What is Attachment Chain?
With single or double holes; The attachments Makelsan manufacture in curved or vertical form provide ease of use and freedom of design to manufacturers in plant and machinery construction. We produce these attachments in carbon steel, zinc, chrome plated, or stainless steel.
Attachment chains are the unknown heroes of the industrial world. Especially when it comes to production lines, they are essential. Whether you’re a food and beverage manufacturer, pharmaceutical company, packaging plant, or even an automobile parts manufacturer, you might need an attachment chain for your machines. These chains come in a variety of standard and custom attachments and can be tailored to suit your specific needs.
It is also possible to combine different designs of attachments mounted on a single, duplex or triplex chain. Designed in accordance with the needs of the production line, we apply the attachments on one side or on both sides of the chain or mount them to the chain at intervals according to the needs of our customers.
What are the Uses of Attachment Chains?
Attachment chains serve many functions across different industries, mainly involving the safe and efficient transportation of goods. They are typically used in conveyors, where heavy or bulk items need stable movement along an assembly line. Additionally, they are beneficial in environments where objects must be positioned, rotated, or transferred with great accuracy, such as in packaging and manufacturing facilities.
Types of Attachment Chains
Attachment chain types include single-pitch (single pitch or single hole) chains, which are suitable for carrying light products and materials, and double-pitch chains, which have a larger contact surface and can carry heavier and larger volume loads. There are many types of attachment chains, ranging from extended pin types to chains with special plates or hooks. Each type has its function and area of use.
For example, the common A attachment chain, which has a folded link plate that runs along one side of the chain, the K2 attachment chain used in double pitch conveyor chains and carding machines, the K1 attachment chain used in small high precision conveyors, the GK-1 attachment chain, which has an extended pin system where the extended pins are subjected to bending and shearing forces, and is used to carry high weights.
Single-pitch chains are suitable for conveying lightweight products and materials. Double-pitch chains, on the other hand, have a wider contact surface, making them more stable when moving heavier products or larger volume loads. The A attachment is the most commonly used attachment, having a folded link plate that extends out on one side of the chain, forming an L shape. When A attachments are installed on both sides of the chain, they form a K attachment. Slats or jigs can then be installed over the chain. Variants of the A and K attachments are the SA and SK, where the link plate is extended. K2 attachment chain is provided with carding machinery for industrial chains which are tested on various parameters to ascertain their quality and authenticity while K1 chain attachment is for high-precision small conveyors.
The GK-1 has been developed in response to customer demand. The GK-1 attachment features an extended pin system, where the extended pins are subjected to bending and shearing forces. The pin design allows the fitment to be attached between two parallel chains without chipping the link plates. In addition, it can easily be cleaned of any oil or other dirt particles. It also produces a small amount of friction force during operation that helps to avoid loosening or slipping of the fitment when operating at low speed; this effectively improves product quality. Due to this ability, this type of attachment is often used when cross rods with larger diameters than the maximum applicable diameters are used or when large masses need to be conveyed.
An attachment chain conveyor system is a conveyor that allows you to place products in the exact spot you desire. These are used for applications where precise placement and positioning are needed to get the perfect setup.
Chain attachment links according to the attachment roller chain:
- Roller Chains with M Attachments One or Two Bore Holes
- Roller Chains with K Attachments One or Two Bore Holes
- Roller Chains with extended pins
Attachment chains are a crucial aspect of modern conveyor technology. They are durable and reliable, and they offer an excellent alternative to other types of chains. If you’re starting a new plant or modernizing an older one, you should try to see if attachment chains will be a good fit for the application. Get more information on Makelsan to ensure your production efficiency.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Attachment Chains?
Attachment chains offer various benefits but also have a few limitations:
Advantages:
- Enhanced Productivity: They make transportation of goods smoother and faster.
- Extended Lifespan: Built with robust materials, these chains have long service lives.
- Reduced Maintenance: When properly maintained, attachment chains require minimal upkeep, reducing downtime.
Disadvantages:
- Higher Initial Cost: Attachment chains are often more expensive than standard chains due to their specialized design.
- Regular Maintenance: While minimal, neglecting maintenance can reduce their efficiency and lifespan.
- Replacement Complexity: Custom attachment chains may be difficult to replace, requiring specific expertise or resources.
What to Consider When Choosing Attachment Chains?
When selecting an attachment chain, certain criteria must be taken into account:
- Load Capacity: Ensure that the chain can handle the weight and volume of materials to be transported.
- Material Type: Chains made from stainless steel or heat-treated metals are preferred for durability and resistance to environmental factors.
- Environment: Chains that will be used in extreme conditions, such as high humidity or intense heat, need to be resistant to corrosion.
- Attachment Type: Different attachment types suit different applications, so ensure that the chosen attachments fit your operational needs.
- Supplier Reputation: Choose a supplier known for producing reliable, high-quality chains that meet industry standards.
How to Maintain and Lubricate Attachment Chains?
Maintaining attachment chains is essential for longevity and efficiency:
- Regular Cleaning: Remove dirt, debris, and grease buildup to prevent excess wear and tear on the chain.
- Lubrication: Apply a high-quality lubricant periodically to reduce friction and extend chain life. Focus on all joints and rollers for maximum impact.
- Inspection: Routinely inspect the chain for signs of wear, damage, or stretching. Replace any worn-out links or rollers to prevent unexpected failures.
- Alignment Checks: Ensure the chain remains aligned to avoid uneven stress on the links and rollers.
A consistent maintenance routine helps maximize the performance and lifespan of attachment chains, ensuring they run smoothly and with minimal issues.
What are the Prices of Attachment Chains in 2024?
As of 2024, the price of attachment chains varies based on type, material, customization, and supplier. For general-purpose chains, prices can start from $50 per meter for standard versions and can increase significantly for heavy-duty or customized chains, which may cost $300 or more per meter. Additionally, factors like rising material costs and global demand impact pricing. Buyers can expect these fluctuations and should consider negotiating with suppliers for bulk purchases or long-term contracts to manage expenses effectively.
What are the Sizes of Attachment Chains?
Attachment chains come in various sizes, typically defined by pitch (distance between roller centers), width, and link length. The size you choose depends on the operational requirements, such as the load weight and the distance it will travel. Standard sizes range from small chains with a 1/4″ pitch, suitable for light-duty tasks, to larger chains with a 2″ pitch, used in heavy-duty industries.
Consulting with a supplier ensures that the right size and configuration are selected based on the load, speed, and specific needs of the application.
To examine the examples of the attachment chains, see industrial chains from Makelsan for more detailed information.
Attachment Chains FAQ
The roller chain attachment and other types of attachment chains are typically used for applications where the main drive or primary chain is too long to suit the job. The attachment chain can be used to connect two different-sized drives together or even to connect one drive to another drive.
The K attachment was designed to give increased flexibility to the standard M attachment by allowing movement in two planes instead of one. The M attachment was developed in 1924 as part of focusing on developing high-quality roller chain attachments. Roller chains with attachments have been used extensively in industry ever since their introduction.
Many industries have developed unique chain link attachment and roller chain attachment link types to overcome particular challenges in their market.
The wood industry uses toothed and serrated plates for molding and trim. These attachment chain links are able to handle wet, heavy products with ease and efficiency. The board conveyance and grading plants use plastic and rubber-topped chain which enables high-speed operation with minimum damage to the products being processed.
The plastics industry uses many types of solid top attachments that allow for high-speed operation without any product damage. Other industries like mining, quarrying, food processing, and paper mills need to use chains that can withstand extreme heat and pressure conditions without causing damage or failure to the equipment or product being transported or handled by the attachment conveyor system.
Food processing plants use attachment chains on a daily basis. Food products are often packed in bulk containers, which need to be moved from one point to another in the facility. The attachment chains used for this purpose must be able to withstand the high levels of heat and pressure that are present in the food industry.
The packaging industry also uses attachment chains extensively throughout its processes. Bagging and foiling systems are used to package foods, like cereals or snack foods, as well as other products such as confectionary items. In order for these processes to run smoothly and efficiently, they must be able to handle high speeds while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
The pharmaceutical industry uses attachment chains in the manufacture of drugs and medicines. These chains often have to operate at very low temperatures because of the nature of their contents and must be able to withstand constant pressure while being handled manually by workers who may not always have perfect hand-eye coordination when working with delicate materials like these.
Yes, attachment chains are highly durable and designed to handle heavy loads and demanding environments. They are manufactured with robust materials such as stainless steel and heat-treated metals, which make them resilient against wear, corrosion, and extreme temperatures. With proper maintenance, attachment chains offer extended service life, even under challenging conditions.
Attachment chains work by integrating specialized attachments or rollers onto the chain links, which connect and interact with machinery to transport, lift, or position materials. These attachments enable the chain to perform specific functions, such as gripping or holding items securely. The chain’s movement is typically driven by gears or sprockets, allowing controlled, consistent material handling.
To determine the correct size of an attachment chain, measure its pitch (distance between the centers of adjacent rollers), width, and the diameter of the rollers. You should also consider the chain’s load capacity requirements based on your application. Consulting with a supplier or using an attachment chain sizing guide ensures you select the best fit for your specific needs.
Attachment chains are commonly made from durable materials such as stainless steel, alloy steel, and carbon steel. These materials offer high strength and corrosion resistance, which is essential for applications in harsh environments. Some chains may also have protective coatings or finishes to further enhance durability and longevity in specific industries.
Yes, attachment chains are designed to be long-lasting, provided they are used and maintained properly. High-quality materials and regular maintenance, such as cleaning, lubrication, and timely repairs, contribute to their longevity. On average, well-maintained chains can last several years, making them a reliable investment for industries requiring consistent performance.
Maintenance and repair of attachment chains should include regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris, applying lubrication to reduce friction, and inspecting for wear or damage. Alignment should be checked to ensure even operation, and any worn or damaged links or rollers should be promptly replaced to prevent failures. Regular, proactive maintenance keeps the chains performing efficiently and extends their service life.
