chute design

[JTPE]

I am looking for information on design of a stepped chute to carry a bulk material discharged from a conveyor. How are the chute dimensions calculated knowing the material properties? I also know the chute angle.

The material is being discharged from a valve that has a discharge opening of 4sqft. Do I just match that area the whole way down? The chute is at a 50 degree slope with a stepped "rock box" bottom to reduce wear.

Thanks in advance.

 

[CanuckMiner]

JTPE,

I suggest reviewing some of the information from CEMA at

http://www.cemanet.org

. Also, Martin Engineering has a lot of good information on transfer points and chute designs (their "Foundations" series), but primarily aimed at minimizing/controlling dust.

There are lots of things to consider in the design of chutes. Some of these include: type of material (talcum powder, copper ore, sand, feathers), angle of repose of the material, stickiness of the material, maximum lump size, drop height, abrasivity of the material, the nature/dimensions of the opening (you mention valve), toxicity of the material, can dust be tolerated, does the chute need to be enclosed or open, etc.

Cheers,
CanuckMiner

 

[WoodyPE]

What kind of conveyor? Is it an auger?

What kind of material is being conveyed? Is it a powder?

Certain materials can "bridge over" so the size of the hole can matter.