Origin： China, Shandong
Plate materials: Manganese steel, carbon steel, stainless steel (304/205), engineering plastics, etc.
Plate width: 200 mm – 1,500 mm (wider widths can be achieved using double-plate chains)
Load capacity: Light duty (≥50 kg/m) , heavy duty (≥500 kg/m)
Application: Used in industries such as mining, metallurgy, waste management, food processing, electronics, and assembly etc
China chain conveyor / apron plate feeder is a type of belt conveyor that uses metal or plastic chain plates as its carrying surface. It transports materials by driving the chain plates through the cyclic motion of the chain. Due to its robust structure and high load-bearing capacity, it is widely used in industrial automation production lines.
Power Drive System (Heart)
Components: Geared reduction motor, coupling, drive shaft
Key Functions: Provides traction power; some models are equipped with a variable frequency drive for speed control, a safety coupling to prevent overload, and a backstop to prevent reverse rotation (for inclined conveyors)
Load-Bearing Traction Mechanism (Muscles and Skin)
Components: Traction Chain (Sleeve Roller Chain/Plate Chain), Chain Plates (Carbon Steel/Stainless Steel/Plastic)
Key Functions: The chain provides traction, while the chain plates directly carry the material; heavy-duty models often feature side guards to prevent material spillage
Drive and Tensioning System (Skeleton and Joints)
Components: Head drive sprocket, tail idler sprocket, screw/spring tensioning mechanism, idler rollers/guide rails
Key Functions: Drive the chain in a continuous loop, adjust chain tension to prevent tooth skipping, and support the chain to reduce friction
Frame and Auxiliary Components (Torso)
Components: Channel steel/angle steel welded frame, inlet, outlet, protective cover
Key Functions: Supports the overall structure, connects material conveying processes, ensures operational safety
Core Features: High load-bearing capacity, smooth operation, flexible layout; suitable for complex operating conditions such as heavy loads, high temperatures, and high wear.
Calculation: Precise Calculations
The core involves calculating tensile force and power to ensure proper matching of the motor and chain selection, with a safety margin of 10%–20%.
The pitch circle diameter of the sprocket determines speed and torque and must be precisely designed based on pitch and tooth count.
Manufacturing: Robust Structure
Material selection based on operating conditions: Quenched alloy steel for heavy-duty applications, 304 stainless steel for food-grade applications, and engineering plastics for light-duty applications.
Sealing for static and dynamic components: Use rubber seals for static parts; for dynamic parts, use offset chain plates or labyrinth seals to prevent leakage.
Tensioning is essential: Must be equipped with a screw or spring tensioning mechanism to prevent tooth skipping due to chain wear.
️ Control: Stable Operation
Variable-frequency speed control enables soft starts and stepless speed adjustment, avoiding impact from frequent starts and stops.
For wide-width conveyors, use multi-row chain differential drives to prevent deviation; for heavy-duty wide belts, add center guides to prevent sagging.
Smart monitoring of current and speed triggers immediate alarms and shutdowns in case of abnormalities.
Maintenance: Long-Term Care
Correct pitch selection is key: Smaller pitch ensures smooth operation for light loads, while larger pitch provides tensile strength for heavy loads.
Lubrication is critical for longevity: Regularly lubricate chain pins; use food-grade grease in food-contact environments, and select self-lubricating chains for hard-to-reach areas.
High Load Capacity:
The robust structure allows for the conveyance of heavy and large items.
Smooth Operation:
The flat conveying surface ensures smooth operation and high synchronization accuracy.
Easy to Clean:
The smooth surface is easy to rinse, making it suitable for industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.
Flexible Layout:
Supports various conveying configurations, including horizontal, inclined, and curved routes.