How does Sukup design for settlement?

Sukup encourages soil testing be performed and an engineering firm hired to use those results in providing concrete plans. To design for settlement there must be a slip fit connection between downspouts and bin lids, unloads to conveyors, and catwalk connections.

Why do you need to know the location of my project for quoting?

Different locations produce differing amounts of wind, ice, snow, and seismic activity, so knowing the location of the project ensures that we are able to include the most appropriate geographic-specific structural equipment (towers, catwalks, & substructures) in your quote.

Can I quote my project based on future expansion?

Yes, we recommend you ask your local dealer to quote your project with the possible future expansion.

Do you sell internationally?

Yes, Sukup has products in more than 87 countries.

Do you offer custom products?

Sukup products are designed to be modular and fit many applications. Contact your local dealer to learn more. You can see many of examples of the variety we can provide on our products page.

Does Sukup Manufacturing Co. do product installation?

Our extensive dealer network is your first source for installation and service. Find your dealer here.

How do I become a dealer for Sukup Manufacturing?

Contact our Sales Manager for further information.

What products does Sukup offer?

Sukup offers grain bins, dryers, material handling, and grain handling. We are also proud to set the standard for the best customer service in the industry. Find more information about our products here.

Does Sukup Manufacturing offer financing?

Although Sukup does not offer financing we can connect you to other ag leasing and lending companies.

Does Sukup offer a warranty on the parts or equipment?

Yes, warranties vary by products. The warranty is included in the front of every product manual.

Where are Sukup products made?

Most manufacturing is done at our headquarters in Sheffield, Iowa, and we proudly use 100% American-made steel coils. Eugene and Mary Sukup founded the company in Sheffield in 1963, and we call it home to this day.

What shipping options do you offer?

Sukup offers customer pickup from our headquarters in Sheffield, Iowa, or from our six distribution center locations. We also offer full semi load delivery to the job site or to your local dealer's location. UPS or freight is an option too.

How can I find a dealer?

You can find your local dealer by clicking on Find Your Dealer located at the top and bottom of the page, enter your zip code and equipment of interest and the nearest dealers will be listed.

I'm a farmer, can I buy direct from Sukup Manufacturing?

We sell our products through an extensive and knowledgeable dealer network. You can use our Dealer Locator to find your local dealer who can offer service as well as Sukup parts and products,

How do I manage my stored grain?

See the following link for more information on managing stored grain (Managing Stored Grain).

My grain is wet and the temperature is cold. Can I put a heater on the bin?

Yes, you can. However if you increase temperature by more than 10 degrees, you will most likely over dry the bottom grain before the top gets dry unless you have a stirring machine in the bin (Managing Stored Grain).

Can I add a side draw to my bin?

Not all bins are designed to have a sidedraw added. Contact Sukup to see what is needed to do this or if it is even possible.

NOTICE: Use only Sukup-designed sidedraw discharge units and interior baffles with Sukup bins.
Never change function of a bin’s intended use. Sukup bins are designed for specific amounts of grain and weight and to be loaded and unloaded in a certain manner. If bin was not intended for a sidedraw, uneven unloading pressures may cause bin failure. Know the purpose for which bin was constructed. Never add sidedraw to existing bin without consulting an independent engineer or obtaining written approval from Sukup.

Can I add more rings to my bin?

In most cases, yes; however, other factors must be considered:

• Foundation: The current foundation may be compromised with the additional grain load. Consult a licensed structural engineer.
• Floor Support Requirements: If a full floor is present, additional floor supports may be required with the shortening of support spacings.
• Fan Size: Additional ring(s) will affect the airflow rate moving up through a deeper grain mass, which may result in needing a larger horsepower fan or an additional fan to achieve the same cfm/bu.
• Cost Effective: Depending upon number of rings being added, additional costs from the above factors and bin jacking costs, it may be a better option to add an additional grain bin.

DISCLAIMER: It shall be the sole responsibility of the customer to obtain actual foundation drawings designed by and constructed to the specifications of a licensed professional structural engineer with knowledge of the actual soil and load specific to the project and location. Consideration should also include, but not be limited to, live loads, dead loads, wind loads, soil bearing loads, seismic zone, proper moisture run-off on top of base, and types of aeration applied for the project. Sukup Manufacturing Co. will not be responsible for any damage to a product, including, but not limited to, any damage that results from poor soil conditions or inadequate concrete type, grade, bearing strength, and construction method. Soil bearing tests must be performed by a competent, independent, engineering firm. Concrete foundation construction must be done by a competent concrete contractor.

My center well "sump" is plugged. Can I open my intermediate sumps?

This could cause damage to the sidewall. Please contact Sukup Manufacturing Co. or your dealer for instructions. Do NOT enter the bin. If it is a Sukup unload you may have the Cluster Buster or an independent intermediate sump. Please refer to our Bin Operation Manual for preventing in the future. Sukup is not liable for assistance or instructions provided, as instructions are general and not specific to individualized instances.
NOTICE: Never use intermediate sumps until all grain has flowed by gravity through center sump. Unloading through intermediate sumps initially will cause uneven load distribution that may cause bin damage or failure.

What style of bin is best for wet grain out of the field before a dryer?

A hopper-bottom bin does not require an unload system; however, it allows limited airflow through the grain. A flat bottom bin is less expensive per bushel and will allow you better airflow on the stored grain. A taller and narrower wet bin will have less stationary grain left outside the natural cone. The moisture of the grain during harvest will dictate how often that stationary grain will need to be cleaned out to prevent spoilage.

What are the advantages of cross-flow dryers?

• Least expensive dryer option
• Well suited for full-heat drying and cooling in the bin (most popular system on farm)
• Most versatile dryer, many models can operate in full-heat or heat/cool mode
• Lowest fill height

Can I dry soybeans in my Sukup dryer?

Yes. Start with a low plenum temp, 120-140°F. Use the blow-out doors often to keep the inside clean (several times a day)! Make sure every column is flowing by walking along both sides of dryer and observe grain movement (several times a day). Keep the outside of the dryer very clean! Soybeans have a much higher risk of fire than corn.

What plenum (drying) temperature do you recommend for drying corn?

Sukup dryer plenum temp range is 140-220°F. Recommend starting at 180-190°F and frequently checking grain quality. Higher plenum temps give higher capacity and better fuel efficiency, lower plenum temps give better quality grain.

What style of bin is best for wet grain out of the field before a dryer?

A hopper-bottom bin does not require an unload system; however, it allows limited airflow through the grain. A flat bottom bin is less expensive per bushel and will allow you better airflow on the stored grain. A taller and narrower wet bin will have less stationary grain left outside the natural cone. The moisture of the grain during harvest will dictate how often that stationary grain will need to be cleaned out to prevent spoilage.

What is the best place for a dryer in my grain system?

Dryers should be oriented so that the fans face into the prevailing wind, generally north or west. This prevents vapor from being blown toward the inlet of the fan, and possibly causing flame sensing issues or icing up in below freezing conditions.

What is the incoming pressure requirement for dryers on Natural Gas?

Mixed flow and cross flow dryers will operate within a range of 10 to 18 PSI. However, a regulated pressure of 15 PSI is recommended to obtain maximum rated BTU/HR output. Tower dryers require 8-9 PSI at recommended flow rate.

What is the most current version of software for my dryer?

Sukup recommends using the latest software release that is applicable to your dryer and moisture sensor.

How much airflow do you need to cool hot grain from a continuous flow dryer?

To lose approximately 1.5 – 2.0% of moisture during the cooling process, there are two accepted ways to calculate airflow for cooling:

• 12 CFM per bu/hr from the dryer, based on a full bin.
• 1/3 CFM per bushel in the bin, based on a full bin.

Less airflow risks not being able to sufficiently cool the grain. More airflow results in less moisture loss in the bin, which reduces drying efficiency. The cooling fan should be turned on as soon as there is enough grain in the bin to hold down the floor supports. On larger bins, using two smaller fans with shutters is usually recommended. This allows you to only run one fan until the bin is 2/3 to 3/4 full which reduces airflow with lower grain levels in the bin. When cooling grain in a bin, it is important to use grain spreaders to spread fines out in the bin. It is also important to fill the bin as level as possible. Airflow in bins filled unevenly, or with most of the fines in the middle, is inconsistent as the air will take the path of least resistance, resulting in uneven cooling.In smaller bins, typically filled with hot grain from an in-bin dryer, the process of Dryeration may be used. Often called steeping the grain, this process can increase the capacity of the dryer by removing more moisture in the cooling bin (2-4% moisture). It requires a delayed period before starting the cooling process (turning the fans on). ½ to 1 CFM per bushel in the bin is considered the minimum airflow for Dryeration.

What are the floor support heights needed for a conveyor under a bin floor?

Only 9” tall conveyors will fit under a full floor. Floor supports need to be a minimum of 15 7/8”tall, but 17” is recommended. Taller conveyors can be utilized under a bin floor but concrete modifications may be required.

Is the 16:1 reduction drive wheel filled with oil?

No, we pack it with lithium grease.

Can I handle materials other than grain in my equipment?

Yes, this is quite possible, but certain limitations may apply. Please disclose any and all potential alternate materials to be handled by your equipment so that we can ensure the products you are interested will be tailored to your specific needs.

Can I add more height to a leg or length to a conveyor in the future?

Yes. If planning for future expansion it is more economical to put the larger drive and components on initially. Adding height to a leg may affect the support structure.

What is the proper speed for a conveyor?

For a Hy-Flight Conveyor, do not exceed 160 Feet Per Minute (FPM) with inclinations of 45 degrees. For a Standard Conveyor, use 150 FPM for commercial and 180 FPM or less for the farm series. For a Double Run, use the factory set speed of 325 to 400 FPM based on size. The rated FPM is based on whole dry grain. Optimum speeds are provided. If conveyor is ran too fast, it will shorten the longevity of the chain.

What is the best liner option for the bucket elevator based on application?

• Standard dark blue is good for both impact and abrasion wear.
• High energy orange is the best for the grain industry and in high humidity areas. It will outlast the blue by 20-25%. Do not use for impact applications
• Blue with ceramic chip embed will outlast the blue by 20%, but is difficult to cut.
• Ceramic is used for commercial installations in high volume applications.

What are the floor support heights needed for a conveyor under a bin floor?

Only 9” tall conveyors will fit under a full floor. Floor supports need to be a minimum of 15 7/8”tall, but 17” is recommended. Taller conveyors can be utilized under a bin floor but concrete modifications may be required.

Can I reverse a conveyor?

A conveyor can be reversed only if the conveyor was designed for reversing. Sukup will need to know this at the time of quoting.

Can you have a take up on a conveyor head?

Yes, for an additional cost. Head take ups are more complicated, whereas, on double runs, the take up is always opposite the drive end.

Can I put a drive at the tail end of a double run using a bend section?

No, you need to have the drive at the head end for proper chain tension. The slack in the chain needs to be on (the) return side not the loaded side.

Can a Sweepway be retrofitted with a new Paddle Sweepway?

Yes, minor field modifications to the shaft on the existing gearbox or replacing the shaft in the gearbox would allow the Paddle Sweep to be added.

Is the 16:1 reduction drive wheel filled with oil?

No, we pack it with lithium grease.

Can I start my equipment fully loaded?

Generally, yes for conveyors and double runs, but not necessarily for all other types of equipment. Please disclose potential for doing so prior to quoting so that we may confirm whether or not this is possible with your new equipment. Some form of soft start is preferred.

Can I plumb my spout directly into the lid of the conveyor?

No. Loss of capacity and damage may occur. You need a relief area above the lid for grain to transition into conveyor. Additionally, you need space between the inlet and tail. (You can) use Sukup’s standard inlet or transition inlet.

How do you determine right or left hand drive?

Stand at the discharge and look towards the intake. If it is on your right hand side it is a right hand drive or vice versa.

Can I extend my drag conveyor?

Yes, you are able to extend a drag conveyor depending upon current equipment. Keep in mind sizing for future expansion when ordering.
Warning: Lock out power before performing any maintenance or service inspections. Contact with moving chain and/or paddles could cause death or serious injury.

How is the Sukup Safe T Home^®used?

In addition to serving as homes for individual families, the Safe T Home can also be used as housing for orphanages or group living, structures for medical clinics, school classrooms, and other types of buildings.

How can my organization become involved with Safe T Homes^®?

If you would like to go on a mission trip, raise funds toward a Safe T Home, or share about these hurricane-proof structures in your church or community, reach out to Sukup’s nonprofit partner, GoServ Global . Learn more about Safe T Home and how giving back is inGRAINed® at Sukup here.

How long does it take to construct a Safe T Home^®?

When Sukup designed the Safe T Home, we kept context in mind. Safe T Homes are typically built in remote areas of the world where power tools are not widely available. An experienced crew can build a Safe T Home with simple hand tools in just six hours – and it will stand for up to 75 years! The Safe T Home also provides local workers with valuable construction experience and jobs.

Can a solar panel provide power to a Safe T Home^®?

Yes! While a solar panel is not provided standard with a Safe T Home, every home purchased through GoServ Global comes factory ready for solar panel installation.

Isn't it hot inside a Safe T Home^® in warm climates?

The Safe T Home was specially-designed for tropical climates that are vulnerable to natural disasters, and includes a double roof. As the exterior part of the roof heats up, cooler air is drawn up between the roof levels. The heat is transferred to the air which is expelled at the peak. This shades the interior roof and keeps the rest of the home cooler by 10-12 degrees with no electricity (Safe T Home).

Can I buy a Safe T Home^® for personal use in the United States?

Yes! If you are interested in using a Safe T Home for a hunting shack, camping structure, or “man cave,” email SafeTHome@Sukup.com for more information! Every two homes purchased in the U.S. will fund one home internationally.