Tube Screw Conveyor
Tube Screw Conveyor: Hygienic and Dust-Free Grain Transport System
In the modern milling sector, efficient, hygienic, and environmentally friendly transport systems are fundamental requirements for quality production. Tube Screw Conveyor systems developed by Tanış A.Ş. provide solutions that ensure safe transport of grains and flours in completely enclosed environments, minimize dust emission, and comply with food safety standards. These systems, which stand out with their engineering quality, durable structure, and efficient design, are your ideal solution partner to increase the efficiency and hygiene of your mill processes.
A tube screw conveyor is a mechanical conveyor system that transports granular or powder materials through spiral movement within a closed pipe. The system consists of a helical spiral (screw) rotating inside the pipe and a leak-proof tube (pipe) surrounding this spiral. This design completely cuts off the material’s contact with the external environment, providing hygienic and dust-free transport.
The advantages provided by closed transport technology are multifaceted. Firstly, since the material’s contact with the external environment is cut off, contamination risk is minimized. Secondly, dust emission from the material is completely controlled, preserving both workplace cleanliness and preventing product loss. Additionally, thanks to its compact structure, it occupies less space and offers flexible solutions even in complex facility layouts.
Its use at different stages of the milling process is quite widespread. Tube screw conveyors can be used at every stage of the milling process from raw material intake to final product packaging. They are especially preferred at various transfer points from cleaning units to mills, from mills to sieves, from elevators to silo bases. They provide reliable performance in transporting different products such as flour, semolina, and bran.
The differences and advantages from other transport systems stem from its closed design and simple mechanical structure. Compared to open screw systems, it completely controls dust emission and prevents product loss. It offers lower energy consumption compared to pneumatic transport systems. Compared to bucket elevators, it stands out with its horizontal and inclined transport capability and simpler structure.
The working principle of the compact tube structure and spiral mechanism is based on a simple but very effective design. Rotational movement from the motor is transmitted to the spiral-shaped screw. The rotating screw transports the fed material forward with its spiral movement. This pushing movement enables the material to advance along the tube, while the optimum clearance between the tube’s inner wall and spiral maximizes efficiency and energy savings.
The closed system design’s contribution to dust control is significant. Since the material is transported in a completely closed environment, dust particles do not spread to the external environment. This feature is of great importance especially in transporting fine particulate materials like flour. Controlling dust emission both protects worker health and ensures facility cleanliness.
The characteristics of the motor and drive system provide reliable and efficient operation. In Tanış Tube Screw Conveyor systems, electric motors with IE3 efficiency class and reducer systems are used. Direct or belt-pulley drive options are offered to respond to different application needs. Motor power is optimized according to screw diameter and length, maximizing energy efficiency.
Design details of loading and discharge points are important factors affecting system performance. Loading mouths are designed to ensure regular and homogeneous feeding of material. Discharge points are positioned to ensure complete discharge and prevent material accumulation. Multiple inlet and outlet options adapt to different process needs.
Completely hermetic structure and leak-proof connection technology guarantee the system’s dust control and hygiene advantages. Specially designed flanges and gasket systems provide leak-proofing at connection points. End bearings and shaft passage points are equipped with special sealing elements. These details ensure long-life and trouble-free operation of the system
Spiral (screw) structure and precise engineering design is the fundamental factor determining transport performance. The spiral design developed by Tanış engineers is optimized according to the characteristics of the material to be transported. Spiral pitch, diameter, and wall thickness are precisely calculated for maximum transport capacity and minimum wear.
Tube (pipe) material and structural durability provide long-life operation. In standard applications, carbon steel is offered; for abrasive materials, special alloy steel or wear-plated systems; for applications requiring food safety, stainless steel options are provided. Tube wall thickness is optimized according to the characteristics of the material to be transported and transport distance.
Leak-proof connection points and flange design are critical components that prevent dust emission. Flanges are designed to provide perfect alignment and leak-proofing. Complete leak-proofing is guaranteed at connection points using special gasket systems. This design makes the system completely hermetic, preventing dust leakage.
Specialized spiral geometry for different product types increases transport efficiency. Optimized spiral designs are available for materials with different characteristics such as grain, flour, and bran. Special spiral profiles have been developed especially for sticky or difficult-to-flow materials. This customization provides optimum transport performance for each material.
Technical Specifications and Performance Parameters
Tanış Tube Screw Conveyor systems are offered in various sizes to meet different capacity needs. Basic technical specifications are as follows:
| Model | Spiral Diameter (mm) | Tube Diameter (mm) | Capacity (tons/hour) | Motor Power (kW) | Maximum Length (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TMTH-160 | 160 | 174 | 3-5 | 0.75-1.1 | 6 |
| TMTH-180 | 180 | 198 | 8-12 | 2.2-4 | 8 |
| TMTH-200 | 200 | 219 | 15-20 | 4-5.5 | 10 |
| TMTH-250 | 250 | 273 | 25-35 | 5.5-7.5 | 12 |
| TMTH-300 | 300 | 324 | 40-50 | 7.5-11 | 15 |
Features included as standard in all our models:
- Carbon steel or stainless steel construction options
- High-quality bearings and sealing elements
- Easy access doors for service and cleaning
- Special sealing gaskets at inlet and outlet flanges
- Modular design and easy installation capability
- Wear-resistant spiral material
The optimum relationship between spiral and tube diameter is of critical importance for system efficiency. Transport capacity and energy consumption are directly dependent on the harmony of these two parameters. Tanış engineers have determined the ideal spiral-tube diameter ratio for maximum efficiency as a result of years of R&D work.
Motor power and energy consumption values are optimized according to screw diameter, length, and characteristics of the material to be transported. In all systems, energy consumption is minimized by using motors in IE3 efficiency class. Variable speed control capability is provided with optionally offered frequency converters, further increasing energy savings.
Model Variations and Capacity Options
Different diameter options and capacity alternatives meet various application needs. Spiral diameters ranging from 100 mm to 300 mm offer transport capacity from 3 tons to 50 tons per hour. Suitable models are available for every scale of operation from small-scale mills to large industrial facilities.
Various length and power configurations adapt to facility layout. Standard models can be manufactured as single pieces starting from 3 meters up to 15 meters depending on model type. For longer distances, special designs with intermediate bearings or series-connected systems can be used. Efficient operation is ensured by selecting optimum motor power for each length.
Specialized models for different grain types are available. In addition to different grains such as wheat, corn, and barley, optimized systems are offered for ground products such as flour, semolina, and bran. Spiral pitch and profile are customized considering the physical properties of each product.
Configuration alternatives for special applications are also available. Hardox-coated spirals for applications requiring high wear resistance, completely stainless steel construction for environments requiring high corrosion resistance, and special hygienic models for facilities where food safety standards are critical are offered.
Hygienic Transport and Food Safety Advantages
External contamination control with completely closed system is of great importance for food safety. Tube screw conveyor design completely cuts off the material’s contact with the external environment during the transport process. This feature eliminates the risk of airborne microbial contamination, dust, and foreign matter contamination.
Design that minimizes dust emission both prevents product loss and maintains workplace cleanliness. Especially in transporting fine particulate materials like flour, the dust problem encountered in traditional open systems is completely eliminated. This advantage helps meet hygiene standards that are of critical importance in food facilities.
Material selection compliant with food safety standards is one of the most important features of the system. All surfaces in contact with food are manufactured from FDA-approved materials. Stainless steel models meet the highest hygiene requirements. All materials are completed with lubricants and sealing elements that are safe and approved for the food industry.
Easy-to-clean structure and hygiene control points facilitate regular maintenance and sanitation operations. Service doors positioned at strategic points provide internal cleaning and inspection capability. Specially designed end bearings can be easily removed and installed, allowing comprehensive cleaning.
Food Safety Standards and Compliance
Compliance with FDA, GFSI, and HACCP standards ensures safe use of the system in the food industry. Tanış Tube Screw Conveyor systems are designed to meet the requirements of food safety management systems. This compliance helps food producers meet legal requirements.
Characteristics of surfaces in contact with food minimize contamination risk. Smooth surfaces prevent bacteria settlement and biofilm formation. Stainless steel option provides corrosion resistance and easy cleanability. All welding points are processed according to food standards, preventing the formation of microbial traps.
Design details that reduce contamination risk are considered at every point of the system. Leak-proof connections prevent external contamination, while smooth design of internal surfaces prevents product accumulation and microbial formations. Self-cleaning spiral design minimizes material accumulation, reducing contamination risk.
Features that provide cleaning and sanitation ease support regular hygiene procedures. Easy access doors allow effective cleaning of internal surfaces. Removable parts facilitate comprehensive cleaning and disinfection operations. These features help food facilities effectively implement their sanitation programs.
Maintenance and Service Ease
Planned maintenance schedule and control procedures ensure long-life and efficient operation of the system. The recommended maintenance program for Tanış Tube Screw Conveyor systems includes:
- Daily checks: General operating sound and performance control
- Weekly checks: Drive system, bearings, and sealing control
- Monthly checks: Spiral wear control, bearing lubrication, motor and reducer control
- 6-monthly checks: Comprehensive spiral and tube wear control, inspection of all connection and sealing elements
Easily accessible service doors and points shorten maintenance time. Control and cleaning doors positioned at strategic points provide quick access to internal components. Modular design allows easy removal and replacement of necessary parts. These features minimize maintenance time, reducing production losses.
Practical application of spiral and bearing replacement provides service ease. End bearing design allows bearing replacement without removing the spiral. When spiral replacement is needed, replacement can be done with minimum intervention thanks to modular flange connections. These design features simplify and accelerate maintenance operations.
Maintenance advantages with minimum downtime increase production efficiency. Thanks to easy access and quick part replacement capability, maintenance times are minimized. This feature is of great importance especially in facilities where continuous production is critical.
Spare parts support and long-life parts reduce operating costs. Tanış A.Ş. provides quick supply capability by keeping all spare parts continuously in stock. High-quality materials and precise engineering ensure long part life, reducing replacement frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the factors affecting transport capacity?
The main factors affecting transport capacity are spiral diameter, rotation speed, spiral pitch, fill ratio, and characteristics of the transported material. A 30-40% fill ratio is recommended for optimal capacity. Overloading increases energy consumption while shortening system life. Tanış engineers offer detailed analysis to determine the most suitable capacity model for your needs.
What is the maximum transport distance?
Maximum transport distance for single-piece Tube Screw Conveyor varies between 6-15 meters depending on the model. For longer distances, special designs with intermediate bearings or series-connected systems can be used. As transport distance increases, the required motor power and spiral diameter also need to be optimized.
Is inclined installation possible?
Yes, Tube Screw Conveyors can be installed at certain angles. Standard models can work efficiently at inclines up to 15-20 degrees depending on material type. Specially designed models are available for steeper angles. It should be considered that there will be a certain decrease in transport capacity in inclined installation.
Which grain and flour types is it suitable for?
Tube Screw Conveyor systems are suitable for transporting all grain types such as wheat, corn, barley, rye, as well as ground products such as flour, semolina, and bran. Models with optimized spiral pitch and profile for different materials are available. Special spiral designs are offered for sticky or difficult-to-flow materials.
What should the maintenance frequency be?
Basic checks should be done weekly, comprehensive checks monthly. Bearings and sealing elements should be checked at 3-month intervals, spiral and tube wear should be examined at 6-month intervals. Annual comprehensive maintenance should review the entire system. These periods may vary depending on operating conditions and transported material.
To get more detailed information about Tanış Tube Screw Conveyor systems for efficient, hygienic, and dust-free material transport solutions in your mill processes, please contact us. Our expert team is ready to offer customized solutions for your needs.