How to Choose the Right Screw Type for a Loss-in-Weight Feeder

Selecting the right screw type is one of the most important steps when configuring a loss-in-weight feeder. The screw determines how material flows, how stable the feeding rate is, and how accurately the system can dose powders, granules, or pellets. If the screw type does not match the material characteristics, issues such as clogging, pulsation, bridging, or inconsistent flow will occur. Below, we explain how to choose the correct screw type in a simple and practical way.

1. Understand Your Material First

Before choosing a screw type, always start with the material. Different materials behave differently inside a feeder.

Key characteristics you must evaluate:

• Flowability (free-flowing or poor-flowing)
• Particle size (fine powder, granules, flakes)
• Bulk density (light or heavy)
• Cohesiveness (tendency to clump)
• Moisture content

2. Single-Screw vs. Twin-Screw — Which One Should You Choose?

Single-Screw Loss-in-Weight Feeder

Best for:

• Free-flowing powders
• Granules
• Pellets

Advantages:

• Simple structure
• Smooth, steady feeding
• Easier maintenance

When to choose:

• When the material does not stick or bridge
• When high feeding speed is required

Twin Screw Loss-in-weight Feeder

Best for:

• Poor-flowing powders
• Sticky, cohesive materials
• Fibrous or fluffy materials

Why it works better:

• Two screws intermesh or rotate side by side
• Better self-cleaning ability
• Reduces the risk of material buildup

Choose twin-screw if your material tends to:

• Bridge
• Form clumps
• Have inconsistent density

3. Consider Feeding Speed and Accuracy

Different screws deliver different levels of accuracy:

• Small-diameter screws → Fine feeding, low throughput, high precision
• Large-diameter screws → Higher capacity but slightly lower precision

If your process requires:

• High accuracy (e.g., additives, chemicals) → Choose small, precise screws.
• High throughput (e.g., plastic extrusion) → Choose larger screws with higher feed volume.

4. Test Before Final Selection

Because materials behave differently in real situations, on-site testing is essential. Jiangsu Awesome offer:

• Screw performance trials
• Feeding accuracy tests
• Flowability evaluations

This ensures you choose a screw that perfectly matches your material and production needs.

Choosing the right screw for a loss-in-weight feeder is not complicated when you understand your material and know how different screws work. The ideal screw should: Match your material’s flow characteristics, provide stable and consistent feeding, prevent blockages and minimize pulsation and deliver the required accuracy and speed.