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Conveyor Chains

Conveyor chains are used to transport unit loads and bulk goods. International Chain Company offers a wide range of conveyor chains for a variety of purposes. Bush conveyor chains are often used for conveying tasks involving long distances and relatively low speeds. Rotary chains for heavy-duty applications feature cranked links for greater elasticity and improved cushioning of violent impacts. Most conveyor chains used in industry are not standard versions, and International Chain Company delivers conveyor chains that are custom-built to individual customer specifications.

Attachment chain is a speciality at ICC Short-pitch transmission precision roller and bush chains, includes K and M attachments, and extended pin attachments it should be noted that there are a number of industrial chain manufacturers with alternative dimension for K and M chain attachments and the options for extended pin lengths and diameters is limitless.

K chain attachment can be fitted to the outer and inner links of a chain; plates are angled and have one or two holes. The chain can be fitted over to run external of the chain allowing for a wide variety component to be attached precisely. goods to be conveyed pushed or pulled at the same level of the chain.

Extended pins can be fitted on both or single pitches of the chain and can be provided with different pin diameters and special shapes, holes and grooves. It is common and cost effective to use duplex and triplex pins. Pins from connecting links have groove spring clips which can be used to secure large rollers or other components which may be attached to the chain.

Conveyor chains are crucial components in material handling systems, designed to transport products or materials efficiently from one location to another. They consist of a series of interconnected links that can handle heavy loads and are often used in manufacturing, assembly lines, and distribution centers.
Types of Conveyor Chains
  • Roller Chains: Commonly used for power transmission, made of a series of rollers that rotate around a sprocket.
  • Block Chains: Often used in inclined or vertical applications; they consist of block-shaped links.
  • Plate Chains: Used in heavy-duty applications; these chains have flat plates that allow for stable load support.
  • Pin Chains: Features a pin that runs through a series of connected links, allowing flexibility and strength.
  • Modular Plastic Chains: Made of plastic, they are lighter and resistant to corrosion; commonly used in food processing and packaging.
Key Components
  • Links: Individual components that make up the chain.
  • Pins: Connect links and allow rotation.
  • Sprockets: Gear-like wheels that the chain loops around, facilitating movement.
  • Guides: Assist in the alignment and support of the chain during operation.
Measurements and Specifications
  • Pitch: The distance between the centers of adjacent links, typically measured in inches or millimeters. Common pitches include 1/2", 3/4", and 1".
  • Example: For a 1" pitch roller chain, the center-to-center distance between the rollers is 1 inch.
  • Width: The width of the chain, measured from the outer edges of the side plates.
  • Example: A standard roller chain may have a width of 0.75 inches.
  • Working Load Limit (WLL): The maximum load the chain can safely carry.
  • Example: A chain with a WLL of 2,000 lbs should not be subjected to loads exceeding this limit.
  • Strength: The tensile strength of the chain, often measured in pounds or newtons.
  • Example: A heavy-duty chain may have a tensile strength of 10,000 lbs.
Calculation of Load Capacity
  • To determine the load capacity of a conveyor chain, you can use the following formula:
  • Load Capacity=WLL × Number of Chains
Chain assembly, and machining of Parts
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Design Elements

Standard Scraper Chains

ICC can provide a range of conveyor chains with attachments fitting metal scrapers. Our standard scraper conveyor chain features a riveted construction, hardened and tempered link plates and case-hardened pins and bushes. The chain also features anti-rotation flats on the ends to improve efficiency and minimise wear. Welded pins and bushes and higher specification side plate materials can also be supplied for more demanding applications.

  • Chain Links
  • Construction: Links are typically constructed from steel and can be designed in various shapes, including oval, round, or flat profiles.
  • Interconnection: Links are connected by pins, which allow for rotational movement and flexibility in operation.
Scraper Attachments
Types of Scrapers:
  • Conventional Scrapers: Designed for general applications, typically featuring a flat edge for effective material movement.
  • Specialized Scrapers: Custom shapes for specific materials (e.g., wedge-shaped for heavy clays).
  • Attachment Method: Scrapers can be bolted, welded, or snap-fitted onto the chain links.
Chain Pitch
  • Definition: The distance between the centers of adjacent links, influencing the chain's strength and load capacity.
  • Standard Sizes: Common pitches range from 1 inch to 2 inches, with custom sizes available based on application.
Types of Scraper Chains
Single-Strand Chains
  • Use Case: Best for lighter loads and simpler conveyor designs.
  • Design: Typically simpler, with a single row of links.
Double-Strand Chains
  • Use Case: Suitable for heavy-duty applications requiring higher load capacity.
  • Design: Two parallel rows of links providing increased strength and stability.
Heavy-Duty Chains
  • Use Case: Designed for extreme environments, such as mining and heavy industrial application
  • Features: Thicker links, reinforced connections, and often heat-treated for added strength.
Material Selection
Steel Alloys
  • High Carbon Steel: Commonly used for its strength and wear resistance.
  • Alloy Steels: Can be alloyed with elements like chromium and nickel for enhanced toughness and corrosion resistance.
Stainless Steel
  • Corrosion Resistance: Ideal for applications in corrosive environments, such as food processing and chemical handling.
  • Grades: Common grades include 304 and 316 stainless steel.
Applications
Mining
  • Function: Used in haulage systems to transport ore and coal from extraction points to processing areas.
  • Features: Often includes wear-resistant coatings for durability.
Agriculture
  • Function: Employed in grain handling systems, including silos and elevators.
  • Benefits: Efficient movement of bulk agricultural products.
Waste Management
  • Function: Used in conveyor systems for municipal solid waste, recycling, and composting.
  • Importance: Reliable performance under heavy loads and abrasive materials.
Manufacturing and Assembly Lines
  • Function: Integrated into conveyor systems for efficient material handling.
  • Design: Can be customized to specific layouts and production requirements.
Maintenance and Inspection
Lubrication
  • Types of Lubricants: Grease and oils are common, with options for food-grade lubricants in food processing.
  • Frequency: Regular lubrication schedules should be established based on operational hours and conditions.
Alignment
  • Importance: Proper alignment ensures even wear and reduces stress on links and scrapers.
  • Methods: Use alignment tools or visual inspections to verify the straightness of the chain path.
Wear Inspection
  • Visual Checks: Regularly inspect for wear, deformation, or cracking of links and scrapers.
  • Measurements: Use gauges to measure wear on key components, replacing them as necessary.
Operational Considerations
Load Capacity
  • Determining Factors: The type of material, chain design, and operational speed affect the load capacity.
  • Safety Factor: Always calculate and include a safety margin based on operational needs.
Speed and Efficiency
  • Operational Speed: The speed of the chain should be optimized to prevent material spillage while ensuring efficient movement.
  • Monitoring: Use sensors or visual indicators to monitor performance and identify potential issues early.
Environmental Factors
  • Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect material properties, particularly in plastics and rubber scrapers.
  • Chemical Exposure: Select materials resistant to the chemicals encountered in specific applications.
Innovations and Trends
Customization
  • Tailored Solutions: Increasing demand for custom-designed scraper chains to meet specific operational challenges.
  • Rapid Prototyping: Advances in manufacturing techniques allow for quicker iterations and more effective design modifications.
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