In manufacturing, choosing the right feeder system is crucial for efficient bulk material flow
There are two basic variations of feeder operations known as volumetric and gravimetric. Two primary types of feeder systems are volumetric and gravimetric feeders, each offering distinct advantages based on specific application requirements.
Gravimetric feeder
A gravimetric feeder, often referred to a loss in weight feeder, operates by dosing materials based on weight. In gravimetric dosing, the weight of the dosed additive is measured using a load cell that is the foundation of the entire system. Weight is calculated using loss in weight technology, which measures the reduced weight while dosing.
Benefits and features of gravimetric feeders
- High accuracy.
- Self-adjusting/self-calibrating.
- Easy to operate.
- Fluctuations in deensiy do no effect outcome.
- Good for weighing stubborn and difficult liquid meal types.
Volumetric feeder
Conversely, a volumetric feeder is a dosing system that supplies the production system with a certain volume of material in a set timeframe, based on the so-called displacement principle. Unlike gravimetric feeders, the dosing rate of a volumetric feeder is manually set and may require adjustments depending on the characteristics of the materials being processed.
Benefits and features of volumetric feeders
- Ideal for smaller producion processes and companies who are looking to save on dosing equipment.
- Reatively low proces dosing system.
Choosing between a volumetric and a gravimetric feeder
Deciding between a volumetric and gravimetric feeder hinge on the level of control needed for your application. If precise control over material dosage and consistency is paramount, a gravimetric feeding system – such as a loss in weigh feeder – would be the ideal choice. This system ensures accuracy by directly measuring the weight of materials, making it suitable for applications where dosing precision is critical.
On the other hand, if your primary requirement is simply to regulate material flow without the need for precise weight-based dosing, a volumetric feeder may suffice. Volumetric feeders are more straightforward in operation and can be effective for applications where exact weight measurements are not essential.
Whether you choose a gravimetric or volumetric feeder, the key consideration is the level of control required for your specific operation. By understanding the differences between these feeder types and evaluating your application needs, you can confidently choose the feeder system that best aligns with your production requirements.
