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Bucket Elevator Chains

In several industries the need for a continuous, vertical transport of bulk materials, from powder to coarse-grained, from free flowing to cohesive consistence, can be satisfied by various types of bucket elevators engineered and manufactured by International Chain Company

We produce a wide range of bucket elevators, single-chain and double-chain type or with central-chain, including both slow-speed bucket elevators with central discharge suitable for large-sized materials (lump up to 300 mm or even more), medium-speed bucket elevators generally used for medium-sized materials (40-80 mm lump) and fast-speed bucket elevators with peripheral discharge suitable for heavy-duty and materials with particular characteristics (high temperature, abrasiveness etc.).

A bucket elevator is a mechanical device used to transport bulk materials vertically. It consists of a series of buckets attached to a belt or chain, which moves through an upright frame.

Key Components
Buckets
  • Material: Common materials include plastic, metal (steel or stainless steel)
  • Types: Available in various shapes and sizes, depending on the application (e.g., standard, deep, or tapered).
Chain or Belt
  • Chains: Typically made from steel for heavy-duty applications, with different designs to accommodate various loads and speeds.
  • Belts: Often used for lighter materials; can be rubber or plastic, providing flexibility and resistance to wear.
Drive Mechanism
  • Usually includes a motor that drives the chain or belt through a system of pulleys or sprockets.
Hoppers
  • Located at the bottom for loading material into the buckets.
Discharge Chute
  • Guides material away from the elevator at the top.
Bucket Elevator Components
Buckets
  • Steel: Offers high strength and durability, suitable for heavy loads
  • Design
  • Shapes: Common shapes include standard (U-shaped), deep (for powders), and tapered (to reduce spillage).
  • Sizes: Varies from a few litres to several hundred litres in capacity, depending on the application.
Chains
  • Types
  • Roller Chains: Common in heavy-duty applications, consisting of links and rollers that engage with sprockets.
  • Drag Chains: Used for lighter applications, with buckets directly attached to the chain.
  • Specifications
  • Pitch: The distance between adjacent chain pins, typically between 1 inch and 4 inches.
  • Working Load Limit (WLL): Defined by the material strength and design; critical for determining operational capacity.
Frame and Supports
  • Steel: Most common for its strength and rigidity.
  • Galvanized Steel: Offers corrosion resistance for outdoor or humid environments.
  • Design
  • Vertical or slightly inclined configurations to maximize space.
  • Often modular to allow for adjustments in height and configuration.
Drive Mechanism
  • Sprockets: Engagement with the chain or belt to facilitate movement; should be designed to minimize wear and noise.
Performance Factors
Capacity
  • Flow Rate: Determined by bucket size, speed of the chain/belt, and spacing between buckets. Commonly measured in tons per hour (TPH).
  • Vertical Lift: Affects the overall efficiency; higher lifts may require more powerful motors.
Speed
  • Bucket Speed: Typically ranges from 0.5 m/s to 2.5 m/s, depending on the material and design. Higher speeds can lead to spillage and increased wear.
Material Properties
  • Bulk Density: Influences how many buckets are needed and how much weight they can carry.
  • Flowability: Affects how easily materials can move through the system, impacting design choices for bucket shape and spacing.
Operational Considerations
Installation
  • Proper alignment is critical to prevent wear and mechanical failure.
  • Foundation stability must support the elevator's weight and dynamic forces during operation.
Maintenance
  • Regular Inspections: Check for wear on buckets, chains, and sprockets.
  • Lubrication: Essential for reducing friction, especially in chain drive systems.
  • Tensioning: Regular adjustments to maintain proper tension in chains or belts.
Safety Features
  • Emergency Stops: Must be installed for immediate shutdown in case of malfunction.
  • Overload Protection: Mechanisms to prevent damage due to excessive load.
Environmental Considerations
  • Dust Control: Enclosures or dust suppression systems may be required for handling powders.
  • Temperature Management: Consider thermal expansion and material degradation in high-temperature applications.
Why Choose Us

Types of Bucket Elevator Chains

Understanding the various types of bucket elevator chains, their design characteristics, materials, and operational metrics is essential for selecting the right system for specific applications. Careful consideration of performance factors and maintenance practices will ensure reliability and efficiency in bulk material handling operations.

  • Roller Chains
  • Drag Chains
  • Heavy-Duty Chains
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