Variable 'plug' length screw feeder

A new variable plug length screw feeder for the first time gives operators the ability to change the plug length to achieve a consistent flow of material into aggressive industrial processes

Solids handling equipment manufacturer Ajax Equipment has developed a variable plug length screw feeder that for the first time gives operators the ability to change the plug length to achieve a consistent flow of material into aggressive industrial processes.

The plug approach to screw feeding is commonly used when feeding material into environments where there is a significant temperature or pressure differential.

The plug is a controlled build-up of material created at the point where the screw enters the process, protecting the fed material from early exposure to high temperature and preventing ingress of vapours from the process into the screw and feed hopper.

Knowing the optimum plug length to achieve a steady flow is based on experience and often extensive trials.

The Ajax Equipment screw feeder allows the operator to adjust the length of the 'plug' to match or exceed the back pressure on the plug, thus ensuring consistent discharge from the screw feeder.

Mark Waters, director, Ajax Equipment, believes the variable plug length screw feeder will broaden the scope for screw feeders and conveyors in difficult process conditions.

"The new variable plug length screw feeder overcomes the inflexibility encountered with fixed length plugs that limits their use.

It also offers manufacturers the opportunity to use the steady feed rate possible with a screw feeder for continuous production, where previously they may have relied on batch manufacture," he said.

The variable plug length screw feeder is available in a range of screw sizes and feed rates, and the auger can be retracted for ease of cleaning.

In addition the feeder can be jacketed to allow heating or cooling of the material prior to its discharge.

For more details of the Ajax Equipment variable plug length screw feeder, please visit the website.

Back to top