Sectional flights are a critical component in the design and function of screw conveyors. These helical segments, also known as screw flights, are formed from flat plates and then welded to a central shaft or pipe. Their primary purpose is to move, mix, or control the flow of bulk materials in a wide range of industrial applications, including agriculture, mining, wastewater treatment, food processing, and manufacturing.
What Are Sectional Flights?
Sectional flights are individual, pre-formed pieces of metal that are cut and pressed into a helix with a precise pitch and diameter. Unlike continuous flights, which are formed from a continuous ribbon of metal, sectional flights are made from flat steel plates that are cut in a specific pattern and then rolled or pressed into shape. This manufacturing process makes them ideal for custom or heavy-duty applications where unique specifications are required.
Each flight is typically a 360-degree segment of a helix. These segments can be assembled around a central shaft or pipe to create a screw conveyor of any length or configuration. Sectional flights can be made from various materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, abrasion-resistant alloys, and other specialty metals depending on the application’s specific needs.
Advantages of Sectional Flights
One of the main advantages of sectional flights is their ability to be manufactured to exact dimensions. This makes them suitable for customized solutions, especially when the conveyor requires a non-standard pitch, diameter, or thickness. Their versatility also allows them to be used in environments that deal with abrasive, corrosive, or high-temperature materials.
In addition to customization, sectional flights offer increased durability. Since they are made from thicker materials and can be engineered for specific tasks, they tend to last longer than other types of flights, especially in high-stress environments. This reduces maintenance costs and downtime in the long term.
Applications of Sectional Flights
Sectional flights are used across many industries. In agriculture, they are essential for transporting grain and feed. In wastewater treatment plants, they help in moving sludge and other waste materials. In mining, they are used to transport heavy and abrasive ores. Food and beverage industries also use sectional flights for handling powders, grains, and other bulk ingredients hygienically and efficiently.
Because of their ability to be customized, sectional flights are often used in specialized applications like inclined conveyors, mixers, feeders, and metering devices. They are also ideal for retrofitting or replacing worn-out flights in existing systems.
Manufacturing and Installation
The manufacturing process of sectional flights involves cutting the metal plate to size, forming it into the helical shape, and welding it onto the shaft. This process requires precision and skill to ensure that the flights are uniform and that they fit together correctly when assembled. Any imperfections in size or alignment can lead to poor performance or increased wear.
During installation, it is essential to align each section properly and weld it securely to ensure smooth and efficient operation. Maintenance and periodic inspection are also important to identify signs of wear, corrosion, or misalignment that can compromise the conveyor’s effectiveness.
Conclusion
Sectional flights are a fundamental component in many screw conveyor systems. Their adaptability, strength, and customizability make them ideal for a wide range of industrial applications. Whether transporting dry bulk goods, handling abrasive materials, or dealing with harsh environments, sectional flights offer a reliable and efficient solution. Their long-lasting performance and flexible design continue to make them a preferred choice in modern material handling systems.