Apron Feeder or pan feeder is a type of bulk material handling equipment used to transport large, heavy or abrasive material from the hopper.
Apron Feeder or Pan Feeder Components
Apron feeder or pan feeder consists of the following main assembly groups that work together to efficiently convey material:
1) Chain-Pan Assembly
The main components of the apron feeder are main frame with two endless chain strands provided with bolted overlapping pans. The pans have ribs provided to improve stability and to help the material transport. Sprockets and rollers support the apron chain-pan assembly and allow them to move smoothly along the feeder’s length.
2) Drive Arrangement
Pan feeder is driven by an electric motor (with VFD) through couplings and gearbox. The motor and gear box are supported on the drive base-frame. Output shaft of gearbox is coupled by gear & pinion to the head shaft of apron feeder supported in anti-friction bearings.
3) Takeup Assembly
The function of take-up assembly in an apron feeder is to maintain proper tension and alignment of the conveyor chain.
4) Skirts
The skirts are used to hold the convey material on the apron feeder and prevent it from spilling off the sides. They are usually made of steel are placed on both side of the apron pans.
5) Dribble Conveyor
Dribble conveyor are mounted below the apron feeders or pan feeder. The function of dribble conveyor is to controlling and directing the spillage or overflow material back onto the conveying system, preventing material loss and ensuring efficient handling and transport along the feeder.
6) Safety Switches
ZSS Switch – The speed detection device is a zero speed indicator switch mounted at the tail pulley of the apron feeder. The function ZSS (Zero speed switch) is to ensure that the tail pulley are rotating when the feeder is running.
Pull Chord Switch (PCS) – It consists of cord connected to a switch located along the conveyor or feeder route. In case of an emergency or if someone needs to quickly stop the feeder, they pull the cord. This action triggers an immediate shutdown of the feeder, preventing potential accidents or hazards by quickly stopping the movement of materials along the conveyor.
Operating Principle
The material to be conveyed is fed by wagon tippler or truck in concrete hopper located above the feeder. The pans of the apron feeder move along a track, driven by chains or rollers. As they move, they collect and carry the material from the hopper to discharge chute.
Apron pans are of heavy ‘I’ section design. Apron pans along with carrying rollers and main frame absorb shock of material falling from wagon tippler or truck.
Variable speed mechanisms in feeders offer the flexibility to manage and alter the flow of convey material as needed. This allows operators to regulate the flow of materials based on the downstream requirements.
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