The Different Types of Pneumatic Trailer Parts
Pneumatic trailers are commonly used in the transportation of a variety of materials such as sand, cement, and grains. These trailers rely on air pressure to move the cargo out of the container through a series of hoses and valves. While the operation seems simple, these trailers use a vast array of different parts, each of which contributes to the proper functioning of the trailer as a whole. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of pneumatic trailer parts.
Valves
A pneumatic trailer usually has different types of valves that regulate airflow and the flow of materials from the container to the delivery point. The primary valve is the main discharge valve, which is usually located at the bottom of the trailer. The main valve is responsible for regulating the flow of material from the container to the hose connected to the delivery point. These valves can be manual or pneumatic and are made for different types of products. Other valves include air supply valves, check valves, and safety relief valves.
Hoses
Pneumatic trailers use hoses to transfer the material from the container to the delivery point. These hoses come in varying sizes and materials, depending on the type of product being transported and the distance to be covered. The hoses’ diameter is crucial as it determines the amount of material that can be transferred in a specific amount of time. Additionally, the hoses need to be made from durable materials that can handle the harsh conditions of being used in a pneumatic trailer.
Blower
A pneumatic trailer’s main workhorse is the blower unit, which is responsible for creating the initial air pressure that pushes the material out of the container and into the delivery hose. A typical blower is often powered by a diesel engine, which supplies the necessary torque required. The blower unit has numerous components that work together to create the necessary air pressure, such as vanes, rotor, and a housing unit. These components need to be regularly maintained and replaced to ensure that the blower remains efficient.
Manifold
The manifold is a component of the pneumatic trailer that connects the hoses to the blower unit. A pneumatic trailer usually has several hoses that connect to the manifold, allowing for the simultaneous transfer of cargo. The manifold also serves as a temporary storage unit for the product, allowing for versatile delivery times. These components are usually made from aluminum, which ensures that they are rust-free and resistant to wear and tear.
Cargo Tank
The cargo tank is the primary storage unit in a pneumatic trailer that holds the product being transported. These tanks come in different shapes and sizes, but they are usually cylindrical in shape. The tank’s internal surface is typically coated with a layer of enamel that prevents the product from sticking to the walls and corroding the metal. The tanks also come with pressure gauges that indicate the amount of material being transported and the pressure within the tank.
Fill and Vent Pipes
The fill and vent pipes are crucial for loading and unloading the product from the cargo tank. The fill pipe is usually a large diameter pipe that allows for quick filling of the tank. The vent pipe, on the other hand, is used to release pressure from the tank during loading and unloading. Both pipes need to be well-maintained and free of debris to allow for seamless operation.
A pneumatic trailer is a complex piece of equipment that uses different types of components to carry out its functions. From the valves, hoses, blower, manifold, cargo tank to the fill and vent pipes, every component is essential to the operation of the pneumatic trailer. Regular maintenance and replacement of these parts ensure that the trailer operates efficiently and safely!