Answer to Question #207624 in Engineering for Bonolo

Question

In your own view, evaluate how roller chains can be used as conveyor belts.

Answer 1

Conveyor chain drives are utilized to transmit power from one section of a conveyor to the next. In particular, conveyor chains distribute speed and torque by means of linked chain and sprockets. Conveyor chains are well suitable for this task as the sprocket’s teeth engage with the roller chain enabling them to transmit large amounts of torque without loss of energy. The sprocket’s teeth mesh within the roller chain, thereby transferring power efficiently as the sprockets make high-friction contact with the conveyor chain. While this is important for efficient and accurate rotation, it does mean that frequent lubrication of pins and the chain connecting plates is necessary.

Roller Chain drives can be designed to produce variable outputs as speed can be stepped up or decreased by applying different sized sprockets across the conveyor.

Roller chain drives are used in many types of industries to distribute a diversity of materials within the confines of a manufacturer or engineering facility’s operations. Conveyor chains are used routinely to move objects by attaching dividers, buckets, frames, or meshes to the conveyor chain. They can also be used for turning rollers which in turn would move a conveyor belt along.