What are the different characteristics that can affect the flow of bulk solids and how?
The main characteristics which can affect flow of bulk solids are as below:
> Moisture Content: when moisture content is high the bulk solids become sticky in nature. Moisture can sometimes be absorbed from atmosphere by some solids.
> Temperature: Flow of the bulk solids can be sometimes affected by temperature and also the period for which it's exposed to a particular temperature.
> Particle size: More cohesive particles are usually found in bulk solids which are finer. Round particles are handled easily in comparison to odd, unsymmetrical shapes.
> Time at rest: Many times the flow of certain bulk solids is affected by the time for which it has been at rest or kept stagnant. The more it is kept at rest the more slow the bulk solid flows.