Meeting the most challenging of conveyor requirements

>Glass conveying is a perfect example of the most challenging applications for conveyors. First there is the extreme heat as glass ware is produced. Then there is the inherent lack of stability of bottles, jars, drinking glasses and pressed ware such as bowls, car lights and larger items. We can think of many applications where demanding environments and the need for the very highest levels of stability mean that conventional chain conveyor simply can't cope.

>Not only are conventional chain products simply not up to the extreme conditions, but they are also not flat enough to convey delicate products. Additionally, standard conveyor chains often don't suit smaller components, which could easily drop through the gaps. And a flat surface isn't just important for increased stability: on products which are produced hot and which are still soft as they enter the conveyor, an inherently flat surface helps to prevent any product damage.

>We can see, then, that the issues that need to be addressed are the same familiar problems from any production environment: reducing downtime, eliminating waste and boosting productivity. So what is the solution in this particular case where the standard forms of conveyor chain can't cope? One answer is the range of Premium conveyor chains from Pennine Industrial Equipment. The company has been involved in the manufacture and supply of silent inverted tooth conveyor chain for the glass industry for over 30 years, so it knows a thing or two about the particular demands of this industry. But the products are equally suitable for use in other challenging conveyor applications.

>The Premium conveyor chain was developed specifically to meet demanding handling requirements, and there are centre guide, side guide and multi guide options. In the centre guide variant, the double guide link plates in the centre of the chain fit into the groove in the centre of the sprocket teeth, keeping the chain aligned during operation, whereas in the  side guide variant the guide links are fitted to each side of the chain and the sprocket fits between them to keep the chain aligned. The multi guide chains have been designed for stackers and cross conveyors, but they will meet the needs of other glass handling tasks and a myriad of applications outside of the glass industry. Each side of the chain is built up from a large number of guide links, typically about 25mm on each side.

>All of the variants are available in link and spacer, all-link, double assembly and special assembly versions according to specific application requirements. Link and spacer chains are manufactured by assembling a single washer between each link plate, allowing the overall chain weight to be reduced by approximately 25%. The increased space between the link plates allows debris to fall through while providing greater air flow when under-belt cooling is required.

>All-link chains are manufactured from 100% links to provide the maximum working surface and provide the smoothest handling of delicate or unstable products. Double assembly chains provide the best of both worlds, giving both a high degree of stability and the facility for under-belt cooling. Double assembly chains are manufactured with 100% more links than the original link and spacer chain, with a greater load bearing surface giving longer chain life. Pennine also offers low profile variants with links that are super flat.