Conveying ultrafine powders (e.g., <75 μm): which conveyor type is generally preferred for reliable transport over distance?
Chemical Engineering
Mechanical Operations
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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ABelt conveyor
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BPneumatic conveyor
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CScrew conveyor
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DNone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: Pneumatic conveyor
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Very fine powders fluidize easily and can dust or segregate on belts and in screws. Pneumatic conveying suspends particles in air, enabling controlled, enclosed transport.
Concept / Approach:Pneumatic systems (dilute or dense phase) provide high enclosure, minimal spillage, and low mechanical degradation for ultrafines. Belts suffer from windage and dust; screws may compact or smear fine powders and have higher leakage/dusting at clearances.
Final Answer:Pneumatic conveyor