Extruded Soya used for Bacon Bits is seen here entering a tube inlet of an Aero-Mechanical after discharging from a drier.

The Feed Mill and Grain Handling Industry has long been associated with Bucket Elevators and Rigid screws, technology that has been around for many years. The Introduction of the Aero-Mechanical Conveyor as an alternative and more flexible method provides a better solution by meeting today's demands for minimal breakage during transfer. Applications vary from the simple up and in arrangement through to complicated multiple inlet or outlet designs. One major advantage of the aero-mechanical is that it can be re-configured to suit new applications should the need arise. Aero-Mechanical conveyors transport the product in pockets between fixed discs on a cable assembly. Moving at 750 ft/min the particles are suspended in the stream minimizing damage. Extruded products such as Soya can be handled directly from the drier. Animal and Bird Feed Pellets are transferred with minimal breakage and at very high rates.		Typical Up & In Application found in many Feed Mills. Aerocon Bag Dump Station feeds the Aero- Conveyor in this typical mill application.

Flexibility

Flexibility is the key to modern mill requirements and the ever demanding customer specifications. This is particularly true when it comes to animal or bird feed. The use of gentle conveying techniques with multiple inlets and outlets maximizes yield and avoids segregation problems. As increased use of Bulk Bags occur the Aero-Mechanicals provide the best method of transfer.

Versatility

Not only is the ability to handle a wide variety of raw material sources important but also the ability to fit the conveying system within the constraints of the Mill. Aerocon conveyors can be adapted to fit in most spaces as can be seen in the photograph!


Cleanliness

Feed Mills are known for their levels of dust that present hazards to employees as well as the fear that an explosion could occur. Aerocon Conveyors are dust tight and totally enclosed. They do not pressurize and are capable of venting the vessel that is being filled. This is particularly beneficial when compared to the traditional Bucket Elevator. Aero-Mechanicals require little maintenance further reducing spills.

Speed of Loading

Transfer of high volumes of grain, soya or similar products requires a large capacity conveyor that takes up the minimum of space. A 4" diameter Aero-mechanical conveyor can transfer product at rates up to 20 ft3/min. At 35 lbs/ft3 this equates to 42,000 lbs/hr.

Gentle Handling

At least as important as speed is the ability to transfer product with the minimum of damage. Product discharging from a drier is both hot and friable. Aero-Mechanical conveyors are ideal since the fluidization of the product that occurs during transfer reduces impact and the associated damage.

Bulletin 8103