Grain / Feed Auger Sock Chute Drop Tube Spout (Standard Duty) - 18oz Vinyl

What is an auger sock?

Auger sock is a cylinder shaped fabric panel that is attached to the end of an auger’s discharge tube to direct flow of material. Auger sock is the most common name for it but many shops refer to it as a loadout chute, or a discharge boot, or a drop tube spout. Auger boots help guide grain, feed, or seed during loadout to reduce dust and minimize spills. Fabric auger sleeves are often used on bulk haul trailers carrying poultry feed, seed tenders, and grain carts. Feed mill plants use auger socks to transfer pellets from the mixer to the silo, during packaging processes, and also while loading for bulk haul.

What size do I need?

Auger socks are a round shape and are sold by diameter which is the distance straight across the pipe. We build them slightly oversized so you will purchase one to match the size of the pipe and we will add the extra material needed for it to slip on. If the end of your discharge tube measures 10” across please select the 10” size loadout chute for a nice snug fit. The website only lists whole inch options but custom tarps are what we do so if after measuring you learn a custom size needed just let us know and we will design one to fit it perfectly.

How long is the auger sock?

Our standard drop tube spout measures 24 inches from top to bottom regardless of the diameter, weight, or hem style selected. At least two inches of that will be overlapping the discharge pipe and it can be overlapped further to reduce this length. In our experience two foot provides plenty of clearance while loading but is not long enough to get pushed around by wind. Again, custom tarps are our specialty so call or message us for custom lengths.

Which weight is right for me?

We offer Standard Duty, Heavy Duty, or Xtreme Duty auger socks. About 85% of the auger socks we build are Standard Duty. What we call Standard Duty is constructed using 18 ounce vinyl coated polyester which is the same fabric truck drivers use to cover loads of steel or lumber being hauled on a flatbed. Truck drivers travel at interstate speeds in harsh climates covering abrasive cargo and despite these conditions get several years of usage so don’t let the “Standard Duty” label lead you into believing this is not tough stuff.

Our “Heavy Duty” socks are made the exact same way but are constructed out of 22oz fabric which features 700 more polyester yarns per square foot plus has a thicker heavier vinyl coating. This boosts abrasion resistance by 50% plus increases tear strength by 45%. For most applications it is way overkill but for highly abrasive materials will increase life expectancy of the sock.

Xtreme Duty auger socks are also constructed out of 22oz fabric but we cut it twice the height needed, fold it half, and then sew it into the cylinder shape. The result is a sock that is two layers of 22oz fabric thick from top to bottom. This extra thickness makes it so stiff that it will stand up on its own. These are typically used in plants on applications that are difficult to access creating the longest lasting chute available.

Many of our competitors offer auger socks constructed out of 8oz nylon fabric which is what you would typically find on a backpack or duffle bag. First this fabric is not designed for use outdoors, second it is not waterproof, and third it tears easily which quickly unravels once torn. This fabric costs more for drastically reduced durability so we will never understand the logic behind using it to create an auger sock.

Bottom raw Edge vs Bottom 2” Hem

About 75% of the auger socks we make have a raw edge across the bottom. That raw edge is smooth and flexible allowing material to naturally flow past it. This is ideal for stationary applications of materials with little abrasion. We recommend adding a 2 inch webbing reinforced hem across the bottom if being used on bulk haul trailers. The constant fluttering during transport can cause a raw edge to wear prematurely. Adding a bottom hem is also a good idea if using highly abrasive materials like gravel or bark.

Do I need Grommets?

Probably not. If the outlet tube of your auger has four nuts welded on it select the add four grommet feature. We will position them on the four axes an equal distance apart. For everyone else who is using a clamp, band, or flat bar to secure the auger sock those grommets will just be in the way.

Is it inside out?

Our fabric has a matte side and a glossy side. The matte side has a thicker layer of vinyl which is typically the finish side of the product. On auger socks we face the matte side inward because of its higher abrasion resistance. The glossy side and hems will face outwards which is backwards from all of our other products.

Where is it made?

Everything we sell is made in the USA. Cullman, Alabama to be exact. Our team is sweating but this is not a sweatshop. That’s hard work mixed with Alabama humidity on Real Americans who sacrifice the best 40 hours of their week to support their family and this great country. Your decision to Buy American provides us with the privilege of rewarding these workday warriors with competitive wages, health insurance, and paid time off. Our standards for materials, workmanship, quality control, and employee wellbeing will never allow us to be the low price leader but the overall value is responsible for a century of repeat business.

Availability

Auger socks are built to order. Due to the infant possibilities of weight, size, color, hem style, and attachments it is impossible to keep every option ready for immediate shipment, but we do an excellent job of fulfilling within a week.

How many should I order?

Auger socks are produced in pairs so ideally, we would get orders for an even number but we will build as few as one. We use UPS Ground shipping which has a minimum shipping charge of $9.99. For the same shipping cost you can get one or twenty so on a sacrificial product like this ordering a dozen now will save you time and money later.