On the Characteristics of a Table Feeder

Abstract

The static and dynamic characteristics of a table feeder were studied. As the results, it was found that the static characteristics could be estimated with good accuracy if the shape of the powder bed was taken into consideration, and that the scraper should be inserted along the tangent of a concentric circle on the table to get a constant feed rate of high stability. On the other hand, experimental study on the step response of the table feeder following the step change in the position of the scraper revealed two types of responses according to the kind of powder materials, one was the derivative type and the other proportional. These responses were also analyzed.