Pneumatic fuel supply (definition)

Pneumatic fuel supply — is a system for transporting fuel, usually pellets, using compressed air in pneumatic pipelines. Such a system is often used in modern pellet boilers and boiler plants, where automation of fuel supply plays a key role in ensuring stable and efficient operation of the system.

Pneumatic fuel supply: features of pneumatic fuel supply:

1. Principle of operation:
   • Pneumatic transport: The system uses compressed air to move pellets from a bunker or fuel storage to the boiler furnace through special pneumatic pipes. The air creates a flow that picks up the pellets and moves them to their destination.
   • Cyclone separator: In some systems, the pneumatic feed may include a cyclonic separator, which separates the pellets from the air, ensuring a smooth flow into the boiler.
2. Pellet feed auger:
   • Role in the system: The pellet feed auger is an important element in the pneumatic feed system. It is used to feed the fuel evenly from the hopper to the pneumatic system.
   • Design: The auger is a screw mechanism that slowly moves pellets into the pneumatic pipeline. It ensures accurate dosing of fuel and prevents its accumulation or blockage.
   • Built-in or external hopper: Depending on the system design, the auger may be part of the integrated pellet boiler hopper or serve a separate large pellet storage bin.
3. Advantages of Pneumatic Fuel Supply:
   • Automation of the process: Pneumatic feed allows for fully automated fuel supply, reducing the need for manual intervention and increasing ease of use of the system.
   • Flexibility in placement: This system allows the pellet bin to be installed at a considerable distance from the boiler, which provides greater flexibility in the design and installation of the boiler system.
   • Reducing labor costs: The pneumatic system reduces labor costs for fuel supply, since all work is carried out automatically.
4. Flaws:
   • Energy costs: Pneumatic supply requires a compressor or other compressed air source, which can increase energy costs.
   • Noise: The operation of the pneumatic system may be accompanied by noise, especially when fuel is supplied.

Application:

Pneumatic fuel supply is used in industrial boiler houses and in private households where pellet boilers are used. This technology significantly simplifies the management of the heating system, increases its autonomy and efficiency.

Overall, pneumatic fuel supply equipped with a pellet auger is an efficient and automated solution for modern heating systems, providing a stable fuel supply and reducing the need for constant maintenance.