Your questions about DustCone hoppers

How does a DustCone hopper reduce dust?

Most dust at a loading point is made as bulk material falls freely from a chute and draws in air. A DustCone hopper hangs on springs around a fixed internal cone. The weight of the material draws the hopper down and opens a gap, entrained air is squeezed out, and the material leaves as a consolidated column instead of an aerated spray. Fines stay in the stream.

Does a DustCone hopper need power, filters or compressed air?

No. It is fully mechanical. There is no power supply, filter, compressed air or control system, and no consumables to replace.

How much maintenance does it need?

Very little. Beyond periodic inspection there is not much to do. The suspension springs are made to order with steel tab ends and are dip-coated, which keeps them off the maintenance schedule.

What materials is it suited to?

Free-flowing bulk materials such as grain, animal feed, fertiliser, soda ash, sulfur, minerals and wood pellets. The mechanism depends on material flowing freely through the gap, so cohesive, damp or very fine materials are assessed case by case. Send us the material and flow rate and we will tell you what it needs.

Can it be fitted to an existing plant?

Yes. The open-topped DC series sits under an existing chute as a retrofit. The FT series has a flanged top that bolts to the chute outlet. In most installations neither needs structural change to the plant.

What is the difference between the DC and FT series?

The DC series is open-topped, with inspection windows so operators can watch the fill level. The FT series has a flanged top that bolts to the chute outlet, and the spring-hung hopper rises outside its skirt.

What are DustCone hoppers made from?

They are built to order. Options are powder-coated mild carbon steel for general service, SS304 and SS316L where hygiene or corrosion matters, polyurea linings for corrosive products, and Hardox 450 or 500 wear plate for abrasive minerals.

How is the right size chosen?

DustCone sizes each unit from the flow rate, bulk density and particle size range, then matches it to a size class. The gap is set at commissioning with a mechanical adjuster. The discharge tracks the feed within the unit's design range, typically about 10 to 15% around the sized flow. A moderate change in duty can be taken up at the spring adjustment, and a large step change in feed needs a different size.

How quickly will I get a sizing recommendation?

We aim to come back with sizing within 2 business days of receiving your material, flow rate and bulk density. Rough figures are enough to start.

How much does a DustCone hopper cost?

Every hopper is built to order, so the price depends on the size, the material of construction and the options. Send us a few details about your loading point and we will come back with a quote.

Does it make my site compliant with dust regulations?

It reduces dust at the source and helps operators meet their duty to minimise dust, but it does not by itself guarantee compliance. That depends on your site, your material and your regulator. See our page on Australian clean air and workplace health rules.

Where are DustCone hoppers made?

DustCone Hopper Systems designs, engineers and manufactures its hoppers in Malaysia and supplies them worldwide.

Who is Dustwell?

Dustwell Pty Ltd is the Australian distributor of DustCone hoppers. We are your local contact for enquiries, supply and ongoing support, working Australia-wide from Victoria.