Scraper Conveyor
Scraper conveyors, as a mature and reliable conveying equipment, have become the preferred choice for many enterprises due to their simple structure, good sealing performance, long conveying distance, and convenient maintenance. They are widely used in the production processes of modern feed, grain, cement, chemical, and other industries.
Whether it’s the TGSS series flat conveyor scraper types or the TGSU series U-shaped conveyor scraper types, they can meet your different conveying needs. Below, I will comprehensively introduce the working principle, types, core components, technical advantages, and selection points of conveyors to help you gain a deeper understanding of this crucial equipment.
RICHI MACHINERY
What is a Scraper Conveyor?
A scraper conveyor, also known as a buried conveyor scrapers, is a conveying device that continuously transports bulk materials within a closed rectangular or U-shaped casing (rectangular ones are called flat conveyor scraper types, and U-shaped ones are called U-shaped conveyor scraper types).
It primarily utilizes a moving chain with attached scrapers to transport materials, with conveying lengths reaching up to 30 meters. It uses a motor to drive the chain, and the scrapers fixed to the chain push the material forward along the bottom of the casing, thus achieving horizontal or slightly inclined material transport.
Working Principle
A drag chain conveyor consists of a head and a tail section. The head section houses the driving device, including a motor and a reducer, which drives the chain through gears. Scrapers are fixed to the chain at regular intervals. When the chain moves, the scrapers push the material forward within the casing. The material is buried between the scrapers and the bottom of the casing, hence the name “buried conveyor scrapers.” After reaching the tail section, the chain reverses direction, completing a cycle.
Scraper conveyors are particularly suitable for the following applications:
Feed mills
Grain storage
Cement plants
Chemical plants
Power plants
● RICHI MACHINERY
Main Types of Scraper Conveyor
Choosing the right type of drag chain conveyor directly impacts your production efficiency and operating costs. We have developed two main series based on material characteristics: the TGSS series specializes in long-distance conveying of granular materials, with a single machine capable of reaching up to 30 meters; the TGSU series is mainly used for conveying powdered materials, employing a U-shaped structure design that significantly reduces material residue and makes cleaning easier. Choosing the right type is half the battle; below is a detailed introduction to the parameters of these two types of conveyors:
● TGSS Series
TGSS Series Flat Type
Very suitable for long-distance horizontal conveying of granular materials, this is our best-selling model. The casing has a rectangular cross-section structure, offering high space utilization, and can convey materials up to 30 meters.
| Model | TGSS16 | TGSS20 | TGSS25 | TGSS32 | TGSS40 |
| Output (m³/h) | 20~30 | 50~60 | 80~90 | 120~140 | 180~210 |
| Distance of scraper chain link (mm) | 66.75 | 66.75 | 66.75 | 66.75 | 125 |
● TGSU Series
TGSU Series U-Type
Mainly used for conveying powdered materials, but can also convey granular materials. The U-shaped casing structure ensures closer contact between the scraper and the bottom of the trough, resulting in extremely low material residue.
| Model | TGSU16 | TGSU20 | TGSU25 | TGSU32 | TGSU40 |
| Output (m³/h) | 15~20 | 40~50 | 70~80 | 100~120 | 160~180 |
| Distance of scraper chain link (mm) | 66.75 | 66.75 | 66.75 | 66.75 | 80 |
| Power (kw) | Calculated according to length and conveying output | ||||
Other Specialized Series of Scraper Conveyor
— Richi Machinery —
In addition to the two general-purpose series, TGSS and TGSU, RICHI Machinery has also developed a variety of specialized models based on the specific working conditions of different industries.
- Cement-specific type: Designed specifically for the cement industry, with high wear resistance and strong sealing performance.
- General-purpose type: Suitable for most powdery and granular materials.
- Airtight type: Higher sealing performance, suitable for applications requiring dust prevention.
- High-temperature type: Can convey high-temperature materials (such as materials just out of the dryer).
- Large-angle type: Can achieve conveying at an angle of 15-30 degrees.
- Power plant specific type: Suitable for coal powder and ash conveying in power plants.
- Grain-specific type: Designed specifically for the grain industry, meeting food safety requirements.
Core Components of a Scraper Conveyor
The quality and performance of a conveyor scrapers mainly depend on the following core components:
Head Section
The head section is the power source of the drag chain conveyor, including the motor, reducer, and drive wheel. High-quality motors use top-tier brands. The drive wheel is made of 45# steel, heat-treated by quenching, resulting in high surface hardness.
Chain
The high-quality chain is made of 45# steel, with a chain plate thickness of ≥3.0mm, strong breaking strength, and capable of withstanding heavy loads and long-term operation.
Intermediate Casing
The casing is the channel for material transportation, and its thickness and material directly affect the strength of the equipment. The TGSS series uses a rectangular cross-section for high space utilization; the TGSU series uses a U-shaped cross-section, resulting in extremely low material residue.
Tail Section
The tail section is equipped with a chain tensioning device, which allows for easy adjustment of chain tension, compensating for chain elongation during use and extending the chain’s service life.
Advantages and Features of Scraper Conveyor
Simple Structure and Easy Maintenance
- The equipment mainly consists of a casing, chain, scrapers, and a transmission device, with a simple structure. Daily maintenance only requires checking the chain, lubrication, and replacing worn scrapers. Ordinary workers can operate the equipment after simple training.
Good Sealing and Environmentally Friendly
- The fully enclosed design prevents material leakage during transportation, effectively preventing dust and making it particularly suitable for industries with high environmental requirements, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Airtight scraper conveyors offer even better sealing performance.
Long Conveying Distance and High Output
- A single unit can convey materials up to 30 meters. For longer distances, multiple units can be connected in series. The output ranges from tens of cubic meters to over two hundred cubic meters per hour, meeting the needs of enterprises of different scales.
Strong Adaptability and Wide Application
- It can convey powdery, granular, and small lump materials, at temperatures ranging from ambient to high temperatures, and at inclines up to 30 degrees. It is suitable for almost all bulk material handling applications.
Smooth Operation and Long Service Life
- High-quality chains, scrapers, and precision-machined head and tail pulleys ensure smooth operation and low noise. Wear-resistant components have a long service life, typically lasting more than 10 years under normal use, providing economical and reliable long-term operation.
Simple Structure and Easy Maintenance
Good Sealing and Environmentally Friendly
Long Conveying Distance and High Output
Strong Adaptability and Wide Application
Smooth Operation and Long Service Life
Scraper Conveyor for Sale Worldwide
— Richi Machinery —
For over 30 years, RICHI has focused on the research, development, and manufacturing of chain scraper conveyors. Our products have been successfully sold to more than 140 countries and regions worldwide. We understand that different regions and industries have varying needs for conveying equipment, therefore we provide one-stop solutions ranging from equipment selection and customized design to installation and commissioning.
Russia 5T/H Fish Feed Plant TGSS40 Scraper Conveying System Project
Customer Background: This customer is one of the largest fish feed producers in the region, with an annual output of 150,000 tons of feed.
Date: September 2023
Conveying Distance: 30 meters (maximum conveying distance for a single unit)
Conveyed Material: Feed pellets
Capacity: 180-210 cubic meters/hour
South Africa Mineral Powder Processing Plant TGSS32 Conveyor Project
Date: March 2024
Conveying Distance: 22 meters
Conveyed Material: Limestone powder, mineral powder
Capacity: 120-140 cubic meters/hour
Client Feedback: “This rectangular conveyor has a simple structure and stable operation, and can work continuously even in dusty conditions.”
USA 15T/H Animal Feed Pellet Production Line TGSS32 Scraper Conveying System
Date: January 2025
Conveying Distance: 5 meters
Conveyed Material: Wheat, barley, rapeseed
Capacity: 120-140 cubic meters/hour
Customer Feedback: “The equipment runs very stably, and the automatic protection functions are very practical, making our operations safer.”
Frequently asked questions
Could you briefly explain the application advantages of the TGSS and TGSU scraper conveyors?
Certainly. Both devices have their own advantages. If you would like to customize a drag conveyor to meet your specific needs, please contact us for the best solution and equipment quotation!
TGSS Series Application Advantages:
- Suitable for multi-point feeding and multi-point discharge
- Equipped with heavy-duty starting device
- Equipped with anti-clogging and chain break alarm devices
- Guide rails use special wear-resistant materials or are lined with high-molecular wear-resistant plates
- Scrapers are made of polyurethane material, wear-resistant and low noise
- Uses patented high-strength chain for long conveying distances
- Chain tensioning device is installed at the tail of the machine for easy operation
TGSU Series Application Advantages:
- U-shaped scraper blades fit tightly to the bottom of the trough, resulting in low residue
- The tail of the machine adopts a spherical stamping structure, resulting in even less residue
- Simple structure, small size, and low power consumption
- Good sealing, stable operation, and low noise
- Long service life, easy installation and maintenance
- Uses high-strength scraper chain
- The feeding port can use direct feeding or bypass feeding
- Can be configured with anti-clogging alarm device
How to judge the quality of a Scraper Conveyor chain?
Just like checking the chain when buying a bicycle, the chain of a drag chain conveyor is crucial. Checking three things is enough:
- Is the chain plate thick enough? Feel its weight – is it heavy? Ask if it’s made of 45# steel (this is a good steel), and if the thickness is 3 millimeters. Too thin chain plates are like thin sheet metal and break easily.
- Can it bear the load? Ask the supplier, “How much weight can this chain pull?” A good chain won’t break even under heavy loads and prolonged use.
- Is the movement smooth? The gaps in the chain connections (pins and bushings) should be just right. Too loose and it will wobble; too tight and it will seize up when dust gets in.
In short, cheap products often use inferior steel and are made thinly. You won’t notice it when you first buy it, but after a year or two, the chain will constantly break, and by then it will be too late to regret it.
What are the differences between the scraper materials? Which one should I choose?
The scraper is the plate that scrapes material in the trough, and it directly contacts the material, so the material is very important. There are four main types on the market:
- Ordinary plastic (HDPE) – Like a plastic basin, it’s the cheapest, but not very wear-resistant.
- Nylon – Stronger than ordinary plastic, and a bit more expensive, durable like nylon rope.
- Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) – This is what we use. Although it’s also plastic, it’s extremely wear-resistant (10 times more wear-resistant than ordinary plastic), and very smooth and non-stick. It offers the best value for money. 👍
- Polyurethane – The most wear-resistant, but also the most expensive. Unless there are special circumstances, it’s generally not necessary.
Our recommendation is to choose ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). It’s not only wear-resistant and energy-efficient (because it’s smooth), but also non-stick and easy to clean. If you are in the food or feed industry, this material also meets food safety standards, so you can use it with confidence.
Should I buy equipment that is exceptionally cheap?
We do not recommend it. RICHI is a professional equipment manufacturer, and based on our understanding of the market, our prices offer excellent value for money and are factory direct prices. Furthermore, cheap equipment usually cuts corners in these areas:
- The conveyor chain plates are made of ordinary steel and are not thick enough.
- The scraper blades are made of cheap plastic.
- The casing steel plates are thin.
- The motors and gearboxes are from unknown brands.
- There is no after-sales service.
While it may seem like you’re saving money initially, in reality, it leads to high failure rates, high repair costs, and a short service life. In the long run, it ends up being more expensive. We have served many customers who initially bought inferior equipment to save money, only to experience numerous problems after a year or two, and ultimately had to replace it with high-quality equipment, wasting both time and money.
Why Choose RICHI Machinery?
With over 30 years of industry experience, our scraper conveyors have been exported to more than 140 countries and regions, serving a wide range of materials and working conditions. Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing pellet line or plan to build a new conveying system, we can provide guidance and suggestions based on your specific needs to help you find the most suitable solution. If you are interested in learning more, please feel much welcome to contact us.
Efficient and comprehensive after – sales service:
RICHI Machinery has a comprehensive and well – established after – sales service system. It has multiple overseas logistics routes to ensure that machine arrives safely and on time. Later on, if there’s any abnormality with the customer’s machine, we’ll provide after – sales staff to offer preliminary solutions right away. And within 48 hours, we’ll send professional technicians to the site for service, minimizing the customer’s downtime.
Scientific customized services:
We have a diverse and rich product system. With over 200 products, we can meet the needs of various customers. The company is equipped with a professional R&D and design team. According to your actual situation, whether it is a small factory or a large industrial factory, we will design personalized solutions for you based on the actual situation.
Excellent equipment quality:
RICHI Machinery has won many international authoritative certifications. The company has passed BV certification, ISO9001 International Quality Management System Certification, European CE Certification, and Swiss SGS Certification, among others. You can find us on YouTube.
