Problems with moisture
Pneumatic conveying system is the most preferred material handling method for powders. Cement and flyash are commonly conveyed pneumatic ally in the plant.
Distance of conveying, conveying rate and properties of conveyed material are important factors affecting determinants like pipe diameter, air quality and quantity, selection of system components and power consumption.
Performance of one of my system was substantially reduced due to poor air quality than specified - presence of moisture. The impact of performance reduction was so large that it threatened the plant operation.
This was due to the property of material being conveyed. Hygroscopic material needs to have completely dry air. Little moisture in the air reduced the operating diameter and ultimately chocked the pipe.