Blowing and control of electrostatic phenomena

Improve efficiency with air knives and active ionizers

In industry, compressed air blowing operations are ubiquitous: drying parts, removing liquids, dust removal, and cooling. Yet these essential functions are often carried out using poorly optimized solutions, resulting in high energy consumption with limited efficiency.

In response to these challenges, air knives and air rings stand out as high-performance solutions, significantly improving airflow efficiency while reducing operating costs.

Technology based on the Coanda effect

The principle behind these devices relies on an optimized aerodynamic design that leverages the Coanda effect. This phenomenon allows compressed air to follow a surface and entrain a large volume of ambient air.

The result is a narrow, uniform, high-velocity air jet capable of delivering strong blowing force with reduced air consumption.

Air knives: precision and adaptability

Air knives, also known as air blades, are particularly suited for linear applications. They generate a continuous air curtain across the entire width of the area to be treated, ensuring uniform blowing.

They are used in many applications, including:
• drying after washing,
• removal of liquid films,
• surface dust removal,
• creation of thermal barriers.

A key advantage lies in the ability to precisely adjust airflow by modifying the air gap. By changing shim thickness, users can fine-tune dynamic pressure and air volume according to process requirements.

Optimized air consumption

One of the main advantages of these solutions is the reduction in compressed air consumption, a frequently underestimated energy cost in industry.

Performance depends on several parameters, including supply pressure, as well as the diameter and width of the air gap.
To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended to provide sufficient air supply and use high-flow fittings.

Wide range of applications across industries

These technologies are used in many industrial sectors:
• food processing,
• plastics industry,
• metalworking,
• printing,
• packaging.

They are used for surface drying, dust removal, cooling, and the creation of thermal barriers, thereby improving product quality while optimizing production line performance.

Combining blowing and antistatic solutions: a performance lever

In certain environments, particularly in plastics and packaging, electrostatic charges can reduce blowing efficiency by promoting dust adhesion and, more importantly, causing production defects or machine downtime.

To address this issue, air knives and air rings can be combined with antistatic devices. This combination neutralizes electrostatic charges while ensuring optimal cleaning or drying.

ALPHA AUTOMATISMES offers complete solutions integrating both functions, delivering significant gains in production quality and reliability.

A simple, robust, and adaptable solution

Manufactured from aluminum or stainless steel, these devices are designed to meet the demands of industrial environments. Their installation is facilitated by simple mounting systems (M8 screws, standard brackets), and their adaptability allows quick integration into existing production lines.

Conclusion

Air knives and air rings are now an effective solution for optimizing industrial blowing operations. By combining performance, energy efficiency, and compatibility with antistatic solutions, they meet the growing demands for productivity and quality.

A smart investment to modernize and enhance the reliability of industrial processes.