Norpak multi-strand chain conveyors are highly recommended for pallet handling

A three-strand chain conveyor from OmniMetalcraft

Among the great material-handling solutions available to Canadian businesses through Norpak Handling Ltd. are multi-strand chain conveyors. An integral part of many industries, these conveyors are used to move heavy unit loads with different bases, like pallets and slabs. They are useful not only for transport applications, but also for accumulation.

Multi-strand chain conveyors offer many advantages in pallet handling, especially complex operations and unit loads that are parallel and perpendicular to the chains.

Reversible direction of motion

Each of these conveyor models uses two or three parallel chains pulled across rails, acting as a support structure for the chains. It transports pallets and unit loads on a horizontal plane, with the chains carrying the load. Two chains are typically enough to convey a unit load if its base is robust and structurally sound; otherwise, the user can incorporate a third chain in the centre to support the pallet/slab/base of the load.

The operation of the conveyor depends on the stability of the base, the width between the chains, and the height and length of the load. In pallets with interlocked patterns, a load height exceeding the length necessitates recalibration of the conveyor’s speed and acceleration. Among the benefits of multi-strand drag chain conveyors in pallet handling:

• easy transport of heavy, palletized loads;
• ability to handle uneven pallet surfaces and bases that do not convey well on rollers;
• ability to change the direction of heavy unit loads: any pallet moving on a roller conveyor can be transferred straight ahead or at a perpendicular angle with a multi-strand conveyor’s assistance;
• reversible principle direction of motion, which is particularly useful when combined with low-maintenance features; and
• ability to take extra chains for better support of heavier loads with unstable or uneven bases.

There are two categories of Hytrol multi-strand drag chain conveyors available from Norpak: one for transport, one for accumulation. There are four models built to move heavy pallet loads no more than 6,000 pounds, while the same four conveyors also come with EZLogic Zone Controllers for accumulation tasks – ideal for fragile packages and loads.

To learn more, contact Norpak.

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