Quality and durability matter when it comes to using a hopper for various materials handling applications. When selecting a self dumping hopper, you have a choice between products that are made of metal and plastic. Metal hoppers are more versatile because they can handle both light duty and heavy duty loads.
Plastic hoppers may be best only for light duty loads. A metal hopper typically comes with a heavy duty steel body. A basic hopper, for instance, can be made of 10 gauge and 12 gauge steel and can handle loads up to 4,000 lbs.
Metal Hoppers for More Demanding Applications
For heavier and more demanding requirements, the hopper can be made of 3/16” plate steel bodies and thick 1/4” plate steel, and they are continuously welded inside to ensure superior durability.
A metal stainless steel hopper or industrial hopper is superior to a plastic hopper when it comes to being able to handle certain types of materials, such as hot ash, forgings and castings, minerals, heavy construction materials, and concrete.
Plastic hoppers may get damaged or melt when hot ash or coal is poured into them. A metal hopper with a continuously welded 1/4” and 3/16” carbon steel body, a long tube box base with a side bold latch should be able to handle these materials safely and efficiently without causing any problems.
Metal hoppers are versatile for different applications. These products can handle light duty loads like construction debris, lightweight recyclables, aluminum cans, plastics, wood, metal turnings, and plastics.
They can be used for applications that require safe materials handling equipment for rubber, sawdust, sand, glass, stampings, and metal scraps, too.
Reputable manufacturers of materials handling equipment ensure that their metal hoppers are reliable and can improve the safety and productivity in your workplace.
The most heavy duty hoppers feature a continuous stop bar and base to body chains for additional reinforcements to stops. They come with a secure flip latch, multiple rows of side and back angles, and double bottom support channels for ultimate reinforcement.