Which bulk material conveyor for which situation?
Chain and screw conveyors versus belt conveyors

There are several alternatives for conveying bulk materials. The most important of these are screw conveyors, belt conveyors and chain conveyors. Conveyors for bulk material should always be tailored to the situation: the movement path and the characteristics of the specific bulk material. Which type of conveyor is best for each situation?

At Sinfimasa, we always say that the most important factor determining the choice of conveyor type is the product to be transported. Before the engineer defines the system, the properties of the product and conditions must be characterised. To mention are: the bulk density, grain size, abrasiveness, corrosivity, the temperature at which it will be transported, the power required, the degree of clumping, hygroscopicity, etc... Depending on the product and the configuration of the process or plant, one device will be better than another, although in many cases several types can be used.

Chain and screw conveyors versus belt conveyors

The main advantage of chain and screw conveyors is that they can be fully enclosed, in a hermetically sealable casing or tube. This prevents exposure of the bulk material to the open environment, and avoids contamination of the surroundings. Moving parts are also shielded, reducing the risk of accidents.
Another advantage of chain and screw conveyors over belt conveyors is that they can operate at higher temperatures, as both the chains and the flights are made of steel. With a belt conveyor, the belt is usually made of rubber.
With chain conveyors and screw conveyors, a higher head (60º, sometimes even vertical) can be achieved than with belts. And using a chain conveyor, horizontal and near-vertical transport can be combined.
Furthermore screw conveyors and chain conveyors can be fitted quite easily with multiple discharge openings.

Sinfimasa manufactures chain and screw conveyors specifically for each customer and project. Depending on the needs of the plant and the product to be transported, we study the feasibility of the project thanks to the experience of more than 40 years of designing and manufacturing this equipment.