transporting powders, granules, and catalysts.

● Food Industry: Conveying grains, flour, and sugar.
● Pharmaceutical Industry: Handling sensitive powders and granules.
● Plastics Industry: Moving plastic pellets and powders.
● Construction Industry: Conveying cement, sand, and aggregates.

2.7 The Future of Pneumatic Conveying:

Technological advancements are shaping the future of pneumatic conveying. Smart sensors monitor
performance and predict potential issues, while automation enhances system control and optimizes energy
consumption. New materials and designs are being developed for pipelines and components to improve
efficiency and durability.

THE END