What is a Screw Conveyor?
A transportador de tornillo (also called an auger conveyor) is a mechanical system used to move bulk materials efficiently. The Transportador de tornillo LS is a popular industrial model designed for horizontal or slightly inclined transport. Unlike a cinta transportadora, which uses a moving belt, a transportador de tornillo relies on a rotating helical blade (screw) to push materials forward.
Key Differences Between Screw Conveyor and Belt Conveyor:
✔ Screw Conveyor:
Fully enclosed, preventing dust & contamination
Better for powders, granules, and small lumps
Handles steeper inclines (up to 45° with special design)
Lower maintenance but higher power consumption
✔ Belt Conveyor:
Open or enclosed, better for large, heavy materials
Higher capacity for long-distance transport
Less material degradation (no screw crushing effect)
Requires more space and frequent belt adjustments
What is an LS Screw Conveyor? Core Functions & Working Principle
The LS screw conveyor (also called a screw feeder) is an industrial machine widely used for transporting powdered, granular, and small lump materials. “LS” stands for “Screw” and “Level” conveying. As essential equipment in modern production lines, it works by rotating spiral blades to push materials through a pipe, enabling efficient and continuous transport.
Detailed Specifications:
Diameter Range: 100mm to 1250mm (standard models include 100, 160, 200, 250, 315, 400, 500, 630, 800, 1000, and 1250mm)
Single Unit Length: Up to 35m (max 30m for LS1000 & LS1250 models)
Operating Temperature: -20°C to 50°C ambient, handles materials ≤200°C
Inclination Angle: Best under 20°, special designs up to 45°
7 Key Advantages: Why Choose an LS Screw Conveyor?
Compact Design: Saves space, ideal for tight factory layouts
Multiple Loading/Unloading Points: Allows material transfer at several positions (professional term: intermediate feed/discharge ports)
Fully Enclosed Transport: Prevents dust leakage, meets environmental standards (keyword: dust-proof screw conveyor)
Low Maintenance Costs: Simpler and cheaper than belt conveyors
Material Options: Carbon steel, stainless steel (304/316), food-grade & corrosion-resistant choices
Customizable Features: Explosion-proof motors, variable speed drives, weighing modules
Flexible Installation: Horizontal, inclined, or vertical setups
Industry Applications: Which Materials Work Best?
Ideal Materials:
Powders: Cement, flour, coal powder, talc
Granules: Grains, plastic pellets, fertilizer
Small Lumps: Crushed coal, small stones, biomass pellets
Not Recommended For:
Perishable materials (e.g., some food ingredients)
High-viscosity substances (e.g., asphalt, syrup)
Clumping materials (e.g., certain chemicals)
Large lumps (diameter > 1/4 of screw size)
Buying Guide: 5 Critical Decision Factors
Material Analysis: Density, moisture, flowability, abrasiveness
Capacity Calculation: Select model based on required tons/hour
Conveying Distance: Single unit max 35m, connect multiple for longer runs
Special Conditions: Explosion-proof, waterproof, high-temperature needs
Budget Balance: Compare upfront cost vs long-term operating expenses
Installation Rules: 10 Steps for Best Performance
Prepare foundation: Complete concrete base 20 days in advance
Check parts: Verify all components are present and clean
Align centerlines: Ensure proper horizontal/vertical positioning
Smooth connections: Keep joint surfaces within 1mm height difference
Secure base: Tighten with high-strength bolts
Calibrate bearings: Properly support intermediate hanger bearings
Tighten all bolts: Apply correct torque specifications
Lubricate systems: Check oil levels in gearbox and bearings
Test empty: Run without material for 4+ hours
Safety check: Install emergency stops and protective covers
Operation & Maintenance: Expert Tips to Extend Lifespan
Daily Operation:
Start sequence: Power on empty, then feed material gradually (keyword: screw conveyor operating procedures)
Shutdown process: Clear all material before stopping
Feed control: Use vibratory feeder for steady input
Foreign object protection: Add screens at inlet
Maintenance Schedule:
| Level | Runtime | Duration | Key Tasks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | Per shift | 10 min | Clean, tighten, lube check |
| Level 1 | 720 hrs | 4 hrs | Full inspection, replace worn parts |
| Level 2 | 2400 hrs | 16 hrs | System overhaul, bearing replacement |
Troubleshooting:
Strange noises: Check for bearing wear or jammed objects
Reduced capacity: Inspect blade wear or motor power
Material leaks: Examine seal deterioration
Case Study: Darko Factory Implementation
Two LS400 screw conveyors have operated reliably for 3 years at Darko Factory, achieving:
Continuous cement transport at 60 tons/hour
Dust control meeting ISO 14644-1 Class 7
25% lower energy use vs traditional systems
Technical Comparison: LS vs Other Conveyors
| Característica | Transportador de tornillo | Cinta transportadora | Elevador de cangilones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sellado | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Space Needed | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Mantenimiento | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Coste | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Max Angle | <20° | <30° | Vertical |
Expert Q&A: Top 8 Customer Questions
Q: How to calculate required model capacity?
A: Use formula Q=47D²nψρC (D-diameter, n-speed, ψ-fill rate, ρ-density, C-angle factor)
Q: How much more expensive is stainless steel?
A: Typically 30-50% higher cost but lasts 2-3x longer
Q: Can you make non-standard sizes?
A: Yes, minimum 100mm diameter, maximum 1500mm
Q: What's special about explosion-proof models?
A: They use explosion-proof motors, grounding, and anti-static blades
Q: How to repair worn blades?
A: Apply wear-resistant welding or replace with alloy blades
Q: Advantages vs tubular drag conveyors?
A: Simpler structure, easier maintenance, better for medium-short distances
Q: What food-grade certifications exist?
A: We provide FDA, CE, and 3A sanitary standards
Q: Minimum order quantity and lead time?
A: 1 unit for standard models (15-30 days), 45-60 days for custom
El transportador de tornillo LS es un eficaz dispositivo de manipulación de materiales. Con una instalación, funcionamiento y mantenimiento adecuados, puede maximizar el rendimiento y garantizar un funcionamiento estable a largo plazo. Para más información o consultas, por favor Contacto. Estamos dispuestos a proporcionarte apoyo y servicios profesionales.
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