I doubt very much that electrostatic charges are causing the line to plug up. Most likely, the reason for line plugging is low conveying velocity.

But you should ground the conveying lines to dissipate the electrostatic charge. Grounding must be continuous.

Let me know if we solve your problem

Amrit Agarwal (Tim)

Pneumatic Conveying Consultants

polypcc@aol.com

Fax 304 346 5125 ■

Please refer to my e-mail sent to you this morning. Hope that it answers your questions.

If I can be any further help, feel free to contact us.

Amrit Agarwal(Tim)

Pneumatic Conveying Consultants ■

dear zxtds,

I agree with the earlier response!

With very abrasive materials such as coal, it is advisable to keep conveying velocities as low as possible. Generally, as time goes on, production increases, with increased system loadings, while the condition of the plant and equipment deteriorate. under these conditions, blockages can be expected. If you are experiencing static, then I would advise you to ensure that the system is grounded to earth. YOU DO NOT WANT A DUST EXPOLSION!!

Regards,

Dave. ■

zxtds

I've seen an electrostatic charge cause a blockage in a system conveying a plastic material but never with coal or similar materials. You didn't state what material the conveying line is and I would assume steel but I have, in the past, had a customer use ABS pipe for the conveying line on a cement system. Static on this was a huge problem. Fortunatley the customer finally followed our recommendations and put a steel line in.

My point is that while static electricty would seem an unlikely cause of the line blockage you should ensure that the conveying line is properly grounded and that there is ground continuity between each piping component.

It's been my experience that most line plugging is caused by insufficient air volume for the amount of product being fed into the system. This can be a result of overloading the line or a reduction in air volume either through leakage or changes in the air source or filter.

Hope this helps

If I can be of further assistance you can contact me either through this forum or at apowell@flexicon.com

Regards

Allen Powell ■