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IDM Bucket Elevators

Grain Elevators

Bucket Elevator Systems. Made to Last.

IDM bucket elevator systems are made to last.

From their rugged design to their fully welded construction and durable hot-dipped galvanized (HDG) finish, IDM bucket elevators withstand the test of time and the elements for commercial and farm-based operations.

System capacity options range from 2,500 to 15,000 bushels per hour.

Contact us today to learn more or to get a custom quote.

Standard Parts, Features, & Options

Our bucket grain elevators are designed for the swift, vertical transfer of grain, forming the backbone of your storage and processing workflow. Built with heavy-duty components for enduring reliability, they ensure maximum throughput and operational efficiency while requiring minimal maintenance and downtime.

Head System

  • Fully welded 3/16” main body frame with oversized discharge transition
  • Fully welded 10-gauge hood with several liner options available for extended life
  • Hood chimney for bees-wings exhaust fan or pressure vent options available
  • Lagging access door for ease of service on drive pulley
  • Dual discharge access door for access to knife plate and transition

Motor Mount

  • Straddle-based motor mount for motors up to 75 horsepower
  • Compact power transmission location saves on precious workspace in tower support systems

Boot Section

  • Fully welded 3/16” & 1/4” standard frame
  • Acme rod long-range bearing slides for ease of operation over years of service
  • Dual wide body inlet hoppers (standard on all models)
  • Top access covers with optional side access doors
  • Boot standoff toes (standard on all models)

Inspection Section

  • Upside access inspection section with inspection door
  • Fully welded

Trunk

  • 12-gauge or 10-gauge standard material (depending on the model size)
  • Laser cut / CNC bent / jig assembled / robotically welded
  • Laser cut angle brackets for precision alignment

Finish/Coating

  • All systems are fully welded and then hot-dipped galvanized for superior finish quality
  • Hot-dipped galvanized finish provides 30+ years of rust-free operation which is unmatched by other commercially available finishes in the industry

Mechanical

Belt & Cups

  • Rubber belting (static-conductive, oil and fire resistant) (standard on all models)
  • Polyethylene vented cups (standard on all models)

Pulleys

  • Crowned head pulleys with slide lagging (standard on all models)
  • Winged tail pulleys (standard on all models)

Bearings

  • Double spherical pillow block bearings are standard on all models for years of reliable service even under demanding applications

Bearings

  • Dodge (shaft-mounted)
  • Nord (direct drive)
  • Vortex (shaft-mounted)
Grain Elevators

Product Coating: Hot-Dipped Galvanizing (HDG)

At IDM, we are not just here for the short-term sale. We care about the long-term reliability of our products. Our bucket elevators and structural components (towers, catwalks, load-outs) are only offered with hot-dipped galvanized (HDG) coating because of the long-term benefits of HDG coating as compared to other product finishes. When it comes to choosing the best protection for your bucket elevator components, the hot-dipped galvanized finish offers unparalleled durability and long-term value. While it may come at a slightly higher initial cost than traditional sheet metal galvanized finishes, the benefits far outweigh the investment. Furthermore, IDM does not weld on post-finished galvanized products commonly seen with other manufacturers’ products.

Continue reading below for some of the pros and cons of the coatings and finishes commonly used in the industry.

The industry offers three standard product finishes. While many competitors may cut corners on product finish to stay competitive, IDM remains committed to uncompromising quality. We believe that HDG coating is the best choice for long-lasting durability and performance of your bucket elevator. This process offers superior corrosion resistance and structural integrity, making it an ideal solution for industries and customers that require reliable, high-performance equipment.

Below is an overview of the three standard finishes.

Compare Our Three Finishes

As you can see, HDG coating offers superior protection, durability, and cost-effectiveness in the long run, while sheet metal galvanized finishes and painted finishes present potential issues with maintenance, corrosion, and overall lifespan. HDG coating is the choice for long-term reliability and savings.

Hot-Dipped Galvanized (HDG) Coating:

  • Superior Corrosion Protection: Provides a thick, durable zinc coating that fully covers all components, including welds, for long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.
  • Extended Lifespan: The hot-dipped process ensures durability in harsh conditions, reducing the need for replacements and repairs.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Every part, including hard-to-reach internal areas, is fully coated for complete protection.
  • Long-Term Durability: While the initial cost is higher, it saves money over time by reducing maintenance and replacement needs.
  • Slight Cosmetic Imperfections: Minor cosmetic imperfections from the hot-dipping process do not impact performance or structural integrity.
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Sheet Metal Galvanized Finish:

  • Limited Protection: Welding burns off the galvanized coating, and while zinc-rich paint is applied, it does not offer the same protection as hot-dipped galvanizing. This can lead to rust over time.
  • Higher Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance is required for weld areas, including touch-ups with zinc-rich paint.
  • Weaker Connections: Bolted or riveted joints are more vulnerable to corrosion compared to welded seams.
  • Inconsistent Durability: The overall protection is less uniform, leading to earlier wear and corrosion.
  • Risk of Hidden Corrosion: Mechanical fasteners can trap moisture and dust, accelerating corrosion.
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Painted Finish:

  • Shorter Lifespan: Paint degrades more quickly than galvanized coatings, requiring frequent touch-ups and repaints.
  • Risk of Corrosion: Exposed metal can rust if the paint chips or wears off.
  • Frequent Maintenance: Repainting leads to increased labor and downtime.
  • Limited Durability: Paint is less durable in harsh conditions, leading to premature damage.
  • Aesthetic Decline: The painted finish can fade or peel, impacting the appearance of the equipment.
  • Lower Long-Term Value: The lower upfront cost is offset by higher maintenance and shorter lifespan compared to galvanized finishes.
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