Bucket elevators provide a means for increased efficiency and productivity in many processing and manufacturing industries. From the handling of food to chemicals, the large capacity they are capable of moving allows for a consistent flow of material from one point to another. With various styles and sizes available, their flexibility and modification capabilities ensure their use in many areas. Bucket elevators are rather straightforward in function and offer many benefits for a company, yet there are key aspects to consider when selecting the right one for its particular use.
Also known as a grain leg, this piece of machinery has been utilized in some form for hundreds of years. While it once consisted of a simple flat chain and a series of small scale steel containers, its technology and construction have advanced over the years. As a result, designs have been created to meet the needs of the vast number of industries employing the equipment.
A popular style of bucket elevators is one that provides vertical material transport. The pails are usually plastic, stainless steel, or nylon and triangular in shape. Placed in close proximity to each other on the chain pulley or rubber belt, the containers gather material from a pile or bin when dragged along the surface. They are then moved upward to unload at the top where the material is then moved on to a chute to be further processed. The empty pails are returned to the bottom for reloading. The pulleys at each end are electrically powered, and the containers are designed to rotate in order to minimize loss of materials. This type of equipment is useful in moving large, heavy loads at a slow and steady speed.
One of the most common types is those that are driven by centrifugal force. It is able to move material at a slant or vertically, depending on the need of the facility. Its speed is minimal when moved at an incline while the vertical set-up moves and discharges at a rather rapid pace due to the centrifugal force powering it. In addition, there are models available for extra large material volumes, continuous flow, and positive discharge. The rate of material movement is dependent upon the container's size and shape, volume, and pace of the machinery. Depending on the material to be lifted, there may be a necessity for ventilation, adjustable speeds, covers to keep out debris or anti-static pails. More advanced designs have programming capabilities allowing the bucket elevators to be personalized to maximize productivity.
This type of equipment can be beneficial to numerous industries that move a variety of substances. Wastewater treatment, wood product manufacturing, food processing, and the handling of minerals, pharmaceuticals and chemicals are just some of the settings this machinery can be found. From wet to dry and light to heavy, a wide range of materials can be raised for additional processing.
There are many advantages to employing bucket elevators in a processing system. Aside from their large capacity, they have the ability to elevate materials inside and out to high levels, which is helpful in a multi-story building. They move the material to its needed location in a timely and sanitary fashion with minimal need for manpower. This can be cost-effective during hard economic times. In addition, this equipment is dependable, requires little maintenance, and withstands many years of continuous use.
Prior to investing in such a system it is important to do proper research in order to determine the most effective model for current and forecasted processing needs.