the different types of conveyor belt chains

Conveyor belt chains are continuous transport systems where chain links or plates are connected to form a surface on which materials can be moved from one point to another.

Chains can be made from a multitude of resources. The choice of the ideal material, as well as the desired design and functionality, will depend on the type of product to be transported, its weight and dimensions, the installation conditions of the belts, and the specific requirements of the production process.

The conveyor chain serves as the pivotal driving element, propelling either the conveyor belt or, in the case of a direct application, the materials themselves. The chain links engage with the sprockets, providing a secure drive mechanism that ensures the belt or products move consistently and smoothly along the system.

Plastic conveyor chains are very popular because they are lightweight, versatile, and corrosion-resistant. They are made from reinforced thermoplastic materials, contributing to an extended lifespan. As a result, they require little maintenance, lowering operating costs.

These systems are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry and on conveyors that, in one way or another, are exposed to corrosive materials. Another advantage of plastic conveyor chains is their reduced noise level compared to metal belts.

It's also worth noting that their lightweight nature causes less wear on conveyors and reduces electricity usage. Furthermore, plastic conveyor chains are easy to clean.

Despite these advantages, it's important to avoid using these belts in high-temperature environments due to plastic's low heat resistance.

Drag chains, also known as scraper chains, are designed for dragging materials along a smooth surface. Unlike roller conveyor chains that use the rolling action of wheels to reduce friction, drag chains rely on sliding motion.

Built to handle the abrasive nature of the goods they move, drag chains are typically made from high-strength, wear-resistant materials. They are designed to efficiently move large volumes of powders, grains or small lumps along the conveyor path.

These parts are versatile and can operate effectively in different configurations, whether horizontal, vertical, or inclined.

Drag chains often operate within an enclosed trough, which helps to contain the goods being moved, reducing spillage and protecting the materials from contamination.

A notable disadvantage is that maintenance can be more time-consuming and complex than other conveyor systems.

Wire mesh chains, also known as wire mesh belts or wire belt conveyors, are a type of conveying system that utilises a meshed wire fabric to transport products. These chains are especially useful in environments where a high degree of airflow is necessary or where the items being transported need to undergo a heating or cooling process while on the conveyor.

Constructed typically from steel or stainless steel, wire mesh chains can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for ovens, foundries, or baking applications. They are also very durable.

However, they are not usually used for transporting tiny items that could fall through the mesh or for products that require a flat surface for stability.

Cleated chains are designed with raised sections or cleats attached at regular intervals along the chain. The cleats provide additional grip to prevent slippage of materials, ensuring that items are transported reliably up or down an incline.

These chains are great for transporting grain or other bulk agricultural products and recyclable materials from lower to higher elevations. When selecting a cleated chain, ensure the cleats' pattern and height suit the size and type of goods transported.

Magnetic chains, as the name suggests, incorporate magnets in their structure. They are used in processes where ferromagnetic materials must be kept stable during transport, especially when it involves vertical paths.

Using magnetic adhesion reduces the need for clamps, guides, or other physical restraints, simplifying conveyor design and reducing wear and tear.

This type of chain is widely used in the automotive, recycling, packaging, and metal forming and stamping industries.

Maintenance of magnetic chains typically involves ensuring the magnets maintain their strength and are not obscured or coated with material that could reduce their effectiveness.

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