The process of conveying requires accurate and precise monitoring and control of the conveyor's speed and position. To achieve this, encoders are commonly installed on screw conveyors. Encoders provide the means to measure the position, speed, and distance traveled by the conveyor. Encoders are available in rotary and linear forms, but rotary encoders are most commonly used in conveying applications.
Rotary Encoders for Conveyors
A rotary encoder is a sensor that encodes the rotational movement of a shaft or motor into an electrical signal. The device converts mechanical motion to electrical signals and sends them to a control system. The control system interprets these signals to measure the motor's speed, position, and distance travelled.
Rotary encoders can be incremental or absolute. Incremental encoders provide information about the position, speed, and the direction of the shaft. Absolute encoders, on the other hand, have unique position codes for each output. Therefore, when power is off, the encoder provides an immediate position upon power up, eliminating the need to locate a reference position.
Applications of Rotary Encoders in Conveyor Systems
Rotary encoders find their use in several conveying applications, such as in screw conveyors. Conveyor systems require precise and accurate monitoring of the motion, speed, and distance traveled by the conveyor.
The encoder can be installed at the end of the screw conveyor to measure speed and distance. It can also be installed on the motor's shaft to measure the speed and direction of rotation. These measurements enable the control system to regulate the conveyor's speed and position accurately.
Screw Conveying
Screw conveying is widely used in several industries, including food processing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and construction. Screw conveyors can handle both dry and moist materials, are flexible and efficient, and require little maintenance. They are suitable for conveying materials of various sizes, shapes, and densities.
The screw conveyor consists of a helicoid screw blade that rotates in a trough. As the screw turns, it pushes the material forward, and it moves along the length of the trough. Screw conveyors are available in several configurations, including horizontal, inclined, and vertical.
Benefits of Screw Conveying
Screw conveyors are designed for minimum maintenance and maximum efficiency. Some of the benefits of using screw conveyors for conveying include:
1. Space-saving: Screw conveyors are economical as they can move materials vertically and horizontally, saving floor space in production facilities.
2. Minimal environmental impact: Screw conveyors do not produce any dust or emissions, making them environmentally friendly.
3. Versatility: Screw conveyors can transport materials of various shapes, sizes, and densities, making them more versatile than other types of conveyors.
4. Cost-effective: Screw conveyors require little maintenance, making them a more cost-effective conveyance option.
Conclusion
Screw conveying is one of the most efficient and flexible ways of transporting materials in several industries. To achieve maximum efficiency and control while conveying, encoders are often installed on screw conveyors. Rotary encoders provide speed, position, and distance measurements, which enable control systems to regulate the conveyor's motion accurately. Investing in encoders for conveyor systems can help industries achieve a more efficient and reliable conveying system, ultimately leading to better productivity and cost savings.