Bucket Elevators
ABM uses bucket elevators are to lift bulk dry ingredients within a small footprint. They consist of a series of buckets attached to a belt or chain, which runs over a pulley or sprocket at the top and bottom of the unit. The buckets scoop up material at the bottom and then lift it to a higher point, where the ingredient is discharged.
When to use
Bucket elevators are commonly used in a variety of industries including agriculture, beer & spirits, and food manufacturing. They are particularly useful for handling large volumes of bulk material, such as grains, and fertilizers where bulk goods can be driven up to a silo and just need to be lifted. Because corrugated silos can't handle pressure from pneumatics, we commonly fit them with bucket elevators. We also commonly use them when many parts of a process rely on gravity for product flow and we need the product to gain elevation quickly with little footprint.
When not to use
We can't use bucket elevators for handling materials that are particularly abrasive, corrosive, or sticky, as these materials can cause work their way into the gears and crevices, causing spoilage issues or damage to components over time. Additionally, though not common, some products are too delicate even for bucket elevators.
ABM uses bucket elevators are to lift bulk dry ingredients within a small footprint. They consist of a series of buckets attached to a belt or chain, which runs over a pulley or sprocket at the top and bottom of the unit. The buckets scoop up material at the bottom and then lift it to a higher point, where the ingredient is discharged.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintaining bucket elevators, there are a few key things to keep in mind. One important aspect of maintenance is keeping the equipment clean. This includes cleaning the buckets, belt or chain, and other components from time to time to prevent buildup of materials that can cause damage or reduce efficiency. Additionally, it is important to check chains, belts, or pulleys occasionally for wear and tear, lubricating any open bearings and replacing items showing significant wear. This inspection doesn't have to be frequent, just regular. Like most equipment, we offer service contracts you can set and forget about, and we'll coordinate maintenance visits with your staff on a set schedule.
Overall, bucket elevators remain a useful and versatile material handling option for some scenarios, but tubular drag systems have begun to replace them in several applications that bucket elevators used to dominate. To find out what is best for your process give us a call or fill out the form below. We provide design, sales, integration, and 24/7 service for most types of bulk handling equipment.
