Highly precise and efficient powder feeding system based on gravimetric feedback

Precise and efficient feeding of fine powder remains a considerable challenge in many fields, owing to its adhesion, heterogeneity, and low flowability. To this end, a new system based on gravimetric feedback is developed in this study. The effects of the two control parameters, protruded length and rotational speed of the stirrer of the feeder, on the feeding rate and braking error of the Cu powder and Bi powder are measured and analyzed in the experiments. Based on the results, a control strategy is proposed for coordinating the two control parameters to achieve a feeding process with high efficiency and accuracy. The strategy requires no any formulas and thus remove the influence introduced from the type and characteristics of the powder. Therefore, the system with the proposed strategy is suitable for the feeding operation of a wide range of powder, which would be applicable in such fields as pharmacy, materials. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.