Question

For transportation of boiler ash, which one of the following conveyors will be useful?

• A. Belt Conveyor
• B. Screw Conveyor
• C. Pipe Conveyor
• D. Bucket elevator

Hint:

Use screw conveyors for fine, abrasive materials like ash — they offer enclosed, controlled, and efficient material transport.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Boiler ash is typically a fine, abrasive, and sometimes hot material. Efficient handling of such bulk solids requires a conveyor system that provides controlled, enclosed movement with minimal dust generation and reduced maintenance issues.
A screw conveyor is particularly suitable for handling boiler ash due to the following reasons:
- It is enclosed, which prevents dust from escaping.
- It provides consistent flow and is ideal for transporting dry, fine, and abrasive materials.
- It can also operate at inclined angles, making it versatile for plant layouts.
Now let's examine the other options:
- (1) Belt Conveyor: While good for bulk materials, it is not ideal for ash due to poor containment and dust emission.
- (3) Pipe Conveyor: More suited for long-distance conveying; costly and complex for ash handling.
- (4) Bucket Elevator: Suitable for vertical lifting but not preferred for continuous horizontal or inclined movement of abrasive ash.
Thus, a screw conveyor offers the best combination of dust control, material compatibility, and operational flexibility.