Troubleshooting Pneumatic Conveying Elbows

Rapid Bend Wall Wear

Examine where the wall thins: outer curve, inlet, chamber impact area, weld or lining joint. Possible contributors include increased particle velocity, abrasive feed, unfavorable trajectory, unsuitable contact material and changes in conveying regime. Record the material, gas conditions, conveyed tonnes and measured wall condition.

Unexpected Downstream Wear

Particles exiting a bend may continue toward an outer wall of the next straight section. Inspect downstream spool pieces rather than evaluating the elbow alone. If the wear location moves after fitting a different elbow, review the outlet stream and adjacent geometry.

Blockage and Pressure Fluctuations

Possible contributors include moisture, cohesive material, oversize particles, unstable feeding, inadequate conveying conditions and product retention. Observe whether the issue occurs at startup, reduced rate, changeover or shutdown. Compare the pressure trend before and during the blockage.

Fines and Particle Damage

Where product degradation increases, compare upstream and downstream particle distribution under equivalent test conditions. Record material temperature, velocity, throughput and route geometry. Do not automatically assume that greater wall hardness or a longer CLR will solve a breakage problem.

Material Retention and Cross-Contamination

Pockets, recessed chambers, segmented joints and liner interfaces can create retention sites. Map the cleaning sequence and examine residue after conveying stops. Assess the entire line, not just the elbow.

Liner Damage or Displacement

Check the condition of accessible ceramic/basalt joints and any backing material. Thermal cycles, impact, installation damage or inappropriate cleaning procedures can contribute. A damaged liner may create a bore restriction and increase wear or blockage risk.

Flange Leakage and Vibration

Check alignment, support loads, flange facing, gasket selection, fastener condition and operating pressure. A matching bolt pattern does not establish that the connection was assembled correctly or that the elbow is rated for the duty.

Symptom-to-Evidence Checklist

These are possible diagnostic paths, not a remote diagnosis of a specific machine.

Request a Technical Assessment

Send a short description of the problem, installation photos, drawing, material name and recent changes in operation. We can help determine which additional data would support an engineering review. Request assessment.