3 Problems You May Encounter When Using Pneumatic Vibrators

Many pneumatic vibrators have been designed to work with a high degree of reliability. However, some of those vibrators may develop defects that may affect their performance. This article discusses some of those defects and explains what you can do to restore normal functionality to your material flow aids.

Vibration Noise

Manufacturers of pneumatic vibrators usually design them to operate as noiselessly as possible. You should therefore watch out for unusual noise levels while this equipment is operating. Two key factors usually cause noise as the vibrator is operating. The first cause is a loose screw anchoring the vibrator to the chute or conveyance system. The loose screw starts making noise as it absorbs the vibratory energy created by the motor of the vibrator. This problem can be easily fixed by tightening the screws using the recommended torque. Secondly, vibratory noise may be due to a failing weld seam on the U-shaped steel support onto which the vibrator was attached. That steel support helps to channel all the vibratory energy into the material transport system through a limited section of that transport system. Over time, the weld seam can fail. Inspect this support and weld it anew in case you confirm that the weld was failing.

Insufficient Vibratory Force

The vibratory energy of your pneumatic vibrators may reduce because of several factors. For instance, the supply of compressed air may be inadequate due to a problem with the compression system. A leak in the compressed air hose can reduce the amount of air available, for example. Secondly, some of the materials being conveyed may have entered the vibrator. The exhaust vent may have also developed a clog. Disassemble the vibrator and the air supply system so that you can identify and fix the problem. 

Vibrator Won't Start

Low pressure in the air supply may prevent the vibrator from starting. Similarly, a power disruption of the remote control unit of the vibrator may prevent that unit from sending commands to the vibrator. This is particularly possible if the power source of the control unit is different from the power source of the vibrator. You could have also made a mistake during the installation process, especially if you are installing the vibrator for the first time. Increase the compressed air pressure to fix any air supply issues. Tap power for the control unit from the same source as the vibrator's power. You could also redo the installation process if other options don't yield results.

Get technical help in case the troubleshooting suggestions above fail to restore satisfactory performance from your pneumatic vibrators. Otherwise, you risk having avoidable problems within your material transport system.

For more information, contact local professionals like VSS - Vibration Systems & Solutions (Australia).