Tool for cleaning the helical blade of an auger or screw-conveyor

摘要

A tool (3) comprises a central shaft (4) on which are removably mounted a number of radially projecting elements (5) in a helical formation. The radially projecting elements (5) may take the form of blades, cutting tools, digging tools, brushes and any combination thereof. In use, the tool (3) is rotated as the auger (1) is withdrawn from the ground, and the radially projecting elements (5) pass between adjacent flights (6, 6') within the blade (2), so removing any locked-in soil. Rotation of the tool (3), by means of a mechanical linkage or by an independent electric or hydraulic motor, is synchronised with rotation of the auger (1). The tool (3) may be pivotally mounted next to the auger (1) so that it may be moved near to and away from the auger. This allows radially projecting elements to be gradually introduced into the flights (6,6') and also allows the auger to bypass the cleaning tool during insertion or extraction.