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Views: 222 Author: Ella Publish Time: 2025-03-26 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Introduction to Drive Over Grain Augers
>> Benefits of Drive Over Grain Augers
● Maintenance Tips for Drive Over Grain Augers
>>> Example Inspection Checklist:
>> 2. Cleaning
>> 4. Drive System Maintenance
>> 5. Storage
● Design and Construction Considerations for Drive Over Grain Augers
>> 5. Brass Bushing in the Hopper
● Advanced Maintenance Techniques
● Extended Safety Best Practices
>> Establishing a Safe Work Zone
● Expanded Maintenance and Safety Considerations
>> Regular Maintenance Scheduling
>> Seasonal Preparation Checklist
● FAQ
>> 1. What are the key benefits of using a drive over grain auger?
>> 2. How often should I inspect my drive over grain auger?
>> 3. What are the most critical components to check during maintenance?
>> 4. How can I prevent wear on the flighting of my drive over grain auger?
>> 5. What safety precautions should I take when operating a drive over grain auger?
Maintaining a drive over grain auger is crucial for efficient grain handling and to extend its lifespan. This article will guide you through the essential steps to keep your drive over grain auger in top condition, ensuring it continues to perform optimally throughout its operational life.
A drive over grain auger is a versatile piece of equipment designed to facilitate the efficient transfer of grain from trucks or other vehicles into storage facilities. It typically involves a pit or trench where the auger is positioned, allowing vehicles to drive over it for easy unloading. This setup enhances safety and reduces labor by eliminating the need for manual handling or complex positioning of vehicles.
- Efficiency: They allow for quick and easy unloading of grain without requiring precise positioning of vehicles.
- Safety: Reduces the risk of accidents by minimizing the need for manual intervention.
- Durability: Properly maintained, these systems can last for many years.
Regular inspections are key to identifying potential issues before they become major problems. Check for signs of wear and tear on the auger tube, bearings, belts, pulleys, and motor. Ensure all guards are in place and functional to prevent accidents.
- Auger Tube: Look for cracks or corrosion.
- Bearings: Check for smooth operation and adequate lubrication.
- Belts and Pulleys: Ensure proper tension and alignment.
- Motor: Verify it is functioning correctly without overheating.
Grain augers can accumulate debris, dust, and even rodents, which can cause damage and clog the system. Regular cleaning is essential:
- Sweeping or Blowing: Remove loose debris.
- Pressure Washing: Use a pressure washer to clean the system thoroughly.
- Drying: Ensure the auger is completely dry after cleaning to prevent rust[4].
Proper lubrication is vital for smooth operation:
- Bearings: Ensure they are adequately lubricated.
- Chains: Check the condition and lubrication of chains.
- Drive System: Lubricate according to the manufacturer's specifications[3][4].
The drive system is critical for the auger's operation:
- Belts and Chains: Check tension and alignment.
- Gears: Ensure proper engagement and lubrication.
- Motor: Monitor for overheating and ensure it is functioning correctly.
When not in use, store the drive over grain auger in a dry, protected location:
- Covering: Use a tarp or protective covering to shield from the elements.
- Debris Removal: Clear any accumulated grain or debris before storage[4].
A high-quality drive over grain auger should have a tube with a single seam along the top. This design reduces internal resistance to grain flow, contributing to gentler grain handling and longer auger life.
The flighting should be made from heavy-gauge steel, ideally 12-gauge, which is more robust and durable than thinner materials. Look for augers with replaceable flighting edges to extend the life of the equipment.
For longer augers, steel trussing is preferable to cables for added stability and longevity.
Ensure the top drive box is sealed and lubricated to prevent wear on the chain and sprockets.
A brass bushing in the hopper can enhance durability and reduce wear.
Positioning vehicles over the drive over grain auger can be tricky. Use marks on the ground to guide drivers and ensure proper alignment.
Regularly inspect for wear, especially in high-stress areas like the flighting and bearings. Replace worn parts promptly to maintain efficiency.
Always ensure all safety guards are in place and functional. Regular maintenance helps prevent accidents by eliminating hazards.
When starting a new or recently serviced drive over grain auger, follow a break-in procedure similar to that recommended for conventional augers. Run the auger at half speed without grain for a few minutes, then gradually increase speed and add grain until it reaches full operation. This helps "shine up" the flighting and tube, reducing wear over time.
Establish a routine lubrication schedule based on the manufacturer's recommendations. Regular greasing of bearings, chains, and sprockets is crucial for extending the life of moving parts.
Ensure that the drive over grain auger operates within its designed speed and load capacities. Overloading or excessive speed can lead to premature wear and failure.
Train operators on proper maintenance and operation procedures. Knowledgeable staff are more likely to identify issues early, reducing downtime and extending equipment life.
Before each harvest season, conduct thorough pre-season maintenance. This includes inspecting all components, replacing worn parts, and ensuring all safety guards are in place.
Ensure all safety guards are properly secured and functional. The guard surrounding the auger intake is particularly important[1][2].
Keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit readily accessible during maintenance.
Maintain a safe work area by ensuring no obstructions or hazards are present. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for safe operation and maintenance.
Electrically driven augers pose a risk of electrocution. Ensure all electric wiring is in good condition and use a Residual Current Device (RCD) when operating near power lines[5].
Be aware of overhead power lines when moving or operating the auger. Lower the auger to a horizontal position before transporting it to avoid accidents[3][5].
Create a designated work zone around the drive over grain auger to limit distractions and prevent unauthorized access. Use signage and barriers to keep bystanders at a safe distance until the equipment is shut off[2].
Ensure operators wear tight-fitting clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection to prevent entanglements and injuries[2][7].
Provide regular training sessions for operators to emphasize safety protocols and the importance of maintaining equipment properly.
Creating a maintenance schedule is essential for ensuring that your drive over grain auger receives the attention it needs. This schedule should include regular inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and checks on the drive system. By sticking to this schedule, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
In addition to ensuring all safety guards are in place, consider implementing additional safety measures such as:
- Warning Signs: Place warning signs around the area to alert drivers and pedestrians of potential hazards.
- Training Sessions: Conduct regular training sessions for operators to ensure they are familiar with the equipment and its safe operation.
- Emergency Procedures: Develop and communicate emergency procedures in case of accidents or equipment failure.
Before each harvest season, ensure you have completed the following tasks:
- Inspect All Components: Check for wear and damage on the auger tube, flighting, bearings, belts, and pulleys.
- Replace Worn Parts: Replace any worn or damaged components to maintain efficiency and safety.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Test the Equipment: Run the equipment at half speed without grain to ensure it is functioning correctly before full operation.
- Electrocution Prevention: Always lower grain augers to the horizontal position before moving them to avoid hitting overhead power lines[2][5].
- Entanglement Prevention: Ensure all guards are in place and functional. Wear tight-fitting clothing to prevent entanglements in moving parts[2][7].
Maintaining a drive over grain auger requires regular inspections, thorough cleaning, proper lubrication, and careful storage. By following these guidelines and ensuring your equipment is well-designed and constructed, you can significantly extend its lifespan and enhance its performance.
- Efficiency: Quick and easy unloading of grain.
- Safety: Reduces manual handling risks.
- Durability: Proper maintenance extends its lifespan.
Regular inspections should be conducted before each use and at the end of each harvest season to identify potential issues early.
- Auger Tube: For cracks or corrosion.
- Bearings: Ensure smooth operation and adequate lubrication.
- Flighting: Check for wear and damage.
Use heavy-gauge steel flighting and ensure it is properly aligned. Regularly inspect and replace worn edges to maintain efficiency.
Always ensure all safety guards are in place and functional. Regular maintenance helps prevent accidents by eliminating hazards.
[1] https://alliant.com/news-resources/article-grain-bin-safety-grain-safety-the-do-s-don-ts-of-grain-augers/
[2] https://blog.gooddayswork.ag/blog/grain-auger-best-practices-0
[3] https://nasdonline.org/static_content/documents/105/d001648.pdf
[4] https://www.agrivisionequipment.com/blog/grain-auger-maintenance-tips--66833
[5] https://aghealth.sydney.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/grain_handling_safety_guide.pdf
[6] https://news.westfieldaugers.com.au/8-point-service-checklist-for-your-transportable-grain-auger
[7] https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/198500/Safe-Operating-Procedures-04-Storing-and-Handling-Grain-Silos-and-Grain-Augers.pdf
[8] https://www.grainews.ca/machinery/off-season-checklist-for-grain-cart-inspections/
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1d30j7_BmU
[10] https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0013/20272/workingacrossborders_grainaugers.pdf
[11] https://sudenga.com/news/preparing-equipment-for-harvest/
[12] https://www.davetheaugerman.com/pdf/Wheatheart/Manuals/14.pdf
[13] https://extension.psu.edu/grain-auger-safety
[14] https://www.rangelinegroup.com/2024/09/09/combine-maintenance-essential-upkeep-amp-parts-checklist/
[15] https://www.ngfa.org/wp-content/uploads/Guidance-for-Sweep-Auger-Operations-in-Grain-Bins-FINAL-1-28-14.pdf
[16] https://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/videoresource/stpgrnaug.pdf
[17] https://www.aggrowth.com/globalassets/brands-section/westfield/support-resources/manuals/31125.pdf
[18] https://www.feedandgrain.com/expert-insights/fg-chat/video/15384216/grain-auger-safety-maintenance-tips-video
[19] https://walshandford.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AUGERS-JULY-2020-V5.pdf
[20] https://www.agproud.com/articles/54112-grain-cart-maintenance-for-an-efficient-harvest
