Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying Systems
What is Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying?
Dilute phase pneumatic conveying is a type of pneumatic conveying and a system that moves dry bulk materials through pipes using high-speed air (3,000–7,000 fpm) at low pressure (under 15 psi). The material stays suspended in the airflow, making it ideal for non-fragile, non-abrasive products. It can operate using either pressure or vacuum and requires key components like a blower, feeder, convey line, and filter. Unlike dense phase systems, it relies on high velocity and must be engineered for the specific material being conveyed.
Where Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying Fits in Pneumatic Conveying Systems
The unique processes and material requirements for dilute phase conveying systems ensure that these fit in the overall pneumatic conveying processes with other systems. Dilute phase conveying systems fit into overall pneumatic conveying systems with the following:
- Conveys velocity and solids loading
- Represents a high-velocity, lower-solids loading approach
- Brings one option within the broader pneumatic conveying strategy
- Selected based on application-specific factors and not by default
When Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying is Used
Dilute phase pneumatic conveying is typically used for materials that can tolerate higher conveying velocities, where continuous transfer over moderate to long distances is required. The dilute phase conveying systems are often selected for operational flexibility and integration into larger process systems. Specific applications of dilute phase pneumatic conveying systems include:
- Food ingredient transfer
- Plastic pellets and resin handling
- Chemical powders and additives
- Fly ash and mineral transfer
- Cement and dry bulk materials
- Polymer compounding operations
Key Dilute Phase Conveying System Design Considerations
As part of the comprehensive pneumatic conveying systems, dilute phase systems bring a reliable system that offers great benefits depending on the application. IR Process evaluates these factors during pre-engineering to ensure the system performs as required by examining the following:
- Material Characteristics & Flow Behavior: Particle size distribution, abrasiveness, bulk density, and degradation tolerance
- Conveying Velocity Selection: Balancing sufficient velocity to suspend solids while minimizing excessive wear and product damage
- Pipeline Layout & Routing: Distance, vertical lifts, bend placement, and expansion opportunities
- Air Supply & System Controls: Blower sizing, filtration, pressure stability, and control philosophy
- Wear Management & Maintenance Planning: Elbow design, abrasion-resistant materials, and replaceable wear components
Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying as Part of a Complete Process System
The unique capabilities of dilute-phase pneumatic conveying are just one component of a complete set of equipment systems that IR Process creates. Many additional systems provide other capabilities for maximum efficiency. Dilute phase pneumatic conveying operates with other systems as follows:
- Bulk Storage Silo Systems: End system for dilute phase conveying to move materials into
- Batching Systems: Feeding systems to gather materials
- Screening & Classification Systems: Sorting and separating materials
- Dust Collection Systems: Pollution control to prevent contaminants
- Electrical Controls & Automation: Established controls for operating the dilute phase system
- Downstream Process Equipment: Bagging and packaging of materials
How IR Process Approaches Dilute Pneumatic Conveying System Design
IR Process has provided top process engineering services for customers all across North America. We utilize 40+ years of experience to apply engineering judgement and system-level insight to build solutions that align with each facility’s unique operating requirements. With our design build for industrial process systems, we provide design, supply, installation, and more to build the systems for maximum performance. We stand behind the performance of the systems we design and maintain upkeep to ensure your system is working effectively. IR Process is sure to build the top dilute phase pneumatic processing system for any need. Through IR Process, you can expect:
- Engineering-first, system-driven methodology
- Use of FEL/pre-engineering where appropriate
- Material evaluation and system modeling
- Collaboration with customers (plant owners, managers, and operators)
- Accountability through installation and commissioning
Discuss Your Dilute Phase Conveying Application
For any evaluation of a project, material handling, or conveying need, reach out to determine whether a dilute phase is appropriate for your system. Contact us to discuss your dilute phase pneumatic conveying or any process engineering need. Additionally, get started today by requesting a quote and putting our experience to work for your system.