Integrated Screw Feeder with Air Vibrator and Agitator – A Multifunctional Solution to Powder Bridging
Powder bridging is a common issue in powder handling systems, where materials form an arch inside the hopper and block the flow. This is particularly problematic when dealing with fine, cohesive, or moisture-sensitive powders. Even with a well-designed screw feeder, bridging can cause inconsistent feeding or complete stoppage.
To solve this, we developed a compact screw feeder that integrates an air vibrator and an agitator into a single unit. This multifunctional design ensures stable feeding even with challenging powders, while keeping the equipment footprint minimal.
The air vibrator is mounted on the hopper wall and periodically generates vibration to loosen material stuck to the surface. Meanwhile, the internal agitator rotates slowly within the hopper to break up powder buildup and guide material steadily toward the screw. These two mechanisms work in tandem with the screw to maintain a constant powder flow.
One of our customers—a chemical manufacturer—was experiencing regular feeding interruptions due to powder bridging. Their operators often had to tap the hopper manually to restore flow. They also handled multiple types of powder, each behaving differently, which made consistent operation difficult.
After installing our integrated unit with a screw feeder, air vibrator, and agitator, the customer saw immediate improvements. Feeding became stable without the need for manual assistance. The system also adapted well to material changes without requiring fine adjustments, and its compact size allowed easy integration into their existing setup.
By combining feeding, vibration, and agitation in one unit, this design reduces labor, increases efficiency, and minimizes downtime. Both the air vibrator and agitator can be operated independently or adjusted according to the powder’s characteristics, making the system highly flexible.
This solution is ideal for lab-scale or pilot-scale systems, as well as compact production lines that handle a variety of powders. It has already proven effective in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, where flow problems and powder variability are frequent concerns.
If you’re struggling with powder bridging, inconsistent flow, or time-consuming maintenance, consider upgrading to a screw feeder equipped with an air vibrator and agitator. It’s a practical and reliable solution for modern powder handling challenges.