How to distinguish between left-hand and right-hand of the screw flight? 3 methods to teach you how to identify the direction at a glance

How to distinguish between left-hand and right-hand of the screw flight? 3 methods to teach you how to identify the direction at a glance

In the selection, installation and maintenance of screw conveyors, the determination of the rotation direction (left-handed / right-handed) of the screw flights is of vital importance. Incorrect rotation direction can result in the inability of the materials to be conveyed normally and even damage to the equipment. As a supplier of screw conveyors, we, in accordance with industry standard practices, provide you with a clear identification method.

 1.why is it necessary to distinguish between the left-handed and right-handed configurations of the screw flights?

The spiral flights of the screw conveyor are divided into Right-hand  flight and  Left-hand flight.

The types of screw conveyors include horizontal fixed screw conveyors and vertical screw conveyors. The horizontal fixed screw conveyor is the most commonly used type. The vertical screw conveyor is used for short-distance material lifting. The screw flights of the vertical type are of solid surface shape, and it must have a horizontal feeding screw to ensure the necessary feeding pressure.

The rotation direction determines the movement direction of the material during the conveying process. Generally, the rotation direction of the driving device must match the rotation direction of the screw flights in order to achieve forward feeding.

2.Methods for Differentiating Left-hand flight and Right-hand flight

Method 1: Palm Simulation Method (This is the most practical method)

1.Extend your right hand, with your four fingers together and your thumb naturally spread.

2.Position your right palm facing yourself, with your four fingers bent in the direction that simulates the rotation of the screw flights.

3.If the direction your four fingers are bent is consistent with the actual rotation direction of the flights， and your thumb points in the forward direction of the spiral axis (the direction of material transportation)， then it is right-handed.

4.Repeat the above steps with your left hand. If it is consistent with the left-handed rotation， then it is left-handed.

Method 2: Physical Observation Method (Placed Horizontally)

Raise the spiral shaft horizontally and stand beside it. Observe the edge of the flight on the side close to yourself.

1.If the leaf gradually tilts upwards from the left to the right (like a right-tilted staircase), it is right-handed.

2.If the leaf gradually tilts upwards from the right to the left (like a left-tilted staircase), it is left-handed.

Method 3: End-face judgment method (placed vertically)

For vertical spiral conveyors (with a lifting height usually no more than 8 meters), one can stand at the top (the feeding end) of the spiral shaft and look down:

• When the screw flights rotate upwards in a counterclockwise direction → Left rotation
• When the screw flights rotate upwards in a clockwise direction → Right rotation

Our different types of screw flights:https://www.bhconveyor.com/products/screw-conveyor-components/

Our different types of screw conveyors:https://www.bhconveyor.com/products/screw-conveyor/

About Us:

We have been deeply involved in the field of material conveying equipment and its accessories for 26 years. Our services include:

Free initial assessment

24-hour consultation service

Product customization