Flexible Screw Conveyors Advantages and Disadvantages

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Flexible Screw Conveyors

Flexible screw conveyors are a popular choice in various industries for transporting bulk materials. Their unique design and operational benefits make them suitable for a wide range of applications. However, like any equipment, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

Versatility: Flexible screw conveyors can handle a wide variety of materials, including powders, granules, pellets, and flakes. This makes them suitable for industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and construction
Cost-Effectiveness: These conveyors are generally less expensive to install and operate compared to other conveying systems. Their simple design and efficient energy consumption contribute to a high return on investment
Low Maintenance: With fewer moving parts, flexible screw conveyors have a lower risk of breakdowns and require less maintenance. They are designed to be easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance, reducing operational downtime
Space Efficiency: The flexible nature of the tube allows the conveyor to navigate around obstacles and be configured in layouts that other conveyors cannot achieve. This is particularly beneficial in facilities with limited space
Dust Control: For applications involving fine or potentially hazardous materials, flexible screw conveyors can be equipped with enclosed tubes to help contain dust and protect the material from contamination
Ease of Cleaning: These conveyors can be quickly stripped down for cleaning, and optional quick-release and hygienic fittings aid in clean-down efforts. This is especially important in industries with strict hygiene requirements

Disadvantages

Material Limitations: Flexible screw conveyors are not suitable for all materials. Fragile or friable materials can suffer particle attrition or breakage due to the grinding action between the rotating screw and the tube wall. Materials with high moisture content or those that are cohesive can smear and accumulate within the conveyor, causing the screw to lock up
Wear and Tear: Coarse and abrasive materials can cause accelerated wear and tear on the conveyor components. This can lead to increased maintenance costs and reduced equipment lifespan.
Limited Conveying Distance: Flexible screw conveyors are generally recommended for moving materials over distances no greater than 40 feet. Beyond this distance, their efficiency and effectiveness can diminish
Capacity Constraints: The capacity of flexible screw conveyors is limited by several factors, including material bulk density, particle size, screw pitch, rotational speed, tube diameter, and length. This means they may not be suitable for high-capacity applications.
Operational Angle: These conveyors work best at a 45° angle but can also operate horizontally and at other angles. However, any variation in the angle can affect their efficiency.

In conclusion, flexible screw conveyors offer numerous benefits, including versatility, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance. However, they also have limitations that need to be considered when selecting the right conveyor for your application. Understanding these advantages and disadvantages will help you make an informed decision and ensure optimal performance for your material handling needs.

Ask the experts at Erie Technical Systems Inc. if a FlexMAX Flexible Screw Conveyor is right for your application.