This article presents a detailed case study of a successful project executed by Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd., a leading engineering firm based in Shandong, China. The project involved the design, installation, and commissioning of a dilute phase pneumatic conveying system specifically tailored for Glauber salt powder (also known as mirabilite powder) at a chemical processing facility located in Hami, Xinjiang. The primary objective of the project was to establish a reliable, efficient, and dust-free method for transporting Glauber salt powder from storage silos to various production units, replacing traditional mechanical conveying methods that were plagued by high maintenance costs, material degradation, and environmental pollution. The entire system was engineered to handle the unique physical and chemical properties of Glauber salt powder, which is highly hygroscopic, abrasive, and prone to caking under certain conditions. By leveraging the expertise of Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd., the client achieved a significant improvement in operational efficiency, a reduction in material loss, and a cleaner working environment.
The chemical enterprise in Hami, Xinjiang, specializes in the production of various industrial chemicals derived from natural mineral resources. Glauber salt powder, a key raw material for manufacturing detergents, glass, and paper, is produced on-site through a drying and milling process. The existing material handling system relied on bucket elevators and screw conveyors, which frequently experienced blockages, mechanical wear, and spillage. Moreover, the dusty nature of the powder led to respiratory hazards for workers and required frequent cleaning. The enterprise sought a modern solution that could offer enclosed conveying, minimal product degradation, and flexible routing. After evaluating multiple options, they decided to implement a dilute phase pneumatic conveying system. The term "dilute phase pneumatic conveying" refers to a method where the material is suspended in a high-velocity air stream, typically with a low solid-to-air ratio, allowing for long-distance transport through pipelines. This technology is particularly suitable for free-flowing, non-cohesive powders like Glauber salt powder, provided that the system is designed to account for the material's abrasiveness and moisture sensitivity.
Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. conducted a thorough site survey and material characterization before designing the dilute phase pneumatic conveying system. The material properties of the Glauber salt powder were analyzed, including particle size distribution, bulk density, moisture content, and angle of repose. Based on the data, the engineering team selected a positive pressure dilute phase system with a rotary airlock feeder and a Roots blower. The conveying pipeline was constructed from wear-resistant steel with a smooth interior surface to minimize friction and prevent material buildup. The system was designed to transport the Glauber salt powder at a rate of 5 tons per hour over a horizontal distance of 80 meters and a vertical lift of 15 meters. Key components included a surge hopper, a rotary valve, a conveying line, a cyclone separator, and a bag filter for dust collection. The entire system was automated using a programmable logic controller (PLC) with touch-screen interface, allowing operators to monitor pressure, flow rate, and material level in real time. Special attention was given to the air drying and dehumidification system to prevent the Glauber salt powder from absorbing moisture, which could cause clumping and blockages. The system also incorporated vibration pads and acoustic insulation to reduce noise levels.
During the installation and commissioning phase, several challenges emerged that required innovative engineering solutions. One of the primary issues was the tendency of the Glauber salt powder to build up static electricity, which could lead to sparks and potential fire hazards in a dry environment. The engineering team from Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. addressed this by installing grounding straps and conductive piping sections, as well as adding a static-neutralizing device at the inlet of the rotary valve. Another challenge was the abrasiveness of the powder, which caused rapid wear on the standard pipe bends. The team replaced the standard bends with ceramic-lined wear-resistant bends, significantly extending the service life of the conveying line. Additionally, the high altitude and dry climate of Hami (elevation over 1,000 meters) affected the performance of the Roots blower, requiring adjustments to the air volume and pressure settings. The engineers performed a thorough recalibration and installed a variable frequency drive (VFD) to optimize energy consumption. The system underwent a two-week trial run, during which the conveying efficiency, dust emission levels, and product quality were closely monitored. The final results showed a conveying efficiency of over 98%, with zero product contamination and a dust emission level below 2 mg/m³, well within Chinese environmental standards.
The successful implementation of the dilute phase pneumatic conveying system brought numerous benefits to the chemical enterprise in Hami. First, the enclosed conveying method eliminated dust emissions, creating a much safer and healthier working environment for the plant operators. Second, the maintenance costs were drastically reduced because the pneumatic system has fewer moving parts compared to mechanical conveyors, and the wear-resistant components required replacement only after 18 months of continuous operation. Third, the product quality improved significantly because the gentle handling of the Glauber salt powder in the dilute phase prevented particle breakage and degradation, ensuring consistent particle size distribution. Fourth, the system's automated control allowed for precise batching and blending of the Glauber salt powder with other raw materials, enhancing the overall production efficiency. The enterprise reported a 15% increase in production capacity and a 20% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous mechanical conveying system. Furthermore, the system's flexibility enabled the plant to easily reconfigure the conveying routes for future expansion or process changes. The project has become a benchmark for similar applications in the region, and the client has expressed full satisfaction with the performance and reliability of the equipment.
Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shandong, China, has established a strong reputation in the field of pneumatic conveying systems, particularly for dilute phase conveying of chemical raw materials, including Glauber salt powder, soda ash, calcium carbonate, and other bulk solids. The company's team of experienced engineers specializes in custom-designed solutions that address the specific challenges of each material, such as abrasiveness, moisture sensitivity, and electrostatic hazards. With a proven track record of successful projects across China—including the Hami Xinjiang project—Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. offers end-to-end services from feasibility study and system design to equipment manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and after-sales support. The company's commitment to quality is reflected in its use of premium materials, rigorous testing protocols, and compliance with international standards such as ISO 9001. Whether you need a small-scale system for a laboratory or a large industrial system for a chemical plant, Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. can provide a tailored solution that maximizes efficiency, safety, and return on investment.
If you are interested in implementing a dilute phase pneumatic conveying system for your chemical raw material handling needs, or if you would like to discuss a specific project similar to the Xinjiang Hami Glauber salt powder case, please feel free to reach out to the engineering team at Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. The contact person for new projects and technical consultations is Manager Zhang, who has extensive experience in designing and commissioning pneumatic conveying systems for various industries. You can contact Manager Zhang directly via WeChat at 15662777102. Manager Zhang will be happy to provide you with a preliminary assessment, system recommendations, and a competitive quotation. Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. looks forward to assisting you with your material handling challenges and ensuring a smooth, efficient, and cost-effective project execution.
The project in Hami, Xinjiang, serves as a compelling example of how advanced dilute phase pneumatic conveying technology can transform the material handling process in the chemical industry. By replacing outdated mechanical conveyors with a modern, enclosed, and automated system, the chemical enterprise not only improved its operational efficiency but also enhanced workplace safety and environmental compliance. The collaboration between the client and Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. demonstrated the importance of thorough material analysis, custom engineering, and on-site support. As the chemical industry continues to evolve toward higher automation and stricter environmental regulations, the demand for reliable dilute phase pneumatic conveying systems for Glauber salt powder and other chemical raw materials is expected to grow. Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd. remains at the forefront of this technology, continuously innovating to provide solutions that meet the most demanding requirements. For any inquiries, please contact Manager Zhang at WeChat: 15662777102 to discuss your project needs.
Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd.
156-6277-7102（Zhang manager） 
0531-83386006 
Jinan City, Shandong, China Province 
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