When it comes to moving bulk materials efficiently, a well-designed conveyor system can make all the difference. Among the many options available, the drag chain conveyor stands out for its versatility, durability, and ability to handle demanding industrial applications. At KC Supply Co., we’ve helped many operations determine when a drag chain conveyor is the right choice—and when another style might be better. Here’s an in-depth look at drag chain conveyors, including how they differ from “en-masse” versions and what that means for your facility.

What Is a Drag Chain Conveyor?

A drag chain conveyor uses an endless chain equipped with flights—or paddles—within an enclosed trough to move material from one point to another. Unlike open systems, everything occurs inside a sealed enclosure, helping control dust, protect product quality, and reduce spillage. What sets the drag chain conveyor apart is the way it conveys bulk solids: by dragging or scraping them through the housing, not by simply lifting them.

Standard vs. En-Masse Drag Chain Conveyors

Within the category of drag chain conveyors, variations exist. Two common types include:

• Paddle or Scraper-Style Drag Chain Conveyors: These use dual chains with flights or paddles mounted between them that physically push bulk material forward. Because the flights occupy much of the cross section of the housing, the effective conveying area is reduced. The design works—but it often requires more horsepower and larger troughs to move the same volume of material. Hapman+1

• En-Masse Drag Chain Conveyors: In these systems, a single chain strand with skeletal-style flights drags the material en masse, meaning the bulk material moves almost as a mass along with the chain. Because of this, the conveying section can use up to ~90% of the available cross-sectional area, making it more space- and energy-efficient. Hapman

At KC Supply Co., we find that many operations benefit from choosing the en-masse style when space, efficiency, and long conveyor runs are considerations.

Why Choose a Drag Chain Conveyor?

Here are several compelling reasons to consider a drag chain conveyor in your facility:

• Enclosed Design: Because it runs inside a housing, it contains dust and material spillage—important for agricultural, feed, or mineral applications.

• Gentle Material Handling: The dragging motion is less aggressive than some lifts or bucket elevators, so it’s better for materials that don’t tolerate aggressive handling.

• Space Efficient (Especially En-Masse Style): With higher cross-section utilization, en-masse variations pack more conveying capacity into smaller footprints.

• Energy Efficiency: Lower chain speeds and optimized flight designs reduce horsepower requirements compared to other methods in many cases. CDM Systems, Inc.+1

When to Choose Paddle Style Over En-Masse—and Vice-Versa

• Paddle/dual-chain style can be a good choice when cost is critical, conveyor runs are shorter, or the material is coarse and less flowable.

• En-Masse style is often better when you have large capacities, want minimal horsepower, need long runs, and want to maximize space utilization.

At KC Supply Co., we evaluate your material characteristics (flowability, abrasion, moisture), your layout (horizontal runs, inclines, bends), and your throughput to guide you toward the best drag chain conveyor type.

Key Design & Operational Considerations

• Proper chain tensioning is crucial—too loose and the flights will sag; too tight and bearings, chain, and sprockets wear prematurely. Brock News

• Incline and length matter: En-masse conveyors work best in shallow inclines (often under 10-15°) before performance begins to drop. Brock News+1

• Material type impacts flight design: Skeletal or “O”-flights, filler plates, or tailored chain specs may be needed for high-moisture or cohesive materials. Hapman

• Maintenance access: Because drag chain conveyors house moving parts inside enclosures, ensure that access doors, inspection ports, and tensioning mechanisms are included.

KC Supply Co.: Your Partner in Drag Chain Conveyor Solutions

If you’re evaluating drag chain conveyors for your facility, KC Supply Co. can help. From initial application analysis to system design, installation, and upkeep, we bring expertise to ensure your conveyor system meets your throughput goals, budget, and operational demands.

Whether you’re handling grain, pelletized feed, minerals, or bulk agricultural products, we’ll guide you through the comparison of standard and en-masse drag chain conveyors—and help you choose the right one for your needs.

Final Thoughts

A drag chain conveyor is more than just another conveyor—it’s a solution that, when properly selected and maintained, offers efficiency, containment, and longevity. Understanding the functional differences between styles—especially the en-masse variation—can help you make smarter decisions, reduce downtime, and save on power and space.

Contact KC Supply Co. today and let us help you move smarter with a drag chain conveyor system built for your application.

When it comes to moving bulk materials efficiently and reliably, drag conveyors have long been a trusted solution across agriculture, feed mills, grain facilities, and industrial operations. At KC Supply Co., we often recommend drag conveyors for facilities that need a durable, low-maintenance option to move grain, pellets, or other bulk products with minimal product loss and dust.

Here’s what you should know about drag conveyors, how they work, and why they may be the right fit for your operation.

What Are Drag Conveyors?

Drag conveyors use a chain and flight system that drags material along the bottom of an enclosed trough. Unlike screw conveyors that move material by rotation, drag conveyors gently push or pull product forward, making them ideal for horizontal or slightly inclined conveying.

Because they operate inside an enclosed casing, drag conveyors help reduce dust, protect product quality, and keep the work environment cleaner and safer.

Key Benefits of Drag Conveyors

1. Gentle on Product
   Drag conveyors minimize grain breakage and preserve quality because they move material at slower speeds compared to other systems.

2. Durable and Low Maintenance
   Their heavy-duty chain and flight construction can withstand abrasive materials and long hours of operation with less frequent servicing.

3. Energy Efficient
   Drag conveyors require less horsepower to move the same amount of material compared to some other conveyor types, making them cost-effective for large-scale facilities.

4. Dust Control
   With fully enclosed troughs, drag conveyors limit airborne dust, which is essential for both product quality and worker safety.

5. Versatile Applications
   Drag conveyors can handle grains, pellets, wood chips, and other bulk materials, making them a flexible choice for many industries.

Common Uses in Agriculture and Industry

Drag conveyors are especially popular in:

• Grain Elevators and Feed Mills: Moving corn, soybeans, and other grains gently and efficiently.

• Processing Plants: Handling powders or pelletized materials with minimal spillage.

• Industrial Facilities: Transporting heavy or abrasive materials in mining, wood, and energy sectors.

Their enclosed design makes them ideal for facilities that prioritize dust control and maintaining product integrity during transport.

Choosing the Right Drag Conveyor

Selecting the right conveyor starts with understanding your operational needs:

• Capacity Requirements: Determine the volume of material to be conveyed per hour.

• Material Type: Consider density, abrasiveness, and flowability.

• Distance and Layout: Choose a conveyor size and configuration that fits your facility’s space and distance requirements.

• Maintenance Access: Ensure you have the right access points for chain inspection and upkeep.

A well-chosen drag conveyor not only streamlines operations but also reduces downtime and extends equipment lifespan.

Maintenance Tips for Drag Conveyors

Routine maintenance helps keep your drag conveyor running efficiently:

• Inspect the chain regularly for wear or stretching.

• Check flights and trough liners for damage.

• Keep tension properly adjusted to avoid excessive wear.

• Lubricate bearings and moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Remove buildup or debris that can reduce efficiency or lead to premature failure.

Consistent upkeep minimizes costly repairs and ensures continuous, reliable operation.

KC Supply Co. – Your Partner for Material Handling Solutions

At KC Supply Co., we understand the importance of dependable material handling. Whether you’re upgrading an older system or installing new equipment, we can help you select, install, and maintain the right drag conveyors for your facility. Our team works with you to ensure your conveyor system meets your capacity needs and stands up to your toughest operating conditions.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right drag conveyor system can improve productivity, maintain product quality, and enhance workplace safety. By understanding the basics of drag conveyors—from their design to their benefits—you can make informed decisions that pay off for years to come.

Contact KC Supply Co. today to explore our range of drag conveyors and discover how we can help optimize your material handling operations.

When it comes to moving bulk materials efficiently and reliably, drag conveyors have long been a trusted solution across agriculture, feed mills, grain facilities, and industrial operations. At KC Supply Co., we often recommend drag conveyors for facilities that need a durable, low-maintenance option to move grain, pellets, or other bulk products with minimal product loss and dust.

Here’s what you should know about drag conveyors, how they work, and why they may be the right fit for your operation.

What Are Drag Conveyors?

Drag conveyors use a chain and flight system that drags material along the bottom of an enclosed trough. Unlike screw conveyors that move material by rotation, drag conveyors gently push or pull product forward, making them ideal for horizontal or slightly inclined conveying.

Because they operate inside an enclosed casing, drag conveyors help reduce dust, protect product quality, and keep the work environment cleaner and safer.

Key Benefits of Drag Conveyors

1. Gentle on Product
   Drag conveyors minimize grain breakage and preserve quality because they move material at slower speeds compared to other systems.

2. Durable and Low Maintenance
   Their heavy-duty chain and flight construction can withstand abrasive materials and long hours of operation with less frequent servicing.

3. Energy Efficient
   Drag conveyors require less horsepower to move the same amount of material compared to some other conveyor types, making them cost-effective for large-scale facilities.

4. Dust Control
   With fully enclosed troughs, drag conveyors limit airborne dust, which is essential for both product quality and worker safety.

5. Versatile Applications
   Drag conveyors can handle grains, pellets, wood chips, and other bulk materials, making them a flexible choice for many industries.

Common Uses in Agriculture and Industry

Drag conveyors are especially popular in:

• Grain Elevators and Feed Mills: Moving corn, soybeans, and other grains gently and efficiently.

• Processing Plants: Handling powders or pelletized materials with minimal spillage.

• Industrial Facilities: Transporting heavy or abrasive materials in mining, wood, and energy sectors.

Their enclosed design makes them ideal for facilities that prioritize dust control and maintaining product integrity during transport.

Choosing the Right Drag Conveyor

Selecting the right conveyor starts with understanding your operational needs:

• Capacity Requirements: Determine the volume of material to be conveyed per hour.

• Material Type: Consider density, abrasiveness, and flowability.

• Distance and Layout: Choose a conveyor size and configuration that fits your facility’s space and distance requirements.

• Maintenance Access: Ensure you have the right access points for chain inspection and upkeep.

A well-chosen drag conveyor not only streamlines operations but also reduces downtime and extends equipment lifespan.

Maintenance Tips for Drag Conveyors

Routine maintenance helps keep your drag conveyor running efficiently:

• Inspect the chain regularly for wear or stretching.

• Check flights and trough liners for damage.

• Keep tension properly adjusted to avoid excessive wear.

• Lubricate bearings and moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Remove buildup or debris that can reduce efficiency or lead to premature failure.

Consistent upkeep minimizes costly repairs and ensures continuous, reliable operation.

KC Supply Co. – Your Partner for Material Handling Solutions

At KC Supply Co., we understand the importance of dependable material handling. Whether you’re upgrading an older system or installing new equipment, we can help you select, install, and maintain the right drag conveyors for your facility. Our team works with you to ensure your conveyor system meets your capacity needs and stands up to your toughest operating conditions.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right drag conveyor system can improve productivity, maintain product quality, and enhance workplace safety. By understanding the basics of drag conveyors—from their design to their benefits—you can make informed decisions that pay off for years to come.

Contact KC Supply Co. today to explore our range of drag conveyors and discover how we can help optimize your material handling operations.

When setting up or upgrading a screw conveyor system, one of the key design decisions is whether to configure the drive to push material or to pull it through the trough. That decision, while seemingly subtle, can influence the alignment, wear, and reliability of your system. At KC Supply Co., we often guide clients through this choice to maximize lifespan and minimize maintenance. Here’s what you should know.

What Do “Pushing” and “Pulling” Mean in Screw Conveyors?

In a screw conveyor, a rotating helical flight moves material through a trough or tube. The drive (motor + gearbox) can be placed at either end:

• Pushing means the drive is at the inlet (tail) end, so the screw “pushes” the material forward.

• Pulling means the drive is at the discharge (head) end, pulling the material toward its exit.

Although either arrangement can move material, they impose different mechanical stresses on the system, which affects performance and maintenance.

The Case for Pulling: Why Many Prefer It

Many experienced designers and suppliers recommend configuring the conveyor to pull material toward the discharge end. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Tension on the Screw Sections
   Pulling puts the internal tube or shaft in tension. This tends to keep the screw sections aligned and straighter, reducing deflection or bending under load. In contrast, pushing adds compression stress, which can magnify bowing or misalignment over time.

2. Reduced Risk of Kinks or Misalignment
   Think about pushing a chain versus pulling it. If you push, it may buckle; if you pull, it stays taut. The same principle applies to screw conveyors. Pulling tends to maintain a straighter path, especially in longer multi-segment systems.

3. Less Fatigue on Components
   Because pulling tends to minimize bending loads, bearings, shaft couplings, and joints may experience lower fatigue. That can translate into fewer breakdowns and longer service life.

Because of these benefits, many conveyor designers place the drive at the discharge end when space and layout allow.

Why You Might Be Pushing Instead

It’s not always practical or possible to use a pull configuration. Sometimes the layout, height constraints, or equipment positioning force a push arrangement. In those cases, you must design and maintain carefully to mitigate the drawbacks:

• Make alignment checks a routine part of maintenance. A pushing configuration is more sensitive to misalignment, so frequent checking and adjustment help avoid early wear or failure.

• Use robust components—stronger shafts, stiffer bearings, and higher-quality couplings—to resist compression stresses.

• Keep the conveying distance shorter if possible. Pushing over long distances increases the risk of deflection and component fatigue.

• Monitor for bending or bowing of the screw. If you notice it creeping over time, you may need to redesign the layout or consider rerouting to a pulling configuration.

Design and Operational Tips Regardless of Configuration

Whether your system is pushing or pulling, good design practice helps you get the most out of your screw conveyor:

• Match the conveyor speed and diameter to the material’s properties (density, abrasiveness, flowability). Overloading worsens stresses.

• Limit trough loading percentages so the material operates below critical stress levels rather than packing or overburdening the flight.

• Use intermediate supports or bearings carefully—especially in longer conveyors, to prevent sagging or misalignment.

• Plan for maintenance access to allow inspection, cleaning, and correction of alignment.

• Ensure strong drive components—a stiff shaft, properly sized gearbox, and high-quality bearings help counter the stresses introduced by pushing or pulling.

Conclusion

The choice between pushing and pulling in screw conveyors isn’t just a matter of convention—it’s a practical tradeoff affecting alignment, stress, and reliability. While pulling (drive on the discharge end) often gives better long-term stability, you should weigh your facility’s layout and constraints carefully. If pushing is your only option, designing defensively and scheduling regular upkeep can help you avoid premature failures.

At KC Supply Co., we can help you specify, design, and maintain your screw conveyor system—whether pushing or pulling—to get reliable, efficient material handling performance. Let us know your application and requirements, and we’ll work with you to find the best setup.

When it comes to grain storage, choosing the right capacity can make or break your operation’s efficiency, safety, and profitability. Whether you’re a small farm looking to simplify harvest logistics or a growing enterprise planning for the future, understanding how to select proper storage capacity is critical. At KC Supply Co., we’re here to help you make the smart choice—one that fits your needs now and flexes with your growth down the road.

Why Capacity Matters

Your storage capacity determines how much grain you can hold, which affects everything from harvest timing and marketing flexibility to bin layout and equipment requirements. Too little capacity can force rushed sales or make you rely too heavily on external storage. But oversized capacity ties up capital and takes up more space than you actually need.

Finding that sweet spot ensures you can store securely, preserve grain quality, and maintain operational control.

Key Questions to Ask When Planning Capacity

Here’s what you need to think about first:

1. What’s Your Current Output?
   Calculate your typical annual yield in bushels and use that as your base measurement. That’s the starting point for your storage needs.

2. Are You Adding to Existing Bins or Building New Ones?
   If you’re expanding, ensure your new capacity works with current bin layout, unloading systems, and foundations.

3. Do You Have Space or Height Constraints?
   Physical limitations can shape your options. Truck clearance lanes, site drainage, and local building restrictions may favor wider, shorter bins over tall, narrow ones.

4. What’s Your Budget?
   A new bin can be a better long-term investment than repairing a failing one. Weigh upfront costs against efficiency gains, downtime risks, and replacement expenses.

5. How Long Will Grain Stay in Storage?
   If you plan on holding season-long, you’ll need ample capacity. If grain moves off quickly, you may get by with more modest sizing—but unexpected weather or market delays can always change that.

6. Where Are You Headed in 5 to 10 Years?
   Planning for growth means you won’t outgrow your facilities. Look for expandable or modular designs that allow you to scale up without building from scratch later.

Capacity Meets Innovation

Just selecting the right bin capacity isn’t enough. Consider features that optimize how you use that space:

• Aeration Systems to maintain grain quality over extended storage

• High-Strength Designs (such as stiffened bins) that support taller structures and higher capacities

• Ease of Access with properly sized doors, catwalks, and safety features

These investments help you capture more value from your stored grain and protect your operation’s long-term success.

KC Supply Co. Can Help You Right-Size Your Storage

You don’t have to figure out bin sizing alone. At KC Supply Co., we’re experts in assessing storage needs—matching capacity, site conditions, and operational goals to turnkey grain storage solutions.

We help you determine:

• Exactly how many bushels you’ll need to store

• Whether standalone bins or additions to existing facilities make the most sense

• If your setup allows for future expansion

• What supplemental equipment (fans, ladders, safety gear) supports the capacity in place

Final Thoughts

Getting grain storage capacity right is about balancing today’s harvest demands with tomorrow’s growth. Storage that fits just right helps preserve grain quality, minimize losses, and maximize your ability to market when the time is best.

Ready to get started? Reach out to KC Supply Co. today, and let’s make sure your grain storage capacity supports your most excellent yields—now and in the future.

Grain storage is a critical investment for every operation, and one of the most important decisions is selecting the right bin size. Choosing a bin that’s too small can lead to overflow, rushed sales, and missed market opportunities, while an oversized bin can tie up unnecessary capital and create inefficiencies. At KC Supply Co., we know that finding the right balance is key to both profitability and safety.

Why Bin Size Matters

Your grain bin is more than just storage—it’s part of your operational strategy. The right bin size helps you:

• Maximize Profitability: Store grain long enough to wait for better market prices.

• Streamline Logistics: Handle harvest more efficiently without relying solely on off-site storage.

• Protect Quality: Reduce grain movement and exposure, which can help maintain quality and safety.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bin Size

1. Acreage and Crop Yields
   Start by looking at how many acres you farm and your average yields per acre. Knowing your expected total bushels per crop will help you plan bin capacity that fits your operation today—and in the future.

2. Number of Crops and Harvest Timing
   If you store multiple crops, consider the timing of your harvests. Crops coming off the field close together may require more space to avoid bottlenecks during busy harvest periods.

3. Marketing and Holding Strategy
   Producers with a “sell later” strategy will want larger bins to hold grain for extended periods. If your goal is quick turnover, you might lean toward smaller bins with faster loading and unloading systems.

4. Future Growth
   Building for the farm you’ll have in five or ten years is often more cost-effective than upgrading later. Planning ahead now prevents costly expansions and downtime.

5. Available Space and Infrastructure
   Bin placement matters. Ensure your site layout accommodates truck traffic, auger or conveyor systems, and future additions.

Matching Bin Size with Technology

Modern storage systems are designed to make large bins more manageable. Features like high-capacity fans, temperature cables, and automated controls help maintain quality and simplify grain management, no matter the bin’s size. When planning your purchase, factor in these accessories to get the most out of your investment.

Safety Considerations

With larger bins comes a greater need for safety. Proper ladders, platforms, and safety gear are non-negotiable when scaling up your bin size. KC Supply Co. offers fall protection systems, rescue tools, and safety equipment designed for grain storage facilities of every size.

Let KC Supply Co. Help You Plan

Choosing the right bin size isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires careful planning, understanding your goals, and accounting for future growth. At KC Supply Co., we’re here to guide you through every step, from bin selection to installation, safety equipment, and ongoing support.

Whether you’re a growing farm operation or a commercial grain handler, we’ll help you design a system that keeps your grain secure, your team safe, and your operation efficient.