Abstract: A mechanically-controlled vacuum throttle for a continuous dense phase pneumatic conveying system and related method is provided. The system includes a pneumatic conveyance line, a particulate material insertion assembly, a positive displacement blower, a transport fluid intake assembly, and a vacuum throttling assembly. The vacuum throttling assembly is configured to control the flow of air mass density into the blower and through the conveyance line. A portion of the vacuum throttling assembly is tied in to the conveyance line pressure downstream of the blower and adjusts the air mass density flow depending on the downstream pressure. Preferably, the vacuum throttling assembly includes an obstruction element and an opening collar, where the obstruction element is moveable relative to the opening collar and the air mass density flow is adjusted depending on the amount of movement of the obstruction element relative to the opening collar.

Abstract: A system and method for sanitizing pneumatic conveying piping is provided. The system includes a motorized hose reel with a pig attached to the end of the hose. The pig is smaller in diameter than the inner diameter of the pipe through which it is conveyed. The decreased size of the pig keeps the conveying speed of the pig through the pipes down, while at the same time providing sufficient force to pull the supply hose attached to the pig through the pipes with the pig. The pig of some embodiments of the inventive concept is shaped as a hollow cone or frustoconical shape. Such a shape reduces weight of the pig and also allows the hose to be inserted through the body of the pig with a spray nozzle at the end. The hollow cone shape deflects relatively easily to allow the pig to go around corners or other obstructions. Also, such a pig design automatically centers the nozzle within the pipe during spraying.

Abstract: A mechanically-controlled vacuum throttle for a continuous dense phase pneumatic conveying system and related method is provided. The system includes a pneumatic conveyance line, a particulate material insertion assembly, a positive displacement blower, a transport fluid intake assembly, and a vacuum throttling assembly. The vacuum throttling assembly is configured to control the flow of air mass density into the blower and through the conveyance line. A portion of the vacuum throttling assembly is tied in to the conveyance line pressure downstream of the blower and adjusts the air mass density flow depending on the downstream pressure. Preferably, the vacuum throttling assembly includes an obstruction element and an opening collar, where the obstruction element is moveable relative to the opening collar and the air mass density flow is adjusted depending on the amount of movement of the obstruction element relative to the opening collar.