For handling hot, abrasive “ash” and similar residues from boilers and furnaces, which conveyor type is generally the most suitable and robust choice?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Flight (scraper) conveyor

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Ash handling demands equipment that tolerates abrasion, elevated temperature, and sometimes wet/slurry conditions. The conveyor must provide positive displacement transport with minimal spillage and high wear resistance.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Material: hot, abrasive ash or clinker-like residues.
  • Operating environment: harsh, often at boiler/furnace discharge.
  • Goal: reliable, contained conveyance.


Concept / Approach:
Flight (scraper) conveyors drag material along the bottom of a trough using flights fixed to chains. This positive mechanical conveying is suited to abrasive, hot materials, allowing cooling sections or quench baths. Belt conveyors are vulnerable to abrasion and heat; ribbon conveyors suit mixing, not bulk transfer; dilute-phase pneumatic systems risk erosion and dust control issues.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Match material severity (hot, abrasive) to conveying principle: chain-and-flight design.Evaluate alternatives: belts wear rapidly; ribbons mix; pneumatic lines erode and dust handling is complex.Select the robust option: flight (scraper) conveyor.


Verification / Alternative check:
Power plants and foundries widely use submerged scraper conveyors or dry flight conveyors for bottom ash and clinkers, confirming the selection.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Drag/slat is related and can be used, but “flight (scraper)” is the canonical ash-handling choice in many designs.Belts lack heat and abrasion resistance for continuous ash duty.Ribbon conveyors are mixers, not bulk conveyors.Pneumatic dilute-phase risks severe pipeline erosion and dust control challenges.


Common Pitfalls:
Overlooking temperature limits of belts; underestimating abrasion on pneumatic elbows; confusing slat with scraper terminology without considering specific ash system design.


Final Answer:
Flight (scraper) conveyor

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