Plastic granule conveying: the possible choices for the company

Companies operating in the plastics industry must ensure practical and efficient transport of plastic granule to ensure uninterrupted production.

To meet this need, there are several methods available for transporting plastic pellets, each with specific characteristics.

In this article, we will examine the various options and types available, allowing you to identify the best choice to ensure safe and efficient transport of plastic granules within the company.

Types of plastic granule transport

Single or centralized transport systems for automatic distribution of polymer pellets are machinery implemented within companies to optimize workflow processes.

Companies like Vismec offer various innovative solutions for this type of plastic granule transport, which are comprehensive, flexible, and suitable for a wide range of needs.

Here’s an overview of the main methods:

Mechanical transport.

It uses mechanical systems such as screws, rigid or flexible spiral feeders, and conveyor belts to facilitate granule handling. While it does not require regular filter maintenance, it may have issues with cleanliness and mechanical wear. It is suitable only for short distances.

Manual transport.

This is the most traditional method involving manual handling and emptying of bags. It is cost-effective in terms of labor and does not require specialized personnel. However, it is a slow process and carries risks of material waste, contamination, and safety issues.

Pressure transport.

Uses compressed air pumps to push pellets through a system of pipes and containers. This method offers high transport speed, with a capacity exceeding 1000 kg/h, and can be managed via stable or mobile transport units. However, it requires individual station presence and periodic maintenance of cyclonic filters or other filtration systems.

Vacuum transport.

It is a more efficient method based on creating a partial vacuum generated by a pump inside the pipelines. The pressure difference between the suction point and the destination allows for granule transport.

Vacuum transport proves to be the most effective method for plastic pellet transport, and it further subdivides into various transport possibilities.

For example, the feeding kit can be connected to a drying system for integrated drying and transport.

The single-phase feeding, which has a lower initial cost, allows for automatic filter cleaning, while transport via the Venturi system uses compressed air for material transport, enabling continuous transport.

Lastly, there are small three-phase centralized systems with a centralized self-cleaning filter suction system and bypass valve.

But how do centralized systems work?

Centralized plastic granule transport

For large businesses operating in plastics, centralized transport systems are advanced feeding systems that enable fast, efficient, and controlled transport of dried plastic granules.

This type of transport incorporates innovative solutions, including:

Advanced control system.

Manages up to 48 transport stations per vacuum line, with an emergency supply system. Available in touchscreen version with remote control and in various configurations.

Integrated dehumidifier.

Provides dry air to prevent moisture absorption during transport.

Integrated suction system.

Includes a central vacuum unit or emergency blower to prevent machine downtime risks.

Stainless steel receivers.

Available in various sizes, with optimized filtering systems and mechanisms for inspection and cleaning.

Large centralized transport systems can be enhanced with various accessories, offering numerous benefits to the companies that adopt them.

These systems ensure control and optimization of plastic pellet logistics, reducing energy consumption, maintenance times, and costs, resulting in savings for the company.