A rotary feeder (rotary airlock feeder) is an indispensable equipment of bulk material handling systems, especially pneumatic conveying lines. This device takes its name from its rotor’s cross-section resembling a star and its main function is to ensure the material is fed to the system in a controlled manner while maintaining the pressure within the line. The rotary feeder plays a critical role in the system’s efficient and safe operation by acting as an airlock (airlock).
How is the Airlock Function Provided in the Rotary Feeder (Airlock)?
The most critical reason for the use of a rotary feeder is its function as an airlock (airlock). Pneumatic conveying systems generally operate under positive (pressurized) or negative (vacuum) pressure in one region. The rotary feeder creates an isolation layer between these two different pressure zones, whether feeding material from an area under atmospheric pressure such as a hopper or silo, to a high-pressure conveying line, or doing the exact opposite. Each pocket of the rotor, while filling and emptying material in sequence, always maintains a closed volume, protecting the pressure within the line. This situation significantly prevents pressure loss and maximizes conveying efficiency.
How is Flow Control Provided in the Rotary Feeder?
The rotary feeder, beyond being just an airlock, also has the ability to control material flow precisely. Thanks to the rotor turning at a constant speed, the amount of material entering the system per unit of time is quite regular and constant. This controlled passage prevents the pneumatic conveying line from clogging and ensures the conveying speed remains at the desired level. In many sectors, from mining to food, the rotary feeder plays a key role even in dosing and mixing processes thanks to this feature, because regular flow is a requirement for the continuity of final product quality.
The Contribution of Rotary Feeders to Efficiency in Pneumatic Conveying
The creation of an effective airlock and the regular feeding of material directly contributes to the overall efficiency of the pneumatic conveying system. Minimizing pressure leaks allows energy-consuming equipment such as blowers or compressors to work less. This situation reduces operating costs and at the same time allows the conveying capacity to increase. High-performance and abrasion-resistant rotary feeder models guarantee long-lasting and uninterrupted operation, especially in environments where aggressive and abrasive materials are conveyed, raising the total rotary feeder efficiency of the facility.