Tsubaki's novel Double Plus free flow conveyor chain conveys objects 2.5 times faster than the actual chain speed. As a result, motor speeds up to 60% slower can be used, leading to improved system reliability and substantial reductions in energy costs and chain noise, the latter by as much as 15dB compared to outboard plastic roller chains. Double Plus has been introduced by Tsubaki to give manufacturers a competitive edge through improved conveying performance.
The chain easily achieves this objective with its ability to convey at more than twice the speed of ordinary free flow chain.
Double Plus employs a novel design, which incorporates a large centre roller, and a smaller outer roller, which supports the chain on a guide rail.
When engaged, the large centre rollers (upon which conveyed objects travel) rotate at the same rpm as the small rollers.
However, since the diameter of the large rollers is approximately 2.5 times that of the smaller ones, conveyed objects move along approximately 2.5 times faster than the chain.
The benefits of this novel design are that chain speeds up to 60% slower can be used without affecting the object conveying speed.
Consequently, motor drive speeds can be reduced leading to substantial power savings, and to reduced noise levels some 15dB lower than those of plastic side roller chains.
Added to these advantages are the excellent start-up and acceleration facilities provided by the large roller/small roller combination and the fact that Double Plus is safer than outboard roller chains because the chain is fully covered by a guide rail.
Double Plus is available in five pitch sizes - 19.05mm, 25.4mm, 31.75mm, 38.10mm and 50.8mm - and three material types for different operating environments.
Carbon steel is preferred for normal applications, with Hard Chrome Plated steel for clean room applications and the option of stainless steel for corrosive environments.
There is also a choice of roller materials, including two kinds of electrically-conductive types, which release static energy and prevent the build-up of dust.
Tsubaki offers Double Plus chain with snap covers for conveyor applications where small parts, such as nuts and bolts, can fall into the gaps between the guides and rollers.
These parts cause the chain to jam when they enter the area between the chain and sprocket.
Double Plus chain with Snap Covers solves such problems.
Using snap covers and new guide rails, the gaps between the rollers and/or rollers and guides are minimised.
As a result, parts cannot fall into the conveyor and prevent its operation.