Continued from Part 1: Controlling Buildup in a Drum
Abrasion and Corrosion
Aside from buildup in a drum, abrasion and corrosion are also common challenges faced by many rotary drum owners. Though abrasion and corrosion can wreak severe havoc on a rotary drum if left unattended, choosing the right liner can help to ensure the rotary drum has a long life ahead.
Abrasion and corrosion can have similar effects, but they are very different in nature. While corrosion is chemical in nature, abrasion is physical in nature. A good example of abrasion is sand in a rotary drum. As sand rubs on the shell, the metal gets worn down from the abrasive material. There are various options to protect a drum shell from abrasion. Liners such as stainless steel, extra thick rubber liners, or even ceramic tiles are all options (though not typically in heated applications). Another potential choice is to increase the thickness of the actual drum shell, therefore able to withstand more wear.
Corrosion, on the other hand, is purely based on chemical reactions. Acid, for example will erode a metal shell over time, because the carbon in the metal reacts with the acid, leading to premature wear. Liners are also an option here. A neoprene liner can be chosen, or corrosion resistant steels such as stainless, alloys, etc. (which may also help for sticking). Aside from putting in a liner, another possibility is to make the entire shell out of a corrosion resistant steel .
The choice of which liner will be most effective in either case – corrosion or abrasion – is dependent on many things, but most importantly : the purpose of the liner, compatibility of materials, and the material temperature.
As demonstrated, whether dealing with buildup, abrasion, or corrosion, there are numerous options for keeping these challenges under control.
FEECO International custom engineers our rotary drums – coolers, kilns, dryers, granulators, and agglomerators – to suit the needs of the material, to help you achieve the most efficient process for your material.
To learn more about our rotary drums, contact us today!
|
is the author of this post. She has been part of the FEECO Marketing Team for 2 years, and has gained her knowledge from interviewing FEECO engineers, as well as spending time in the FEECO testing & tolling facility. At FEECO -- We Build BIG Stuff! Check out our website and social networks below to see some of the equipment we manufacture...
