This article presents a detailed engineering case study on the long-distance pneumatic conveying of sodium sulfate (commonly known as Glauber's salt or mirabilite) in Bangkok, Thailand. The project was successfully executed by Shandong Haide Powder Engineering Co., Ltd., a leading provider of bulk material handling solutions. The conveying system was designed to transport sodium sulfate powder over a significant distance, ensuring reliable, dust-free, and energy-efficient operation in a tropical urban environment. This case illustrates the technical expertise required for handling hygroscopic and abrasive powders through extended pipelines, and highlights the specific considerations for pneumatic conveying in a densely populated city like Bangkok.
The client, a major chemical manufacturer based in Bangkok, required a continuous and clean method to transfer sodium sulfate from a production facility to a distant storage silo. The distance between the two points exceeded 1.5 kilometers, making conventional mechanical conveyors impractical due to space constraints and high maintenance costs. The site conditions in Bangkok posed additional challenges: high ambient humidity, frequent rainfall, and limited available ground space for equipment installation. After evaluating multiple options, the client selected Shandong Haide Powder Engineering Co., Ltd. to design and install a long-distance pneumatic conveying system specifically tailored for sodium sulfate powder. The system had to handle a throughput of 20 tons per hour while maintaining product quality and preventing moisture absorption or caking.
Sodium sulfate, in its powdered form, presents several unique challenges for pneumatic conveying. It is moderately hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air, leading to clumping and pipeline blockages. Additionally, the powder has a relatively high bulk density and can be abrasive, which accelerates wear on pipes and bends. To address these issues, Shandong Haide Powder Engineering Co., Ltd. employed a dense-phase pneumatic conveying system operating at low velocity. This approach minimizes particle degradation and reduces the risk of moisture pickup by maintaining a high solids-to-air ratio. The pipeline was constructed from wear-resistant steel with a smooth interior finish, and strategically placed booster stations were installed along the route to maintain pressure and flow stability over the 1.5-kilometer distance. Special attention was given to the bend radius and material selection to extend the system's service life and reduce maintenance frequency.
The long-distance pneumatic conveying system for sodium sulfate in Bangkok comprises several integrated components. At the feeding point, a rotary airlock valve and a venturi eductor introduce the powder into the pipeline with minimal air leakage. The main conveying line includes a series of stainless steel pipes with a diameter of 150 mm, supported by elevated structures to avoid ground-level obstacles. Three intermediate booster stations, each equipped with a pressure vessel and a control valve, re-energize the flow to overcome frictional losses over the extended distance. At the receiving end, a cyclone separator and a bag filter unit separate the sodium sulfate from the conveying air, with the collected dust returned to the system. The entire process is controlled by a PLC-based automation system that monitors pressure, flow rate, and temperature, ensuring optimal performance and immediate fault detection. The system was designed to operate silently and with minimal vibration, meeting the strict noise regulations of Bangkok's industrial zones.
Since its commissioning, the long-distance pneumatic conveying system for sodium sulfate has delivered outstanding operational benefits. The system consistently achieves a conveying capacity of 20 tons per hour, with a power consumption of only 0.8 kWh per ton—significantly lower than traditional mechanical conveyors. The enclosed pipeline prevents any exposure of the powder to the environment, eliminating dust emissions and protecting workers' health. The dense-phase mode also reduces wear on the pipes, with the first major replacement scheduled after 10 years of continuous operation. The system's ability to handle humid Bangkok air without product degradation has been validated through extensive testing: the moisture content of the sodium sulfate remains below 0.3% throughout the conveying process. Maintenance downtime is limited to a few hours per month, mainly for cleaning the bag filters and inspecting the rotary valves. The client reported a 30% reduction in overall material handling costs compared to their previous truck-and-bucket method.
Shandong Haide Powder Engineering Co., Ltd., based in Shandong, China, has established itself as a trusted partner for pneumatic conveying projects worldwide. With over a decade of experience in designing, manufacturing, and installing systems for powders like sodium sulfate, the company brings deep technical knowledge and proven reliability. The Bangkok project exemplifies the company's ability to customize solutions for challenging environments, including long distances, high humidity, and space limitations. Every system is engineered to meet the specific material properties and site conditions, ensuring seamless integration with existing production lines. The company provides comprehensive after-sales support, including on-site training, spare parts supply, and remote monitoring capabilities. For more information about this case or to discuss your own pneumatic conveying requirements, please contact Manager Zhang at Shandong Haide Powder Engineering Co., Ltd., telephone: 15662777102. The team is ready to assist with feasibility studies, system design, and installation services for sodium sulfate or any other powder material.
For inquiries regarding pneumatic conveying systems for sodium sulfate, long-distance pipeline solutions, or any other powder handling needs, please reach out to Manager Zhang directly. Phone: 15662777102. Shandong Haide Powder Engineering Co., Ltd. is located in Shandong, China, and serves clients in Thailand, Southeast Asia, and beyond. We look forward to helping you achieve efficient, safe, and cost-effective material transport.
Shandong Headpowder Engineering Co., Ltd.
156-6277-7102（Manager Zhang） 
0531-83386006 
Jinan City, Shandong Province, China 
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