Transmission for grain storage and agroindustry: elevators, conveyors, augers and their components

Bucket elevators work with combined radial and axial loads, dust and humidity. Y-bearings (inserts) are the standard option due to their ease of assembly and self-aligning capability. At MR we supply a wide range of insert bearings from brands such as DODGE, SKF and LINK-BELT, with references like INS-GT-09, UC 216 or ER27.

These bearings are manufactured with a spherical outer ring and an extended inner ring, which allows them to be fixed to the shaft with set screws or eccentric locking collar. Sealing is essential: in environments with grain dust, triple-lip seals or metal deflectors are recommended. For high-temperature applications, such as dryers, increased radial clearance (C3 suffix) is used.

When selecting a Y-bearing, check the shaft diameter, dynamic load and speed. A common mistake is using a set screw insert on shafts with vibration; in those cases, eccentric locking or adapter sleeve is better. If in doubt, send us the shaft size and application.

Y housings with insert bearing (also called pillow blocks) are ready-to-mount units that combine a cast iron or sheet steel housing with an insert bearing. In grain storage they are used on conveyor, auger and elevator shafts. MR works with DODGE, SEALMASTER and SKF housings, among others, with codes such as TB-GT-04, STMH-35 or P 72.

The advantage of these housings is that they absorb slight misalignments and simplify maintenance: the insert can be replaced without dismounting the housing. For highly contaminated applications, housings with cover and grease nipple are chosen. In screw conveyors, pillow blocks with ball bearings are common; in elevators, take-up housings.

When requesting a quote, indicate the housing series (e.g., P, STMH, TB) and shaft diameter. If you don't have the code, a photo of the part with a reference measurement is enough to identify the replacement.

Roller chains transmit power between shafts in augers, elevators and conveyors. In agroindustry, standard ANSI chains (such as 40, 50, 60, 80) and metric series are used. MR supplies SKF, TSUBAKI and EMMAR chains, with references like PHC 81X-O/L, RS60 or 12-C1.

For bucket elevators, long-pitch chains with attachments (bolted buckets) are used. In augers, short-pitch chains with hardened sprockets. Lubrication is critical: in dusty environments, manual lubrication with penetrating oil or automatic systems is recommended.

When selecting a chain, consider the breaking load, pitch and number of strands. A double chain (such as 40-2) doubles capacity but requires double sprockets. Check wear: if elongation exceeds 2% of pitch, replace chain and sprockets together.

Pulleys and V-belts are the most common transmission in belt conveyors, drying fans and pumps. MR supplies cast iron and sheet steel pulleys, and belts in sections A, B, C, D, among others. Example codes: PHP 6-B68TB (SKF pulley for B belt).

The advantage of V-belts is their low cost and ability to absorb vibrations. In grain storage, they are widely used in bucket elevators and extractors. Preventive maintenance includes checking tension (deflection of 10-15 mm) and pulley alignment with a straightedge or laser.

When requesting a quote, indicate the belt section, length (in inches or mm) and pulley diameter. If you don't know the section, measure the top width of the belt: 13 mm is A, 17 mm is B, 22 mm is C. We also offer synchronous belts for precision applications.

Synchronous belts (toothed) are used when exact synchronism between shafts is needed, such as in dosers, size classifiers and control systems. MR supplies synchronous belts of various profiles (HTD, T, AT) and pitches.

Unlike V-belts, synchronous belts do not slip and have higher efficiency (up to 98%). They are ideal for transmitting motion in precision equipment. In agroindustry, they are seen in selection conveyors and gate opening mechanisms.

When selecting, define the pitch (e.g., 8M, 14M), width and length (number of teeth). Check the manufacturer's recommended tension and the condition of the toothed pulleys. A worn pulley damages the belt prematurely.

Radial seals prevent the entry of dust, dirt and humidity into bearings and the leakage of lubricant. In grain storage, they are used on auger, conveyor and gearbox shafts. MR supplies seals in various sizes and materials (NBR, FKM, PTFE).

A poorly selected seal reduces bearing life. The key factors are shaft diameter, housing and peripheral speed. In highly abrasive environments, seals with auxiliary lip or flingers are used.

When requesting a quote, indicate the dimensions in millimeters (shaft x housing x width) or the seal code. If you don't have the size, measure the shaft and housing with a caliper. We can also help you choose the material according to the fluid and temperature.

At MR Accesorios Industriales, based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, we work with a wide range of Y-bearings, housings, chains, pulleys, belts and seals for grain storage and agroindustry. We supply recognized brands such as DODGE, SKF, LINK-BELT, SEALMASTER, TSUBAKI and EMMAR.

To request a quote, send us via WhatsApp or email the product code (e.g., UC 216 or RS60), the shaft size or a photo of the part. Our technical team will respond promptly with the right alternative for your application.

Do not hesitate to consult us about predictive maintenance or transmission improvements: correct component selection reduces unplanned downtime and operating costs in your grain storage plant.