cryogenic screw feed nveyor

A cryogenic screw feed conveyor is a specialized type of screw conveyor designed to handle materials at extremely low temperatures, typically below -150°C (-238°F), such as in liquid nitrogen or other cryogenic environments. These conveyors are used in industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and aerospace for transporting frozen or cryogenically cooled materials.

Key Features of Cryogenic Screw Feed Conveyors:
1. Material Compatibility
– Made from stainless steel (e.g., 304 or 316) or other cryogenically resistant materials to prevent brittleness and thermal contraction.
– Special seals and insulation to prevent moisture ingress and ice buildup.

2. Thermal Management
– Insulated housings to minimize heat transfer.
– Jacketed designs for liquid nitrogen or other cooling media circulation.

3. Design Considerations
– Reduced pitch screws to prevent material degradation.
– Variable speed drives for controlled feeding.
– Explosion-proof motors (if handling flammable materials).

4. Applications
– Transporting frozen food products (e.g., ice cream, meat).
– Handling cryogenically ground plastics or rubber.
– Moving liquefied gases or solid CO₂ (dry ice).
– Pharmaceutical freeze-drying processes.

Challenges & Solutions:
– Thermal Expansion/Contraction: Use flexible couplings and expansion joints.
– Material Stickiness: Anti-stick coatings (e.g., Teflon) on screws.
– Condation/Icing: Heated housings or nitrogen purging.

Manufacturers & Suppliers:
Companies like Spiroflow, KWS Manufacturing, Flexicon, and Renold offer custom cryogenic screw conveyor solutions.

Would you like details on a specific application or design aspect?