Diverter Valves for Pneumatic Conveying: What Industries Are They Used In?

In the complex world of industrial processing, efficient material flow is paramount to operational success. At the heart of many pneumatic conveying systems lies a critical component: the diverter valve. These specialized valves play an essential role in routing materials through complex piping networks, ensuring products reach their intended destinations with precision and reliability.

What Are Diverter Valves for Pneumatic Conveying?

Diverter valves for pneumatic conveying are engineered to redirect the flow of materials within conveying systems. They allow operators to route dry bulk materials from a single source to multiple destinations or combine multiple inputs into a single output. These valves come in various configurations, including flap-type, plug-type, swing gate, and rotating disc designs, each optimized for specific applications and material characteristics.

The most effective diverter valves share several key features:

• Reliable sealing capability to prevent material leakage and cross-contamination
• Robust construction to withstand abrasive materials and high-pressure environments
• Self-cleaning mechanisms to prevent material buildup and ensure consistent performance
• Low maintenance requirements to minimize downtime and operational disruptions

Key Industries Utilizing Diverter Valves

Chemical Processing

The chemical industry relies heavily on pneumatic conveying systems to transport powders, granules, and other dry materials throughout processing facilities. Diverter valves in this sector must often handle corrosive substances and maintain strict material isolation to prevent potentially dangerous chemical reactions. High-quality diverter valves with superior sealing capabilities are essential for maintaining safety standards and process integrity.

Food Manufacturing

Food processors utilize pneumatic conveying systems to transport ingredients such as flour, sugar, spices, and other dry food components. In this industry, diverter valves must meet stringent hygiene requirements, often featuring stainless steel construction and specialized seals to prevent contamination. The ability to thoroughly clean these valves is critical to maintaining food safety standards.

Pharmaceuticals

The pharmaceutical industry demands the highest levels of precision and cleanliness in material handling. Diverter valves in pharmaceutical applications must provide complete product isolation between batches to prevent cross-contamination. These valves often incorporate specialized design features to ensure they meet FDA and GMP requirements while maintaining efficient material flow.

Cement and Construction Materials

Perhaps one of the most demanding applications for diverter valves is in the cement industry, where highly abrasive materials like limestone, clinker, and finished cement must be transported throughout production facilities. Diverter valves in this sector require exceptional wear resistance and durability to handle these harsh materials at high temperatures and pressures.

Mining and Minerals Processing

The mining industry utilizes pneumatic conveying for transporting a wide range of mineral products, from coal and copper concentrate to barite and bentonite. Diverter valves in this sector must withstand extreme abrasion while maintaining reliable operation in challenging environmental conditions. Special hardened materials and protective coatings are often employed to extend valve service life.

Plastics Manufacturing

Plastic manufacturers use pneumatic conveying systems to transport pellets, powders, and granules from storage to processing equipment. Diverter valves in this industry must handle materials with varying flow characteristics while preventing material degradation. Specialized designs help minimize the creation of fines and angel hair that can contaminate the final product.

Power Generation

Power plants, especially those utilizing coal or biomass fuels, rely on pneumatic conveying systems to transport fuel and waste products like fly ash. Diverter valves in power generation applications must operate reliably under high-temperature conditions while handling highly abrasive materials. Durability and minimal maintenance requirements are essential to prevent costly downtime.

The Everlasting Valve Advantage

While traditional diverter valves may struggle with the harsh demands of industrial pneumatic conveying, Everlasting Valve’s innovative self-lapping, self-cleaning design sets a new standard for performance and longevity. Unlike conventional valves that wear out over time, Everlasting diverter valves actually improve with use, creating an increasingly tight seal as they operate.

This unique design provides several key advantages:

• Extended service life – Many Everlasting diverter valves remain in operation decades after installation
• Reduced maintenance requirements – The self-cleaning mechanism prevents material buildup that causes traditional valves to fail
• Superior performance in harsh environments – Whether handling abrasive materials, high temperatures, or challenging process conditions, Everlasting valves deliver consistent, reliable operation
• Minimal downtime – When maintenance is eventually required, Everlasting valves can be serviced quickly and efficiently, minimizing production disruptions

Choosing the Right Diverter Valve for Your Application

When selecting diverter valves for pneumatic conveying applications, several factors must be considered:

1. Material characteristics – The abrasiveness, particle size, and flow properties of your process material will influence valve selection
2. System pressure and flow rate – Ensure the valve is rated for your specific operating conditions
3. Installation configuration – Diverter valves are available in various configurations to accommodate different piping layouts
4. Actuation method – Options include manual, pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic actuation depending on system requirements
5. Maintenance needs – Consider ease of access for inspection and servicing

Rather than selecting an off-the-shelf solution, working with experienced valve engineers ensures you get a diverter valve optimized for your specific application. This tailored approach leads to better performance, longer service life, and ultimately, a stronger return on investment.

Conclusion

Diverter valves play a crucial role in pneumatic conveying systems across numerous industries, from food processing to cement production. Their ability to reliably direct material flow while withstanding challenging process conditions makes them indispensable components in modern industrial operations.

For applications demanding exceptional performance and longevity, Everlasting Valve’s innovative diverter valve design offers significant advantages over traditional options. With their self-lapping, self-cleaning operation and robust construction, these valves provide reliable service even in the most demanding environments.

Contact Everlasting Valve today to discuss your project requirements.