Analysis of a sheet metal bucket elevator head

Abstract

This dissertation reports the analysis of a currently designed sheet metal head manufactured by Downfields. The analysis was primarily evaluated by assessment of finite element results. The documentation covers a brief summary of the background and manufacture followed by testing then finally the analysis. Testing was to compare variation between zinc coated and uncoated steel as well as the comparison of simple samples with finite element models. The final analysis covers worst-case scenario loadings with structural variations caused by wear and corrosion. This analysis allows a better understanding of the behaviour of the structure in loaded situations and opens the opportunity for assisting in future new design changes.