Proper Lifting Techniques for Shaftless Spirals

Question

I have 5 KWS shaftless screw conveyors that have been in service for over 10 years now. The shaftless spiral on one of the conveyors is worn on the outside diameter so I bought a replacement spiral from you. How do I properly lift the spiral and place it in the trough without damaging it?

Answer

Thank you for purchasing shaftless screw conveyors from KWS! Most KWS shaftless screw conveyors operate with little or no maintenance for at least 10 years. You have gotten good productive life out of the conveyors, so far.

KWS shaftless spirals are manufactured to very close tolerances for Outside Diameter (OD), Pitch and Straightness. Every spiral assembly is manufactured in a special jig designed to hold exact tolerances.

The replacement spiral must be lifted properly to prevent bending or “kinking” it. Please refer to the photo below. Simply slide a piece of pipe slightly smaller in diameter into the spiral. Then, lift the spiral using a spreader bar and lifting straps or chains. The spiral must be lifted parallel to the ground for best results.

The spiral can then be placed in the screw conveyor trough and fastened to the drive shaft. KWS recommends replacing all trough liners when replacing shaftless spirals. The KWS shaftless screw conveyor is now “good as new” with a new spiral and liners. You should easily get another 10 years of uninterrupted service from your KWS shaftless screw conveyors.

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