Low-cost conveyor is air powered

    Nov. 6, 2003
    Advances in controls and networks combined with components that pack more punch have opened the door to more-precise, durable, and economical pneumatic systems.

    Air-operated 316SS Line Vac conveyors from Exair Corp., Cincinnati, convert ordinary hose or tube into in-line conveying systems for food products, pharmaceuticals, and other bulk material. The unit features large throat diameters for high throughput capacity.

    The conveyors eject a small amount of compressed air to produce a vacuum on one end with high output flows on the other. Response is said to be near instantaneous. Regulating the compressed-air pressure controls the conveying rate. Stainless-steel construction resists corrosion and contamination, in five sizes from 3/4 to 2 in. Maximum temperature rating is 400°F. Applications include hopper loading, scrap trim removal, and tablet transfer and packaging.

    About the Author

    Kenneth Korane

    Ken Korane holds a B.S. Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University. In addition to serving as an editor at Machine Design until August 2015, his prior work experience includes product engineer at Parker Hannifin Corp. and mechanical design engineer at Euclid Inc. 

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