A design programme for dilute phase pneumatic conveyors
Date
1997-12
Authors
Wodrich, Karsten H. K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
A computer programme for the simulation of dilute phase pneumatic conveying of solids is
presented. This includes positive pressure and vacuum pneumatic conveying. The characteristic
conveying parameters such as the conveying absolute pressure, conveying air density,
interstitial and average air velocity, particle velocity and voidage are calculated by integrating
five differential equations that govern two-phase flow. The two-phase flow is approximated as
one-dimensional along the pipe axis. Density and acceleration effects are accounted for. The
integration is carried out by means of the Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg method yielding conveying
parameter traces along the length ofthe pipeline.
A new method is presented for the determination of the solids friction coefficient from the
solids motion equation. This allows for a more accurate determination of the solids velocity in
the pipeline when compared to currently used methods. The computer model results are
compared to experimental results for cement and ice conveying yielding good correlation for
the main output parameters.
The theory for the scaling and calculation of Roots blower performance characteristics is
presented. This is implemented in a Roots blower selection programme as an integral part of
determining the prime air mover for the design of a pneumatic conveyor.
The aim of providing a fast, user-friendly interface in terms of pipeline geometry input,
simulation and data visualisation has been achieved by using the advantages of object
orientated programming and the visual user interface of the DELPHI programming language.
Description
Thesis (MScEng (Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 1997.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Mechanical engineering, Theses -- Mechanical engineering, Pneumatic-tube transportation -- Data processing, Bulk solids handling -- Data processing