Conveyor Chain

Wolff Chain Drive: Your Professional Conveyor Chain Manufacturer!

Qingdao Wolff Chain Drive Co.Ltd. is located in the industrial zone of the city, covering an area of about 10,000 square meters. Our factory has multiple workshops, which are used for different production links and product manufacturing. We continue to innovate, develop new products, meet all customer requirements, and have stable delivery times.

Our Advantages

Rich Experience & Production Market

Our company has a production history of more than 30 years, and our products have won unanimous praise from customers. Wolff chains are popular in Domestic and foreign markets such as the United States, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Africa markets.

Quality Control

Our products are produced and inspected strictly in accordance with GB, AISI, ASTM, API, JIS, BS so as to control and safeguard the quality of products. We adopt strict testing standards and processes to ensure that our products meet international standards and customer requirements. We have a professional quality inspection team to conduct comprehensive inspection and testing of each production batch.

Advanced Equipment

Our factory is equipped with advanced production equipment and technology, including automated production lines, CNC machine tools, laser cutting machines, etc. These equipment can efficiently complete the manufacturing and processing of products and improve production efficiency.

High Quality Product

All our products fully comply with international standards such as ISO\DIN\ANSI\BS\JIS. Wolff has successfully passed ISO9001 quality management system, SGS inspection and BV inspection certification.

Double Pitch Conveyor Chains
Double pitch conveyor chains are a type of conveyor chain that have a pitch (the distance between roller centers) that is twice the standard pitch of a regular conveyor chain. These chains are...
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Hollow Pin Conveyor Chain
Hollow pin conveyor chain is a type of conveyor chain that consists of hollow pins that are interconnected to form a continuous chain. The hollow pins allow for the easy attachment of various...
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Driving Machine Industrial Chain
Driving Machine Industrial Chain refer to chains dedicated to industrial production and transportation. It is a mechanical component that connects and transmits power and is commonly used in...
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Heavy Duty Drive Chain
A heavy duty drive chain is a type of chain designed to transmit power under demanding and high-load conditions. It is commonly used in applications such as industrial machinery, construction...
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Drive Roller Chains
Drive roller chains are a type of mechanical chain used to transmit mechanical power in machinery. They consist of a series of interconnected links, typically made of carbon steel, that are...
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Introduction to Conveyor Chain

A conveyor chain is chain that has been designed specifically for chain conveyor systems. It consists of a series of journal bearings that are held together by constraining link plates. Each bearing consists of a pin and a bush on which the chain roller revolves.

Types of Conveyor Chain

Hollow Bearing Pin Chain

Hollow bearing pin chain allows attachments to be bolted through the hollow bearing pins. Attachments may be tightly fixed or held in a 'free' manner.

Solid Bearing Pin Chain

Solid bearing pin chain has the same dimensions as hollow bearing pin chain but is more robust and thus suitable for more arduous conveyor applications.

Deep Link Chain

Deep link chain has deeper side plates than the normal chain plates and so provides a continuous carrying edge above the roller periphery. Deep link chain comes in solid and hollow bearing pin varieties.

Drop Forged Chain

Drop forged chain (also known as en-masse conveyor chain or scraper chain) is already fitted with attachments that have been welded directly onto the chain links.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Conveyor Chain

Load Capacity
The first step is to determine the load capacity the conveyor chain needs to withstand. For lighter loads, you can opt for lightweight chains, while heavier loads require heavy-duty or specially reinforced chains.

Speed and Frequency
If your application involves high operating speeds or frequent cycling, it's crucial to select chains with higher strength and reliable sealing capabilities. This often means choosing chains made from superior materials such as stainless steel or engineering plastics.

Environmental Conditions
Consider the environmental conditions in which the chain will operate, including temperature, humidity, and chemical corrosion factors. When operating in humid or highly corrosive environments, you can opt for waterproof and corrosion-resistant chains, such as stainless steel chains.

Length and Connection Methods
Choose the appropriate chain length based on the length of material transport required. Additionally, select compatible connection methods, such as pin shafts, sprockets, or gears, to ensure smooth and efficient operation.

Cost
Lastly, consider cost factors. Conveyor chains vary significantly in price depending on materials and specifications. It's essential to weigh cost against factors like load capacity, speed, and environmental conditions to make an informed decision.

How to Install Conveyor Chain

The width of the trough need not be more than ½" wider, on each side, than the overall width of the conveyor chain including attachments. Chains should not wander from side to side.

The wear strip must be full width of the conveyor so that the chain runs on the side-bar; the barrel of the chain should not support the chain.

Chains that run in a trough should be at the correct height. Half the height of the sidebar is a good rule of thumb. If the chain is too low, the product on the chain will be slowed in movement. Conversely, a chain running too high in the trough can easily be forced out of the trough by side loads.

The root line of the sprocket or drum should be approximately ½" above the level of the conveyor wear strip. This allows the chain to be lifted slightly as it contacts the sprocket. The benefit is immediate contact with the sprocket tooth, rather than 1/3 the way around the drum, and will improve chain life. A low root line relationship between the sprocket and wear strip causes the chain to be pulled down across the end of the wear strip. This causes premature wear on the sidebars and often, sidebar failure.

Be certain the chain has the correct amount of slack on the return. A good rule of thumb for conveyor chain is 5 - 10% of the sprocket centers depending on the size and weight of the chain.

Pay as much attention to the chain return as to load side. Use a trough if possible. If not, again, the correct amount of slack is important. Too much slack can cause the chain to sway or jump - a condition that increases chain wear.
When installing sprocket assemblies it is critical to ensure the sprocket is aligned to the conveyor. Slight misalignment will result in uneven loading on the sprocket tooth face and chain barrels.

When aligning the sprocket assembly the first check is ensuring Positive Lift then measure to ensure the position on the left side and the right side are exactly the same. This is to ensure the sprocket is in the correct position to the conveyor. After 1 – 2 weeks operation visual checks should be made to ensure there is no uneven wear on the conveyors chain barrels or the sprocket tooth face.

The last step is never to be forgotten for successful operation. Breaking in a new chain is a very important procedure. The chain should be run, no load, for a few hours (6-8). This will smooth up the chain running surfaces as well as the wear strip and the sprocket tooth face. It is advisable to have a film of clean water on the chain during the break-in period and for that matter all the time. This procedure also allows the leading side of the rivet to polish up and "seat" properly in the I.D. of the barrel. Water is an excellent lubricant because it will carry away the dirt generated by the chain rubbing the wear strip and sprocket. Use a fire hose to wash down during the first hour then fine spray on the tail end is enough.

Maintenance of Conveyor Chain

Maintenance Schedule
First of all, to ensure proper tension, lubrication, and alignment, you may want to service and inspect them. They can last up to 15,000 hours if inspected regularly. It’s better if your oil changes and schedule filter every 3 months. The cleaning of bigger parts on the other hand such as replacement, machine lubrication, and shafts of worn or damaged side plats and sprockets should be done on an annual basis.
Especially if you have installed the conveyor chains, following the maintenance schedule is paramount, in the mining and construction industry.

Wise Lubrication
Conveyor chains and drives for smooth operation should be free of dust and moisture. Requiring petroleum-based oil, Most of these systems are there. It’s not a good idea to opt for heavy oils and heavy greases. The reason is that they can’t lubricate the system properly and are overly stiff. Some common ways of lubricating the conveyor chains, given below are some points. Some of them are listed below:
Disk lubrication.
Stream lubrication.
Manual lubrication.
Drip lubrication.
The right method can be used Based on the chain and power speed. You must lubricate the system properly for enjoying all the benefits and reducing wear and tear.

Heat-Treated Parts
To improve the mechanical components, Heat treatment can be used. Therefore, for best results, manufacturers control the treatment methods. In other words, it’s important to perform proper heat treatment to reduce wear and tear.
The two primary parts of component heat transfer are Case depth and hardness. As far as durability and resistance are concerned, this plays a great role. The parts may break while working due to brittleness if the depth is too much.

Make Sure There is Tension and Proper Alignment
Make sure you perform the required maintenance and check the chain tension and slack span. However, if the wear and tear go beyond the functional limits you may need to replace the entire chain.
Also, to the worn one, as it can damage the drive, you may not want to connect new chains. To get a lot of wear and tear, misaligned sprockets can also cause the link plates of the roller chain.

Checking the Primary Parts
Typically, two main parts that go through wear and tear are there in conveyor chains: chain and sprockets. Due to these very results and reasons, Chain stretching happens in the complete replacement of the chain and sprockets. Therefore, you should inspect conveyor chains for any broken cracks, deformation, and parts.

FAQ

Q: What factors may influence the lifespan of a conveyor chain?

A: Load Bearing Capacity: The weight borne by the conveyor impacts its longevity.
Operational Environment: Extreme temperatures or exposure to corrosive substances can shorten the chain’s lifespan.
Maintenance Regimen: Regular maintenance and care play a pivotal role in extending the life of conveyor chains.

Q: What are the wear mechanism of conveyor chains?

A: Wear is a primary threat to conveyor chain longevity and typically occurs through three main mechanisms:
Pin and Bushing Contact: Wear is induced by contact between the pin and bushing during sprocket engagement.
Roller and Bushing Contact: Wear occurs due to contact between the rollers and bushing.
Chain and Side Plate Interaction: Wear may result from the chain contacting guide rails.

Q: What are the methods used for lubricating conveyor chains?

A: Manual Lubrication
To manually lubricate your conveyor chains, periodically apply oil with a brush or spout can once every eight hours, or at longer intervals if adequate for the application.
Drip Lubrication
The drip method refers to a lubrication method in which oil is dripped between the link plate or sidebar edges—generally at a rate of twenty drops every minute.
Oil Bath Lubrication
Oil bath lubrication involves running a short section of chain through oil, with the level extending to the pitch-line of the chain at its lowest operating point.
Slinger Disk Lubrication
Slinger disk lubrication consists of a rotating disk picking up oil from the casing’s bottom and “slinging” it against a collector plate.
Oil Steam Lubrication
Oil steam lubrication involves pumping pressurized oil to nozzles that deliver steamed spray onto the lower span of the chain from inside the loop.

Q: What are different types of conveyor chains?

A: Hollow bearing pin chains permit application-specific attachments to be affixed through the hollow bearing pins. These attachments can be either affixed tightly or loosely affixed in a “free” manner.
Solid bearing pin chains possess comparable dimensions to the hollow bearing pin chain. However, solid bearing pin chains are fuller and thicker, making them appropriate for more rigorous conveyor needs.
Deep link chains possess side plates with more depth than standard chain plates. They also provide a steady carrying edge located atop the periphery of the roller. Deep link chains are configured with both hollow bearing pins and solid bearing pins.
Drop forged chains—otherwise known as en-masse conveyor chains, or scraper chains—come pre-fitted with tool attachments that are welded straight onto the chain links themselves.

Q: What failures may occur in conveyor chains?

A: There are three common ways in which conveyor chains fail:
Tensile Failure
Tensile failure can result from the conveyor chains becoming too stretched, resulting in the chains failing to work as intended, or snapping apart altogether.
Fatigue Failure
When the conveyor chain is overloaded with cyclical tension at a load under the yield strength, microscopic cracks develop under the excess of weight in the link plates or sidebars. These cracks can enlarge, causing fatigue failure, which leads to incorrect function and eventual breakage.
Wear Failure
Wear failure is a result of abrasion and corrosion that causes the conveyor chains to elongate without properly stretching. This most commonly results in the chain becoming too large to fit the conveyor system’s sprockets, or a failure to maintain correct spacing and timing. Wear occurring between the roller and bushing, between the link plates, or between sidebars and guides will ultimately result in chain malfunction.

Q: What are the advantages of hollow pin conveyor chain?

A: Hollow pin conveyor chains are a type of roller chain that features hollow pins that can be used for a variety of industrial applications. These chains offer several advantages over other types of chains, making them a popular choice for manufacturers and machinery operators.
One of the primary advantages of hollow pin conveyor chains is their flexibility. The hollow pins allow for easy attachment of custom or specialized attachments, which can be beneficial in a variety of industrial applications. Additionally, the hollow pins make it easy to clean and maintain the chain, which can improve its longevity and overall performance.
Hollow pin conveyor chains are also durable and strong, making them an ideal choice for heavy-duty applications. They can withstand high loads and operate in harsh environments, making them suitable for use in industries such as mining, agriculture, and construction. Additionally, hollow pin conveyor chains are resistant to wear and tear, which can help reduce maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Another advantage of hollow pin conveyor chains is their ability to operate at high speeds. The design of the chain allows for smooth and consistent movement, even at high velocities. This can be beneficial in applications where speed is critical, such as assembly lines or conveyor systems.
Hollow pin conveyor chains are also easy to install and replace, which can save time and money for manufacturers. The pins can be easily removed and replaced, allowing for quick repairs or maintenance as needed.
In addition, hollow pin conveyor chains are versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. They are commonly used in conveyor systems, assembly lines, and other industrial machinery, and can be customized to meet specific requirements.
In conclusion, hollow pin chains offer several advantages for industrial applications. They are flexible, durable, strong, and can operate at high speeds, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Additionally, they are easy to install and replace, which can save time and money for manufacturers.

Q: What materials are used in conveyor chains?

A: The use of different grades and hardness of steel to manufacture various chain components provide the best combinations to increase strength and improve wear resistance. Low to medium carbon and alloy steels, in conjunction with various heat treatment methods, result in good mechanical properties, wear resistance and hardness.
Conveyor chains are made from alloy steels or cast iron depending on the chain series and type. Stainless steel is also available for corrosive environments or applications where there are frequent wash-downs e.g.food, beverage and pharmaceutical applications.

Q: What should be considered when choosing conveyor chains?

A: When selecting a conveyor chain for a specific application, many aspects of the conveyor system have to be considered. There are no general rules that cover all types of chains (long pitch, roller, bush, steel, cast etc.), even though the selection procedures are similar .
Typically aspects that need to be considered are:
Working load (chain pull).
Chain speed.
Pitch requirement (particularly important for attachment chains such a elevators).
Type and spacing of attachment (if any).
Chain length (centres), or lengths for multi-strand applications.
Lubrication (type and method of application).
Environmental issues (such as dirt, temperature extremes, chemicals, contamination, hygiene requirements etc .)
Available space.
Required chain through-life.

Q: What is hollow pin roller chain?

A: Hollow pin chains are another type of roller chain used in conveyor applications, particularly in cross-rod-type setups where attachments are infrequently needed. They come in single-pitch and double-pitch variations, with the latter offering options for small- or large-diameter rollers. The hollow pins in their design allow for easy customization and attachment addition, facilitating straightforward material installation and removal on the conveyor. These chains are advantageous in applications requiring frequent assembly and disassembly. Their open-pin design distinguishes them from standard roller chains, providing versatility to accommodate various materials, shapes, and sizes. This feature, coupled with easy cleaning, makes them suitable for industries with stringent hygiene requirements, such as food processing. Careful consideration of factors like load capacity and operational needs is essential for optimal performance in conveyor applications.

Q: What are the benefits of roller conveyor chains?

A: Improved Efficiency with Roller Conveyor Chain
Roller conveyor chains have proven to significantly improve efficiency in industrial settings. With their smooth and reliable movement, these chains facilitate the seamless transportation of materials, products, and components across various stages of the production process. By reducing manual handling and streamlining workflows, roller conveyor chains help businesses save time, increase output, and meet demanding deadlines.
Enhanced Durability for Long-Term Use
When it comes to industrial equipment, durability is paramount. Roller conveyor chains are designed to withstand the toughest operating conditions and heavy loads. Constructed from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or carbon steel, these chains exhibit exceptional strength and resistance to wear and tear. This durability ensures that the equipment operates smoothly and consistently, minimizing downtime and optimizing productivity.
Safety Advantages of Roller Conveyor Chain
Safety is a top priority in any industrial environment. Roller conveyor chains offer several safety advantages that contribute to a secure working environment. The design of these chains minimizes the risk of accidents, such as material spillage or machine malfunctions, by providing a reliable and stable platform for material transportation. Additionally, roller conveyor chains can incorporate safety features like automatic stop mechanisms and emergency shut-off switches, further enhancing worker safety.
Cost-Effectiveness of Roller Conveyor Chain
Implementing roller conveyor chains can lead to significant cost savings for industrial equipment users. The efficient movement of materials reduces the need for manual labor, thereby lowering labor costs and improving overall productivity. Moreover, the durability and longevity of roller conveyor chains minimize the need for frequent replacements or repairs, reducing maintenance expenses in the long run. By optimizing efficiency and reducing operational costs, roller conveyor chains contribute to enhanced profitability for businesses.
Easy Maintenance and Versatility
Roller conveyor chains offer another advantage through their easy maintenance requirements and versatility. With simple cleaning procedures and regular lubrication, these chains can be kept in optimal condition, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operations. Additionally, roller conveyor chains can be customized to suit specific industrial applications, accommodating various shapes, sizes, and weights of materials. This versatility allows businesses to adapt the technology to their unique requirements and maximize its benefits.

As one of the leading conveyor chain manufacturers and suppliers in China, we warmly welcome you to wholesale cheap conveyor chain from our factory. All customized products are with high quality and low price. Contact us for quotation.

Conveyor Chain