A recent follow-up visit to our major client at Tangshan Steel Plant has confirmed the outstanding long-term performance and reliability of the
bucket elevator system we supplied and installed several years ago.Regular monitoring data shows that all key parameters—including chain tension, bearing temperature, and motor load remain within optimal ranges.
Here we provides a comprehensive guide to
bucket elevator maintenance, helping you establish an effective equipment management system.
I.Periodic Maintenance & Servicing (Weekly / Monthly)
This is the core of the maintenance plan and requires scheduled downtime.
Chains & Sprockets (The Drive Core):
Chain Inspection: Check for wear on pins and bushings. Measure chain elongation (typically, replacement is needed if elongation exceeds 2-3% of original length). Ensure chains run without twisting.
Sprocket Inspection: Check for uniform tooth wear and the presence of "hooking." Severely worn sprockets accelerate chain wear and should be replaced in matched sets.
Cleaning & Lubrication: Remove old grease and adhered material from chains. Reapply the specified high-temperature or wear-resistant grease. Caution: Over-lubrication attracts dust (creating an abrasive paste), while under-lubrication accelerates wear.
Bucket Inspection: Inspect each bucket for deformation, cracks, perforations (especially at welds). Severely worn buckets lose capacity, reducing throughput.
Fastener Check: Thoroughly inspect and tighten all bucket attachment bolts, guide rail bolts, and casing connection bolts. Bolts in vibrating environments are prone to loosening. Use correct torque and follow a cross-tightening sequence.
Head/Tail Pulleys & Bearings:
Inspect the wear and concentricity of the head (drive) and tail (take-up) pulleys.
Monitor and inspect the condition of all bearings. Open bearing housings if necessary to check for clean, adequate grease and the absence of contaminants.
Casing & Safety Devices:
Inspect the wear of internal wear liners (if installed) and replace them promptly.
Test all safety devices, including backstop/anti-reverse devices, belt/bucket misalignment switches, speed monitors (zero-speed switches), and blockage sensors. Ensure they are sensitive and functional.
Tensioning Device & Guides:
Clean the tensioner guide rails, ensuring counterweights or tension carriages move freely.
Check internal guide wear and alignment to prevent chain/bucket mis-tracking.
II. Annual Overhaul & Comprehensive Inspection
A complete teardown, inspection, and refurbishment should be performed annually or after a defined number of operating hours.
Complete Disassembly & Cleaning: Disassemble key components for thorough cleaning and wear-life assessment.
Precision Re-alignment: Recalibrate the levelness of head/tail shafts and the vertical alignment of the entire elevator casing.
Wear Parts Replacement: Systematically replace components that have reached or are near the end of their service life (e.g., complete chain/sprocket sets, severely worn buckets, bearings, seals). Avoid piecemeal "patch-up" repairs, which often lead to higher subsequent costs and downtime.
Corrosion Protection & Painting: Inspect the casing for internal/external corrosion. Perform rust removal and repainting, especially for outdoor sections.
Further information, please click:
www.pkmachinery.com 
