Screw Conveyor

Introduction

Screw Conveyors are a fundamental and versatile component in bulk material handling systems across industrial, agricultural, and chemical applications. They are primarily used for horizontally, inclined, or vertically conveying a wide variety of dry to semi-dry bulk materials from one point to another, as well as for mixing, blending, heating, or cooling materials during transport.

The conveyor operates on a simple principle a rotating helical screw blade (the flighting) is contained within a tubular or U-shaped trough. As the screw rotates, material fed into the inlet is pushed forward along the trough, much like a nut being advanced along a rotating screw. The material is discharged through an outlet at the end of the conveyor path, with the flow rate being precisely controlled by the screw's rotational speed.

Key components of a screw conveyor include the screw (shaft and flighting), trough, inlet and outlet spouts, end bearings, a drive unit, and a power transmission system (typically an electric motor and gearbox).

Screw Conveyors have a wide range of applications due to their simple design, effectiveness in metering material, and ability to be fully enclosed, which minimizes dust and contamination.