Maintenance Guides 26 min read

Diagnosis Guide for Jams and Overload in Chain Conveyors

Technical analysis: Troubleshooting chain conveyor jamming and overload: chain elongation, sprocket wear, lubrication fa

1. Description of the Problem and Scope

Chain conveyors are critical components in many industrial operations, but they are prone to jams and overloads that compromise operational efficiency and safety. This diagnostic guide focuses on the symptoms associated with excessive resistance in the transport system, which can manifest as:

  • Recurring jam or complete stop of the conveyor: Abrupt interruption of chain movement.
  • Frequent activation of motor overload protection: The drive motor draws excessive current.
  • Abnormal noise: Squeaking, creaking or knocking coming from the chain or sprocket system.
  • Excessive vibration: Unusual vibrations detected in the conveyor structure or gear motor.
  • Accelerated wear: Evidence of premature wear on chain components, sprockets or bearings.

This document covers the main types of chain conveyors, including roller chains, drag chains and slat chains, used in sectors such as automotive, food, mining and materials handling. The severity of these failures is classified as critical, as a prolonged jam or overload can cause severe equipment damage, unplanned downtime, and risks to personnel safety. Prompt diagnosis and resolution are essential.

2. Safety Precautions

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING!

Before beginning any diagnostic or maintenance procedure on a chain conveyor, it is ESSENTIAL to secure the work area and strictly apply the following safety protocols to prevent serious or fatal accidents due to unexpected movement, entrapment or release of stored energy.

  • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Completely de-energize the conveyor. Isolate all power sources (electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic) and lock out isolation devices. Clearly label the equipment to indicate that it is being worked on. ALWAYS CHECK THE ABSENCE OF VOLTAGE WITH APPROPRIATE VERIFICATION EQUIPMENT.
  • Stored Energy: Conveyors, especially inclined ones or those with large moving masses, may have stored potential or kinetic energy. Make sure there is no buildup of material that can slide, or residual tension in the chain that can be abruptly released when handled.
  • Personal Protection (PPE - Personal Protective Equipment): Always use:
    • Safety helmet (UNE-EN 397)
    • Safety glasses (UNE-EN 166)
    • Anti-cut and/or impact gloves (UNE-EN 388)
    • Safety footwear with reinforced toe (UNE-EN ISO 20345)
    • Tight-fitting work clothes, without hanging elements that can get caught.
  • Safe Work Area: Delimit the work area and ensure that only authorized and properly trained personnel have access. Avoid working alone.
  • Hot Surfaces: Conveyor components (motor, bearings, reducers) can reach high temperatures. Allow to cool or use heat resistant gloves when handling.
  • Hazardous Materials: If the transporter handles hazardous materials (explosive dust, chemicals), follow company-specific protocols for handling and cleaning.

3. Required Diagnostic Tools

Accurate diagnosis of a chain conveyor requires the use of specific tools. The following table details the essential equipment, its recommended specifications, and its purpose in the diagnostic process.

Tool Specification/Model Typical Measurement Range Purpose
Digital Multimeter True RMS, CAT III 600V 0-1000V AC/DC, 0-20A AC/DC, 0-40MΩ Motor voltage and current measurement (diagnosis of electrical overload), wiring continuity.
Clamp Meter True RMS, for AC/DC currents 0-600A AC/DC Measurement of starting current and operation of the motor without interrupting the circuit. Identification of mechanical overloads reflected in electrical consumption.
Infrared Thermometer (Thermal Gun) Adjustable emissivity, range -30°C to 500°C -50°C to 800°C (typical) Quick detection of hot spots (bearings, motor, reducers, friction areas) indicative of wear, misalignment or lack of lubrication.
Thermal Camera Resolution 160x120px or higher, thermal sensitivity <0.1°C -20°C to 650°C (typical) Detailed temperature distribution analysis, identification of subtle overheating or anomalous thermal patterns over large areas.
Vibration Analyzer (Vibrometer) Triaxial accelerometer, frequency range 10Hz-10kHz Acceleration (g), Velocity (mm/s), Displacement (µm) Detection of misalignment, imbalance, mechanical looseness and failures in bearings or gears, reflecting problems in the conveyor. Alarm threshold value for speed: >7.1 mm/s RMS (according to ISO 10816-3 for industrial machinery).
Gage Set (Feeler Gauges) Hardened steel, precision 0.01 mm 0.02mm to 1.00mm Measurement of chain elongation (distance between pins) and clearances.
Chain Tension Meter (tensiometer) Analog or digital, for different chain steps Depending on chain type (e.g., 2-3% of the span between centers) Verification of correct chain sag/tension. Too much or too little buckling causes problems.
Sprocket Wear Templates Manufactured for specific chain pitches (ISO, EN) Visual and tactile comparison Evaluation of the wear profile of the pinion teeth (hook shape, thinning).
Industrial Endoscope / Borescope Flexible diameter 4-8mm, length 1-5m, LED lighting Visual inspection in hard-to-reach areas Inspection for material buildup, damage to chain or brackets in hidden areas.
Luxometer Range 0-50,000 lux Ambient illuminance measurement Ensure adequate lighting for accurate and safe visual inspection.

4. Initial Evaluation Checklist

Before initiating an in-depth diagnosis, a thorough initial evaluation gathers crucial information and often points to the root cause. Perform the following checks with the conveyor stopped and energy isolated, if possible, or under safe and supervised operating conditions.

Element to Check Observation/Registration Notes / Alarm Thresholds
Alarm and Fault History Check the SCADA/PLC system or maintenance log. What alarms were activated? How often? Are the same error codes repeated? (e.g. motor overload fault, jam sensor activated).
Previous Operating Conditions Operating speed, type and volume of material transported, applied load. Did the jam occur under rated load, overload, or no load? Was there a recent change in material or speed?
Operating Environment Presence of dust, humidity, extreme temperatures, foreign elements. Does the environment contribute to material buildup or corrosion?
General Visual Inspection (with LOTO) Condition of the chain (tension, alignment, broken links, protruding pins), sprockets (wear, buildup), guides (alignment, friction), loading/unloading hoppers. Look for built-up material, visible damage to the chain or sprockets, deformations in the frame, obvious misalignment.
Lubrication System Status Lubricant level, condition of supply lines, nozzles, presence of lubricant in the chain and sprockets. Is the lubrication system working? Are there signs of lack of lubricant (dry spots, rust)? Is the correct lubricant used (ISO VG or NLGI)?
Free Play and Manual Resistance With the conveyor de-energized, try moving the chain manually or with a bar. Does it move smoothly or are there points of excessive resistance or complete jamming? This helps locate the problem area.
Abnormal Sounds and Smells (Safe observation in operation) Listen for unusual noises (scratching, squeaking, tapping) and burning smells. Abnormal noises or a burning smell from belts or oils may indicate friction or overheating.

5. Systematic Diagnostic Flowchart

This flow chart provides a logical sequence for diagnosing a jam or overload on a chain conveyor, guiding the technician from the initial symptoms to the most likely root cause.

  1. INITIAL SYMPTOM: Conveyor Stuck or Motor Overload Protection Activated
    1. Check current consumption of the drive motor.
      • Use current clamp on a phase conductor.
      • Threshold: Current > 110% of nominal (In) or activation of the overload relay.
      • Result:
        1. If HIGH Current (>110% In): The problem is mechanical (high resistance). Proceed to step 2.
        2. If NORMAL or LOW Current: The problem is electrical (motor, drive, wiring) or electronic (sensor). This is NOT a mechanical jam. Check the engine electrical system. (END OF THIS GUIDE).
  2. Mechanical Resistance Diagnosis
    1. Visually inspect chain path and buildup points. (With LOTO applied)
      • Examine chain, guides, sprockets, loading/unloading hoppers and conveyor bed.
      • Result:
        1. If there is EXCESSIVE accumulation of material (dust, product, residue) obstructing the passage of the chain or preventing the free movement of the elements. Proceed to step 3 (Material Accumulation).
        2. If there is NO obvious material buildup. Proceed to step 4 (Chain Status).
  3. Probable Cause: Material Buildup
    1. Confirmation: Visible material causing friction or physical blockage.
    2. Immediate Resolution: Manual cleaning of the affected area, removal of obstructions.
    3. Evaluation: Is the jam resolved?
      1. If YES: The problem was accumulation. Investigate preventative measures (Step 9) to avoid recurrences.
      2. If NO or Recurrence: Accumulation may be a factor, but there are other causes. Proceed to step 4 (String Status).
  4. Chain Condition Diagnosis
    1. Measure chain elongation. (With LOTO applied)
      • Select a 1 meter (or 10-20 steps) stretch of chain without tension.
      • Measure the distance between the first pin and the last with a tape measure or caliper.
      • Threshold: Excessive elongation if the measured length exceeds the nominal reference length for that number of steps by more than 3%. (According to ISO 606 / DIN 8187/8188).
      • Result:
        1. If elongation > 3%: Proceed to step 5 (Chain Elongation).
        2. If elongation ≤ 3% (Chain OK): Proceed to step 6 (Sprocket Condition).
  5. Probable Cause: Excessive Chain Elongation
    1. Confirmation: Elongation measurement out of tolerance.
    2. Resolution: Replacing the chain with a new one and adjusting the initial tension.
    3. Evaluation: Is the jam resolved?
      1. If YES: The problem was the chain. Review preventative measures (Step 9) and replacement parts (Step 10).
      2. If NO or Recurres: There may be secondary wear. Proceed to step 6 (Sprocket Condition).
  6. Diagnosis of Sprocket Condition
    1. Visually inspect the sprockets. (With LOTO applied)
      • Look for teeth with a hooking profile, lateral thinning, breaks or cracks.
      • Use a sprocket wear template to check the profile.
      • Threshold: Significant wear if the tooth profile visibly differs from the original or if the template does not fit correctly. Hooking wear is a critical indicator.
      • Result:
        1. If worn sprockets: Proceed to step 7 (Sprocket Wear).
        2. If sprockets OK: Proceed to step 8 (Lubrication System).
  7. Probable Cause: Wear of Sprockets
    1. Confirmation: Visible wear on teeth or verification with template.
    2. Resolution: Replacing worn sprockets. It is advisable to replace the chain and sprockets simultaneously to ensure optimal engagement.
    3. Evaluation: Is the jam resolved?
      1. If YES: The problem was the wear of the sprockets. Review preventative measures (Step 9) and replacement parts (Step 10).
      2. If NO or Recurrence: The problem is lubrication or a structural failure. Proceed to step 8 (Lubrication System).
  8. Lubrication System Diagnosis
    1. Visually inspect chain and sprocket lubrication. (With LOTO applied)
      • Look for dry spots, rust, excess lubricant (which can attract dirt), or incorrect/contaminated lubricant.
      • Use IR thermometer or thermal imaging camera to detect hot spots in bearings or chain links.
      • Threshold: Temperature > 20°C above ambient temperature in non-lubricated bearings or links (alarm value). Oil temperature > 80°C may indicate degradation.
      • Result:
        1. If inadequate or failed lubrication: Proceed to step 9 (Lubrication Failure).
        2. If lubrication OK (and all above were ruled out): The problem could be a structural failure (e.g. damaged bearing, structural misalignment) that requires further investigation, possibly with detailed vibration analysis or inspection of welds and supports. (END OF THIS GUIDE - Requires additional analysis).
  9. Probable Cause: Lubrication Failure
    1. Confirmation: Evidence of lack of lubricant, incorrect lubricant, or overheating.
    2. Resolution: Restore adequate lubrication: clean system, apply correct lubricant (ISO VG or NLGI according to specification), check/repair automatic lubrication system.
    3. Evaluation: Is the jam resolved?
      1. If YES: The problem was lubrication. Review preventative measures (Step 9) and replacement parts (Step 10).
      2. If NO or Recurrence: Consider the possibility of permanent damage due to lack of lubrication (e.g. damaged bearings or chain pins). Proceed to further inspection and possible replacement.

6. Matrix of Symptoms and Probable Causes

The following table correlates the observed symptoms with the probable causes, the recommended diagnostic tests and the expected results to confirm the cause.

Symptom Probable Cause (Frequency Ranking) Diagnostic Test Expected Result (if cause is confirmed)
Conveyor gets stuck / Emergency stop 1. Accumulation of material in guides/sprockets
2. Excessive chain elongation
3. Severe wear of sprockets
4. Critical lubrication failure (chain/bearings)
5. Foreign object stuck		 1. Detailed visual inspection
2. Chain elongation measurement with gauges
3. Visual inspection of sprockets / Use of wear template
4. Visual inspection of lubricant / Thermography
5. Thorough visual inspection / Use of endoscope		 1. Solid material obstructing the passage
2. Elongation > 3% of nominal pitch
3. Hooked or tapered sprocket teeth
4. Dry spots, rust, temperatures > 20°C above ambient
5. Visible foreign body blocking the chain
Frequent activation of motor overload relay 1. Material accumulation
2. Chain elongation
3. Wear of sprockets
4. Lubrication failure
5. Misalignment of conveyor or drive system		 1. Visual inspection
2. Elongation measurement
3. Sprocket inspection
4. Lubrication inspection / Thermography
5. Alignment check with laser or level		 1. See above
2. See above
3. See above
4. See above
5. Alignment deviations > 0.2 mm or 0.05 degrees. (Standard ISO 1940-1).
Excessive noise (knocking, squeaking, creaking) 1. Chain elongation
2. Wear of sprockets
3. Lubrication failure
4. Damaged roller bearings (in chain or brackets)
5. Material accumulation		 1. Elongation measurement
2. Sprocket inspection
3. Lubrication inspection
4. Vibration Analysis / Thermography
5. Visual inspection		 1. See above
2. See above
3. See above
4. Vibration level > 7.1 mm/s RMS (alarm) / Temperature > 20°C above ambient
5. See above
Abnormal conveyor vibration 1. Chain elongation
2. Wear of sprockets
3. System misalignment
4. Imbalance of rotating components (e.g. rollers)
5. Frame structural failure		 1. Elongation measurement
2. Sprocket inspection
3. Alignment Check
4. Vibration analysis
5. Visual inspection of welds and anchors		 1. See above
2. See above
3. See above
4. Specific vibration levels for imbalance or misalignment (1x or 2x shaft RPM frequencies).
5. Cracks, warping or loose fixings.

7. Root Cause Analysis for Each Failure

Understanding the why of each failure is essential to implementing lasting solutions.

7.1. Excessive Chain Elongation

Explanation: The elongation of a chain, also known as "chain stretch", is not due to plastic deformation of the link material, but rather to abrasive wear that occurs on the contact surfaces of the pins and bushings (or rollers) as they rotate under load. This wear increases the effective distance between the centers of the pins, causing an increase in the nominal pitch of the chain.

Contributing Factors:

  • Inadequate Lubrication: Lack or degradation of lubricant increases metal-metal friction, accelerating wear.
  • Continuous Overload: Operating the chain above its rated load capacity accelerates fatigue and abrasion wear.
  • Abrasive Environments: The presence of dust, sand or particles in the environment contaminates the lubricant and acts as an abrasive between the internal components of the chain.
  • Material Fatigue: Repeated loading and unloading cycles can lead to steel fatigue, although this is less common as a primary cause of elongation than abrasive wear.

How to Confirm: Confirmation is done by measuring the distance of several chain pitches (preferably a minimum of 10) under zero tension. Compare the measurement obtained with the nominal length for that number of steps. An increase of more than 3% is a clear indicator of excessive elongation that justifies replacement (UNE-EN ISO 606).

Damage if not Resolved: An elongated chain does not mesh correctly with the sprockets, causing:

  • Irregular operation, "jumping" of teeth on the sprockets.
  • Increased vibration and noise.
  • Accelerated and uneven wear of the sprocket teeth (hook shape).
  • Drastic reduction in the life of bearings and other drive components.
  • Eventual chain breakage, resulting in catastrophic shutdowns and collateral damage.

7.2. Sprocket Wear

Explanation: Sprockets are critical for the transmission of power and motion. Wear on its teeth alters the mesh profile with the chain, affecting the smoothness of movement and load distribution.

Types and Factors of Wear:

  • Hooking Wear: The teeth develop a hook shape on the drive side due to the dragging and sliding of the chain rollers or bushings. It is a common symptom of chain elongation.
  • Abrasive Wear: Foreign particles in the environment or in the lubricant act as an abrasive between the teeth of the sprocket and the chain.
  • Misalignment: A misalignment between sprockets or between sprocket and chain can concentrate wear on one side of the tooth.
  • Excessive Load: Impact or overload forces can cause plastic deformation or fatigue in the teeth.

How to Confirm: Sprocket wear is confirmed visually, looking for the "hook" profile on the teeth. A specific wear template can be used for the pitch and number of teeth of the pinion. If the chain jumps or the engagement is erratic, wear is critical.

Damage if not resolved: Worn sprockets:

  • They cause poor engagement, increasing tension and wear on the chain.
  • They generate excessive vibrations and noise.
  • They can cause premature breakage of the chain or the sprocket itself.
  • They reduce the efficiency of the transmission system and increase energy consumption.

7.3. Lubrication Failure

Explanation: Lubrication is the most critical factor for the life of chains and sprockets. A failure in the lubrication system leads to direct metal-to-metal contact, generating friction, heat and accelerated wear.

Contributing Factors:

  • Lubricant Insufficiency: Low level in tanks, obstruction of lines, failure of pumps or dispensers.
  • Incorrect Lubricant Type: Use of a lubricant with viscosity (ISO VG) or additives (EP) inappropriate for the load, temperature or ambient conditions.
  • Lubricant Contamination: Presence of abrasive particles (dust, chips) or water that degrade the properties of the lubricant and cause wear.
  • Poor Application: The lubricant does not effectively reach the internal joints of the chain or the meshing area of ​​the sprockets.

How to Confirm: It is confirmed by visual inspection of the chain and sprockets (dry spots, oxidation, discoloration due to overheating). An infrared thermometer or thermal imaging camera will reveal a significant increase in temperature in the affected areas (> 20°C above room temperature).

Damage if not resolved:

  • Exponential increase in friction wear on chain pins, bushings and rollers, and on sprocket teeth.
  • Overheating of components, which can lead to loss of mechanical properties and deformation.
  • Blocking of the chain joints ("rigid chain"), preventing its flexibility and proper engagement.
  • Increased motor energy consumption due to increased frictional resistance.
  • Premature failures of bearings and other drive components.

7.4. Material Accumulation

Explanation: Material buildup is the simplest and often most common cause of jams. It occurs when the transported product, waste or foreign elements are deposited in critical points of the conveyor, creating physical resistance to the movement of the chain.

Contributing Factors:

  • Poor Design: Poorly designed loading/unloading hoppers, lack of protections or scrapers.
  • Nature of Material: Sticky, moist, fibrous or highly cohesive materials tend to accumulate more easily.
  • Inadequate Cleaning: Lack of regular cleaning routines or ineffective cleaning equipment.
  • Excess Load: The overload of the conveyor can overflow the material, which then accumulates in the guides and structure.
  • Foreign Objects: Accidental entry of tools, pieces of packaging or any other element foreign to the process.

How to Confirm: Material accumulation is confirmed by direct visual inspection. The use of an endoscope may be necessary to inspect hard-to-reach areas.

Damage if not resolved:

  • Drastic increase in resistance to movement, resulting in motor overload and possible electrical failure.
  • Complete conveyor jams and emergency stops.
  • Abrasive and accelerated wear of the chain, sprockets and guides due to continuous contact with accumulated material.
  • Structural damage to the conveyor or its components if jam forces are excessive.
  • Safety risks due to trapped points or falling material.

8. Step-by-Step Resolution Procedures

After identifying the root cause, follow these procedures to correct the failure. ALWAYS APPLY LOTO AND THE SAFETY MEASURES IN POINT 2 BEFORE ANY INTERVENTION.

8.1. Resolution: Material Accumulation

  1. Secure Zone: Apply LOTO to the transporter. Delimit the work area.
  2. Manual Removal: Carefully remove all accumulated material from guides, sprockets, under the chain and in the hoppers. Use appropriate tools (brushes, scrapers, industrial vacuum cleaners) to avoid damaging components.
  3. Post Inspection: Once the area is cleaned, inspect for damage to the chain, sprockets, or guides that may have been caused by buildup.
  4. Operational Verification: Remove LOTO and test the conveyor without load and then progressively with load, monitoring motor current consumption and noise.

8.2. Resolution: Excessive Chain Elongation

  1. Secure Zone: Apply LOTO to the transporter.
  2. Disassembly: Identify the connecting link and disassemble the chain.
  3. Sprocket Inspection: Take the opportunity to inspect the sprockets. If the chain has exceeded 3% elongation, it is highly likely that the sprockets are also worn. It is CRITICAL to replace chain and sprockets simultaneously to optimize life and engagement.
  4. New Chain Installation: Install the new chain of the correct type and pitch (UNE-EN ISO 606).
  5. Tension Adjustment: Adjust the chain tension. Recommended sag is typically 2-3% of the sprocket center span. Avoid overvoltage, which can accelerate wear and fatigue. Consult the manufacturer's manual for specific values.
  6. Initial Lubrication: Apply adequate initial lubrication to the entire new chain.
  7. Operational Verification: Remove LOTO and test the conveyor, paying attention to smooth running, noise and current draw.

8.3. Resolution: Wear of Sprockets

  1. Secure Zone: Apply LOTO to the transporter.
  2. Disassembly: Remove the worn sprockets. In many cases, this involves disassembling the chain or releasing its tension.
  3. Chain Inspection: CHECK the status of the chain. If the sprockets are worn, chances are the chain is too, or it will wear out quickly with new sprockets. Replace chain if elongation exceeds 3% or if damaged.
  4. Installing New Sprockets: Install the new sprockets, making sure they are the same number of teeth, pitch, and hub type.
  5. Alignment: Perform precise alignment of the sprockets (with laser or precision ruler). Angular misalignment should not exceed 0.05 degrees and parallel misalignment should not exceed 0.2 mm.
  6. Chain Tension Adjustment: If the chain is not replaced, check and adjust its tension as specified by the manufacturer.
  7. Lubrication: Ensure the lubrication system is functional and apply adequate lubricant to the new sprockets and chain.
  8. Operational Verification: Remove LOTO and test the conveyor.

8.4. Resolution: Lubrication Failure

  1. Secure Zone: Apply LOTO to the transporter.
  2. System Inspection: Locate the cause of the lack of lubrication:
    • Check the lubricant level in the tank.
    • Inspect lubricant lines, nozzles and distributors for blockages, leaks or damage.
    • Check the operation of the lubrication pump.
    • Analyze the type of lubricant. Make sure it meets the manufacturer's specification (ISO VG viscosity for oils, NLGI grade for greases).
  3. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the chain and sprockets of any degraded or contaminated lubricant residue.
  4. Refill/Repair: Refill the reservoir with new, correct lubricant. Repair or replace defective lubrication system components.
  5. Lubricant Application: Manually lubricate the chain and sprockets thoroughly to restore an initial protective layer.
  6. Monitoring: Reset and monitor the automatic lubrication system to ensure consistent and proper application.
  7. Operational Verification: Remove LOTO and test the conveyor, monitoring the temperature with IR thermometer to confirm friction reduction.

9. Preventive Measures

Prevention is the most effective strategy to extend the useful life of the conveyor and avoid unplanned stops.

Root Cause Prevention Strategy Monitoring Method Recommended Interval
Chain Elongation Selection of chain with adequate resistance, maintenance of tension, correct lubrication. Periodic measurement of elongation (gauges), visual inspection of tension/buckling. Monthly to Quarterly (depends on load and environment).
Sprocket Wear Precise alignment, effective lubrication, synchronized replacement with the chain, suitable material selection. Visual inspection of the profile of the teeth (template), vibration analysis. Quarterly to Semiannual.
Lubrication Failure Reliable automatic lubrication system, use of correct and high-quality lubricant, lubricant filtration. Tank level, line pressure, nozzle inspection, oil analysis, thermography. Daily/Weekly (level), Monthly (inspection), Semi-annual/Annual (oil analysis).
Material Accumulation Optimized conveyor design (hoppers, scrapers), cleaning routines, spill control. Visual inspection of critical points, environmental control. Daily/Weekly (cleaning), Monthly (detailed inspection).

10. Spare Parts and Components

Having the right replacement parts is essential for a quick resolution. Consult the UNITEC-D electronic catalog (https://www.unitecd.com/e-catalog/) to find the specific components for your equipment.

Part Description Critical Specification When to Replace UNITEC-D Category
Roller Chain Pitch (e.g. 12.7 mm, 25.4 mm), Serial number (e.g. ISO 08B-2, EN 20B-2), Type (single, double), Material (carbon steel, stainless). Elongation > 3% of nominal pitch, broken links, loose pins, damaged rollers. Power Transmission - Chains
Chain Sprockets Number of teeth, Pitch (matched with chain), Hub type (cone, axle, chainring), Material (C45 steel, hardened). Tooth wear (hook profile, thinning), cracks, breaks. Always replace with chain. Power Transmission - Sprockets
Bearings / Support Bearings Type (rigid ball joint, bearing, housing blocks), Shaft diameter, Nominal speed, Load capacity. Excessive noise, vibration > 7.1 mm/s RMS, overheating > 20°C above ambient, excessive play. Bearings and Supports
Industrial Lubricant Type (oil, grease), Viscosity (ISO VG, e.g. VG 220), NLGI Grade (for greases), Additives (EP), Operating temperature. According to maintenance program or if degradation/contamination is detected. Always use the specified one. Lubricants - Oils and Fats
Scrapers and Cleaning Elements Material (PU, steel, nylon), Dimensions, Mounting type. Obvious wear, loss of effectiveness, breakage. Conveyor Accessories
Track/Speed Sensors Type (inductive, capacitive, optical), Detection distance, Connection (2/3/4 wires), Output (NO/NC). Malfunction, false alarms, physical damage. Automation - Sensors

For precise selection and availability of these parts, please visit our E-Catalog of UNITEC-D. Our technical team is available to advise you.

11. References

  • UNE-EN ISO 606:2016 - Precision roller chains and bushing chains, short pitches, for power transmissions.
  • UNE-EN ISO 10816-3:2009 - Evaluation of machine vibration by measurements on non-rotating parts.
  • UNE-EN 397:2012+A1:2012 - Protective helmets for industry.
  • UNE-EN 166:2002 - Individual eye protection. Requirements.
  • UNE-EN 388:2016+A1:2019 - Protective gloves against mechanical risks.
  • UNE-EN ISO 20345:2012 - Personal protective equipment. Safety footwear.
  • Operation and Maintenance Manuals (OEM) from the conveyor manufacturer.
  • Internal safety regulations and LOTO procedures of the plant.

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