2024
In bulk material handling industries such as cement, power generation, mining, metallurgy, and ports, efficient stockpile management is essential for maintaining continuous production and reducing operational costs. One of the most widely used solutions for circular or longitudinal storage yards is the bridge-type scraper reclaimer. Known for its stability, high reclaiming efficiency, and automation capability, this equipment plays a critical role in modern material handling systems.
This article explains the design structure, working principles, advantages, and typical applications of bridge-type scraper reclaimers, while also introducing how Dadi leverages engineering experience and manufacturing strength to deliver reliable reclaimer solutions.

A bridge-type scraper reclaimer is a bulk material reclaiming machine installed over a stockpile, typically in a circular or longitudinal storage yard. It consists of a bridge structure spanning the pile, along which a scraper system moves to collect material and discharge it onto a conveyor belt for downstream processing.
This type of reclaimer is especially suitable for handling materials such as limestone, coal, iron ore, bauxite, clinker, and other granular or powdery bulk materials.
A bridge-type scraper reclaimer is composed of several key systems working together:
The bridge is the main load-bearing framework, usually made of high-strength steel. It spans across the stockpile and supports the scraper mechanism, walking system, and auxiliary equipment. Its rigid design ensures stability during continuous operation.
The scraper system includes scraper chains, scraper blades, and drive units. As the scraper moves along the bridge, it cuts into the material pile and drags material toward the discharge point.
Depending on the yard layout, the reclaimer may be equipped with rail-mounted traveling wheels or walking mechanisms that allow the bridge to move longitudinally or rotationally. This ensures full coverage of the stockpile area.
Collected material is transferred from the scraper to a discharge conveyor, which feeds downstream belt conveyors or processing equipment.
Modern bridge-type scraper reclaimers are equipped with PLC-based control systems, sensors, and variable frequency drives (VFDs) to enable automated, safe, and efficient operation.
The working process of a bridge-type scraper reclaimer can be summarized in the following steps:
Positioning: The bridge moves to the designated reclaiming area along rails or a circular track.
Scraping: The scraper chain is activated, and scraper blades penetrate the material pile under gravity and mechanical force.
Material Collection: Bulk material is dragged toward the center or discharge end of the bridge.
Discharge: Material falls onto the discharge conveyor and is transported out of the storage yard.
Continuous Operation: The bridge advances gradually, ensuring uniform reclaiming and minimizing material segregation.
This continuous reclaiming process provides a steady and controlled material flow, which is essential for stable downstream production.
Bridge-type scraper reclaimers offer several technical and operational benefits:
High Reclaiming Efficiency: Capable of continuous operation with stable output capacity.
Uniform Material Flow: Reduces material segregation and improves product quality.
Strong Adaptability: Suitable for various bulk materials and storage yard layouts.
High Automation Level: Supports remote control, automatic sequencing, and integration with plant DCS systems.
Low Operating Cost: Simple mechanical structure leads to reduced maintenance requirements and long service life.
Bridge-type scraper reclaimers are widely used in:
Cement plants (limestone and clinker storage yards)
Thermal power plants (coal yards)
Steel plants (ore and flux storage)
Ports and terminals (bulk cargo handling)
Mining and mineral processing facilities
With decades of experience in bulk material handling equipment, Dadi provides customized bridge-type scraper reclaimer solutions tailored to different industries and project requirements. By combining advanced engineering design, strict quality control, and modern manufacturing processes, Dadi delivers equipment that emphasizes durability, efficiency, and operational safety.
Backed by a strong technical team and a complete service system, Dadi supports customers throughout the entire project lifecycle—from design and manufacturing to installation guidance and after-sales support. Learn more about Dadi’s company background and capabilities at:
https://en.cndadiem.com/about.html
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Bridge-type scraper reclaimers are suitable for coal, limestone, iron ore, clinker, bauxite, gypsum, and other bulk materials with good flow characteristics.
A scraper reclaimer provides more uniform reclaiming and lower dust generation, while a bucket wheel reclaimer typically offers higher instantaneous capacity but with more complex mechanical structures.
Yes. Modern systems support PLC control, remote operation, automatic reclaiming programs, and integration with plant-wide control systems.
Key factors include material properties, scraper speed, pile geometry, bridge travel speed, and conveyor capacity.
With proper design, operation, and maintenance, the service life can exceed 20 years.
Bridge-type scraper reclaimers are an indispensable solution for efficient and reliable bulk material reclaiming. Their robust design, continuous working principle, and high automation potential make them ideal for modern industrial storage yards. By partnering with experienced manufacturers like Dadi, operators can achieve optimized material handling performance, reduced downtime, and long-term operational value.
How Bridge‑Type Scraper Reclaimers Improve Material Homogenization in Bulk Storage Yards
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