Various Applications of Bucket Elevators

Nearly every industry utilizes conveyors. Whether it's in the manufacture of pure pharmaceuticals or delicate candies, or more rugged industries such as mining or fertilizer, a bucket elevator conveyor is used from the first stages of production to the final packaging process.

Bucket Conveyors

Bucket conveyors are used to transport everything from dense materials such as coal to perishable items. Products are transported and discharged gently without damage or loss. Made of durable, sanitary stainless steel, these conveyors are designed for easy washdowns. Fully enclosed, equipped with tracking cams and safety devices, you can be assured both product and employees are safe during operation.

A bucket conveyor comes in a variety of configurations ranging from indexing units to single or multiple discharge units. Buckets are available in six standard sizes and may be composed of polycarbonate, polypropylene, metal impregnated polypropylene, and stainless steel.

Types and Their Applications

Bucket elevators are an energy- and space-efficient method to transport products in large and small quantities. Because of their varied uses, they come in a variety of types, designs, and styles. To determine which is right for your needs, take into consideration the product being transferred, its handling qualities, the maximum capacity per bucket, and the amount of lift required. The three main types of conveyor and bucket systems are:

Centrifugal Bucket Elevators

Centrifugal bucket elevators are the most common model used in many industries. They are primarily utilized to vertically convey powder bulk solids, such as grains, sugar, sand, minerals, etc. This version works by digging into materials at the boot section and employing high-speed centrifugal force to project materials into discharge throats. At slower speeds, this type of conveyor can adequately lift industrial materials that weigh up to 100 pounds per cubic foot.

Continuous Bucket Elevators

A continuous bucket elevator works at noticeably slower speeds than a centrifugal elevator. It is, however, designed in such a way to prevent damage and degradation of the product being handled and offers a smoother, softer, and more continuous discharge system. For this reason, this model is perfect for transporting lighter, or more fragile agglomerated material, such lime, cement, or dry chemicals.

Positive Discharge Elevators

Positive discharge elevators work similarly to centrifugal conveyors; however, they’re designed to allow their buckets to pivot. This design choice inverts each bucket and ensures complete discharge. These elevators are usually utilized to move products that may stick to other conveyor models—common materials include grains, nuts, dried fruits, etc.