Why Farmers Do Not Need AR-Lined Conveyors: Understanding the Right Choice for Grain Handling

AR-lined conveyors are often thought to be more durable due to their abrasion-resistant design. However, they can actually have a shorter lifespan than standard conveyors in many agricultural settings. This is because AR liners tend to corrode the conveyor prematurely when exposed to moisture or certain chemicals, leading to increased maintenance costs and reduced efficiency over time. For grain handling, standard conveyors are usually a better fit. Here’s why:

1. Grain Is Not Highly Abrasive

AR-lined conveyors are designed to withstand constant wear from extremely abrasive materials like sand, gravel, or mining ores. However, grain such as wheat, corn, or soybeans does not cause the same level of wear. In most agricultural operations, standard grain conveyors made from durable, but less costly materials, will perform just as well without the added expense of AR lining.

2. Higher Costs Without Significant Benefit

AR-lined conveyors are more expensive due to the specialized materials used in their construction. For farmers who do not handle highly abrasive products, this additional cost is unnecessary. Standard grain conveyors already provide sufficient durability for everyday farm use, ensuring reliable operation without the inflated price.

3. AR-Lined Conveyors Have a Shorter Lifespan

As mentioned earlier, AR-lined conveyors often experience premature wear due to the corrosion of the AR liners, especially when exposed to moisture or farm chemicals. For farmers working in environments with fluctuating humidity or wet conditions, this means that an AR-lined conveyor may need to be replaced sooner than a standard conveyor.

4. Energy Efficiency Matters More

Many AR-lined conveyors require more powerful motors to operate efficiently due to the added weight of abrasion-resistant materials. For farmers, this can result in higher energy consumption. Instead, choosing a lightweight, energy-efficient grain conveyor can reduce operational costs and increase the overall efficiency of the farming operation.

5. Easier Maintenance and Repairs

Farmers need equipment that is easy to maintain and repair. Standard grain conveyors are often more straightforward to service compared to AR-lined systems, which may require specialized parts or knowledge to repair. For most farming applications, keeping maintenance simple and cost-effective is a priority.

6. Flexibility for Various Types of Grain

Most farmers handle a wide range of grains, and the conditions for handling these grains can vary significantly. Standard grain conveyors are versatile and can adapt to different grains and conditions, providing the flexibility needed on a farm. AR-lined conveyors, on the other hand, are designed with specific heavy-duty applications in mind, limiting their adaptability in agricultural settings.

Conclusion

For most farmers, investing in AR-lined conveyors offers little advantage for grain handling and incurs unnecessary costs. Not only are they more expensive, but they can also have a shorter lifespan due to corrosion in farm environments. Instead, focusing on high-quality, standard grain conveyors designed for agricultural use will provide durability, efficiency, and cost savings without the need for abrasion-resistant linings.

Our company offers a wide range of grain conveyors specifically designed for farm applications, ensuring you get the right equipment for your needs without overpaying for unnecessary features. Contact us today to learn more!