What Is a Conveyor Chain?
A conveyor chain is a critical component in conveyors, particularly those used in chain-type conveyors on production lines. Designed to meet high specifications for temperature tolerance, weight transfer, and durability, it operates in challenging conditions where belt conveyors are not suitable. Conveyor chains engage with gear-shaped parts called sprockets to facilitate the transportation of products.
Applications of Conveyor Chains
Conveyor chains are essential in environments requiring high load capacity, durability, and resistance to high temperatures, surpassing the capabilities of belt conveyors. Examples include:
1. ATC Chain/Tool Pot
Used in machining centers for storing and transporting specific tools to the spindle for exchange.
2. For Waste Incineration
Employed in waste incineration facilities to transport materials into incinerators, requiring chains with high wear resistance due to the harsh conditions.
Principle of Conveyor Chains
Operating on the same principle as roller chains, conveyor chains consist of short plates connected by pins, with rollers engaging sprockets to drive the chain. Smooth operation is ensured by a bush between the pin and roller, acting as a sliding bearing to absorb the load during sliding motions.
Conveyor Chain Structure
The structure of a conveyor chain includes:
1. Plate
Plates are subjected to tension from sprocket rotation, designed for toughness and resistance to fatigue from impact loads.
2. Pin
Pins support the load when the chain bends, requiring high shear and wear resistance.
3. Bush
Bushes absorb impacts between the chain and sprocket, necessitating toughness and wear resistance.
4. Roller
Rollers mitigate impacts with the sprocket, demanding resistance to impact and abrasion.
Types of Conveyor Chains
Conveyor chains are categorized by their shape into several types:
1. R Roller Type
The standard conveyor chain type, with rollers larger in diameter than the plate width, offering high versatility for various conveyors.
2. F Roller Type
An R roller type with a flange to prevent lateral vibration, suitable for smooth, inclined, and specific product conveyors.
3. S/M/N Roller Type
Distinguished by roller diameter sizes and pin diameter, these types are designed for specific applications like bucket elevators and flow conveyors, with a focus on shock and wear reduction.