Understanding Powder Transfer Systems (PTS) and Their Role
May 20, 2024

Understanding Powder Transfer Systems (PTS) and Their Role

What is a Powder Transfer System?

A Powder Transfer System (PTS) is a specialised piece of equipment used to move powder materials from one location to another in a safe, efficient, and contained manner. These systems are essential in industries where handling powders can pose safety risks or where contamination control is critical. PTS is widely used in pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and polymer processing industries to ensure the integrity and safety of both the product and the operators.

Principle of Vacuum Powder Transfer System

The vacuum powder transfer system operates on a simple yet effective principle. It uses a vacuum to create a low-pressure area, which enables the movement of powder from a source container to a destination container. Here’s how it works:

  1. Loading: Powder is loaded into the source container.
  2. Vacuum Generation: A vacuum pump creates a low-pressure environment in the transfer line.
  3. Powder Movement: The differential pressure causes the powder to flow through the transfer line towards the destination container.
  4. Discharge: The powder is discharged into the destination container, typically under controlled conditions to prevent dust and contamination.

This method ensures a clean and contained transfer, minimising the risk of exposure to hazardous materials and preventing contamination.

Methods for Transferring Powders from One Container to Another

There are several methods used to transfer powders between containers, including:

  • Manual Handling: Using scoops, shovels, or containers. This method is prone to spillage, dust generation, and operator exposure.
  • Mechanical Conveyors: Utilising belts, screws, or bucket elevators. These systems are effective but can cause dust and require extensive cleaning.
  • Pneumatic Conveying: Using air pressure or vacuum to move powders through pipes. This method offers high containment and efficiency.
  • Vacuum Transfer Systems: Preferred for high containment, minimal dust generation, and the ability to handle hazardous materials safely.

Best Way to Transport Powder

The best way to transport powder depends on the specific requirements of the application, including safety, containment, efficiency, and the nature of the powder itself. For most industrial applications, vacuum powder transfer systems offer the best solution due to their ability to:

  • Maintain Containment: Preventing dust generation and exposure to hazardous substances.
  • Ensure Product Integrity: Reducing the risk of contamination and maintaining the quality of the powder.
  • Enhance Safety: Minimising operator exposure to harmful substances.
  • Improve Efficiency: Offering fast and reliable transfer with minimal downtime for cleaning.

What is a Powder Conveying System?

A powder conveying system encompasses various methods and equipment used to move powder materials from one location to another within a processing plant. These systems can be mechanical or pneumatic, and they are designed to handle different types of powders with varying degrees of flowability, density, and abrasiveness. The primary goal of a powder conveying system is to transport materials efficiently while maintaining product quality and ensuring operator safety.

Schematic's Powder Transfer Systems (PTS)

At Schematic, we pride ourselves on providing cutting-edge technology in Powder Transfer Systems (PTS) for handling hazardous powders in a safe and contained manner. Our PTS products are designed to meet the stringent requirements of the pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and polymer processing industries.

Features of Schematic’s PTS:

  • Dense Phase Conveying: Ensures minimal segregation and attrition of the powder, preserving the quality and consistency of the product.
  • Compatibility: Our systems are compact and can be integrated with various items of capital equipment, including Glass Lined and Stainless Steel Reactors, Agitated Nutsche Filter Dryers (ANFDs), and Receivers.
  • Enhanced Safety: Designed to handle hazardous materials safely, preventing exposure and contamination.
  • Efficient Handling: Streamlines the transfer process, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency.

For more information click here.

Contact Us

Schematic Engineering offers comprehensive solutions for your powder handling needs, including Drum Containment Systems and Patented Online Sampling Systems. Our Powder Transfer Systems are at the forefront of technology, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable handling of hazardous powders.

For more information about our Powder Transfer Systems and how they can benefit your operations, click here to contact us. Let Schematic Engineering help you optimise your powder processing with our state-of-the-art solutions.

Why Partner With Us?

Logistics, API, Formulation & Injectable Equipment Solutions
Schematic and the wider Standard Group offer 95% of ALL products required for Pharmaceutical processing.