Continuous Feeding

What are the key characteristics of continuous feeding?

In contrast to batch feeding, material is not added in individual batches, but as a continuous flow. The goal is to maintain the specified mass- or volume-related feeding rate as consistently as possible.

Continuous feeding is used in numerous industrial processes, for example when raw materials, additives, or other components must be fed into a process continuously and in a specified ratio.

How does continuous feeding work?

The material feed can be volumetric or gravimetric. In volumetric feeding, the feeder dispenses a defined volume of material per unit of time. By contrast, in gravimetric feeding, the actual mass dispensed is measured and used to control the feed rate.

A typical gravimetric method for continuous processes is loss-in-weight (LIW). This principle is used in loss-in-weight feeders: Hopper and feeder are weighed together. The current material flow is determined based on their weight loss during feeding. The control system compares this with the preset target value and adjusts the feed rate if necessary.

Depending on bulk material and application, screw or vibrating feeders can be used, among others.

When is continuous feeding a good solution?

Continuous feeding is particularly well-suited for production processes that require a consistent, uninterrupted flow of bulk material. If multiple components are fed simultaneously, their respective feed rates can be coordinated in a defined ratio.

Selection and design of the feeding system depend, among other factors, on bulk material properties, required feed rate and feed accuracy, as well as requirements for cleanability and product changeovers.