The Theory and Practice of Bulk Materials Handling

Roberts, Alan W.

The efficient and reliable handling of bulk solids is central to a vast range of industries, from mining and energy to pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food processing. Despite its industrial importance, bulk solids handling has too often been approached through trial-and-error, resulting in inefficiencies, operational disruptions, and avoidable structural failures. 

The Theory and Practice of Bulk Materials Handling addresses this gap with a structured, research-based framework for understanding the complex behaviours of granular and non-granular materials under various storage and flow conditions. Drawing on decades of research and industrial experience, this volume offers both the theoretical foundations and practical tools necessary for the design, analysis, and optimisation of bulk solids handling systems.

This authoritative text covers:

• Fundamental principles of bulk solid flow and stress distribution
• Measurement and interpretation of bulk material properties
• Analytical design of mass-flow and funnel-flow bins, silos, and stockpiles
• Evaluation of dynamic loading phenomena such as silo quaking and resonance
• Engineering of feeders and transfer chutes for efficient and controlled flow
• Case studies drawn from real-world industrial applications

Richly illustrated with design charts, test data, and example systems, The Theory and Practice of Bulk Materials Handling is an essential reference for engineers, plant designers, and researchers engaged in the study and implementation of solids handling technologies. It is also ideally suited as a core text for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate engineering courses in materials handling and bulk solids technology.

Details

Published by: Springer

Publication Date: 2026-04-21

Format: Hardcover

ISBN-13: 9783032197009

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-19702-3

Dimensions: 235cm x155cm

Pages: 447