A twin ribbon screw conveyor is a type of screw conveyor that features two helical screw blades, or "ribbons," wound around a central shaft. The ribbons are designed to move bulk materials within a trough or tube, typically in the food processing, chemical, pharmaceutical, and plastics industries. The twin ribbon design enhances the mixing and conveying of materials, especially those that are sticky, viscous, or prone to clumping.
Twin Ribbon Blades : The conveyor features two helical ribbons, usually in a double helix pattern, that are welded to a central shaft. These ribbons are designed to move material both forward and inward, promoting mixing and consistent flow.
Central Shaft : The central shaft supports the twin ribbon blades and is connected to a drive mechanism that rotates the shaft. The shaft is typically made of stainless steel or another durable material, depending on the application.
Trough or Tube : The housing through which the ribbons rotate. It can be a U-shaped trough or a cylindrical tube, depending on the design and application. The trough contains the material and directs it along the conveyor path.
Drive Mechanism : The motor, gearbox, and other components that provide the rotational power to the central shaft, causing the ribbons to turn and move the material.
Inlet and Outlet : The entry (inlet) and exit (outlet) points for materials being conveyed. The design of these ports can be customized based on the material flow requirements and the specific application.
The twin ribbon screw conveyor operates by rotating the twin ribbons within the trough or tube. As the ribbons rotate, they create a mixing and conveying action that moves the material forward. The design of the ribbons, with their dual helical structure, allows for both axial and radial movement of the material, which helps to ensure consistent mixing and prevents material buildup.
Food Processing : Used for mixing and conveying ingredients like dough, spices, and other food products that require gentle handling and consistent mixing.
Chemical Industry : Ideal for handling powders, granules, and pastes that need to be mixed and conveyed simultaneously.
Pharmaceuticals : Used in the production of tablets, capsules, and other pharmaceutical products where precise mixing and material handling are critical.
Plastics and Polymers : Employed in the compounding and mixing of plastic resins, additives, and colorants.
Construction Materials : Suitable for mixing and conveying dry materials like cement, sand, and other construction-related products.
Twin ribbon screw conveyors are particularly useful in applications where both mixing and conveying are required simultaneously. Their ability to handle a variety of materials with gentle and efficient mixing makes them a valuable component in many industrial processes.