Airslide fabrics are widely used in the bulk material handling industry due to their unique properties. Also known as aero-slides, fluidizing fabric, or air-permeable blankets, they are specifically designed to transport granular or powdery materials.
Properties of Airslide Fabric
Airslide fabrics are made from high-quality polyester yarns that are intertwined to form a network of permeable fibers. They are coated with a special finish that allows air to pass through the fabric while retaining the material they carry. The fabric’s porous nature prevents clogging and enables materials to flow smoothly. Airslide fabrics also come with a range of surface finishes, including smooth, textured, and embossed, making them suitable for handling different types of materials.
Top 5 Benefits of Using Airslide Fabric
- Reduced Friction: Airslide fabrics offer low friction, allowing bulk materials to slide smoothly with minimal resistance. This property helps to reduce power consumption, prevent material damage, and improve operational efficiency.
- Self-Cleaning: Airslide fabrics are self-cleaning, which means they do not require frequent cleaning or maintenance. The continuous flow of air through the fabric removes any particles that may have accumulated on its surface, preventing clogs and improving the fabric’s lifespan.
- Uniform Material Flow Rates: Airslide fabrics ensure uniform flow rates, allowing materials to be transported smoothly and evenly. The fabric’s permeability and low friction work together to provide a consistent flow of materials, which can be controlled by regulating the air pressure.
- Low Aeration Requirements: Airslide fabrics require minimal aeration pressure, typically between 3-8psi, which equates to low energy consumption. The low aeration pressure also lowers the risk of dust emissions and material degradation, making it an eco-friendly solution.
- Versatility: Airslide fabrics are versatile in their application. They can be used to transport a wide range of bulk materials, including cement, lime, flour, sugar, and many more. The fabric is available in different thicknesses, widths, and lengths, making it customizable to various material handling needs.
Comparison with Other Material Handling Solutions
Airslide fabrics have some distinct advantages over other material handling solutions. In comparison to mechanical conveyors, airslide fabrics are quieter, less expensive, and require less maintenance. In contrast, hydraulic and pneumatic conveying methods require higher energy inputs and are generally more expensive.
Conclusion
Airslide fabrics offer a wide range of benefits for bulk material handling. Their unique properties make them a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solution for transporting materials. With low friction, self-cleaning, uniform flow rates, and versatility, airslide fabrics are an excellent choice for handling granular and powdery materials.