Silage Conveyor

The Problem

Silage conveyors are used by farmers to transfer feed from a silo to a feeding area. They are typically comprised of galvanized steel and constructed in ten foot increments. The conveyor uses rubber paddles to push the silage to the designated location and is driven by a large chain. The problem that arises is that the acidic silage eventually eats holes in the steel causing spillage. Furthermore, the seams in the steel create catch points which constantly jerk and pull on the chain, requiring that a link be removed approximately every three months.

The Solution

By installing a continuous piece of UHMW down the entire length of our test conveyor (70 feet), the catch points were completely eliminated, providing a much quieter and smoother operation of the conveyer and reducing the drag on the motor and chain.

On this particular conveyor, it took nearly two years before a link needed to be removed. Since UHMW is highly resistant to chemicals and moisture, the acidity of the silage has virtually no effect on the material. This provides longer conveyor life, less down time and better profitability for the farmer.