The Ultimate Guide to Rotary Valves: Types, Functions & Applications What Is a Rotary Valve? A rotary valve (also called a rotary feeder or rotary airlock) is a critical component in powder, granule, and bulk material handling systems. It ensures precise discharge, metering, dust control, and pneumatic conveying in industries ranging from food processing to cement manufacturing. How Does a Rotary Valve Work? Rotary valves operate via a simple yet efficient mechanism: A motor-driven rotor with multiple vanes rotates inside a housing. Material from the hopper fills the vane chambers as they pass the inlet. The rotor turns, transporting material to the discharge point for controlled release. This process ensures consistent, uninterrupted material flow, making rotary valves ideal for gravimetric or volumetric feeding. […]