The screw conveyor is one of the oldest methods of conveying materials known to mankind with the original design dating back to more than two thousand years. Today, modern technology has made the screw conveyor one of the most efficient and economical methods of moving bulk material. A tubular screw conveyor is a type of screw conveyor that transports bulk materials inside a completely enclosed, cylindrical tube. It’s ideal for applications where dust control, sanitation, or contamination prevention is critical.

 Basic Design

• Casing: A round tube made from steel, stainless steel, or plastic (in sanitary systems).
• Screw (Flighting): A helical blade that rotates within the tube to move material.
•  Drive Unit: Typically mounted at the discharge or inlet end.
•  End Bearings and Seals: Keep the screw shaft aligned and prevent material leakage.
• Inlets & Outlets: For feeding and discharging material.

Applications

• Tubular screw conveyors are widely used in: Soap and Detergent Industry: Soap bits, soap noodles, frisis
• Food industry: flour, sugar, spices
• Chemical processing: powders, granules
• Plastics industry: resin pellets, additives
•  Cement and construction: dry cement, fly ash
• Agriculture: grain, seed, feed

Key Features

Feature	Benefit
Fully enclosed	Prevents dust, protects product from contamination
Pressure tight options	Suitable for pneumatic feeding or vacuum systems
Compact design	Good for tight spaces
Customizable	Length, diameter, pitch, and material can be tailored

 Tubular vs U-Trough Screw Conveyors

 

Criteria	Tubular	U-Trough
Enclosure	Fully enclosed	Partially open (with optional cover)
Dust Control	Excellent	Moderate
Cleanability	Higher with CIP (Clean-in-Place)	Easier access but less sanitary
Inclination Suitability	Better for steeper angles	Limited to lower inclines
Cost	Higher	Lower
Inspection & Maintenance	More difficult	Easier