The Complete Guide to Chain

4.2.9 TN Snap-On Top Plate Chain

Top Chain: Engineered plastic top plates. Linear conveyance, general uses

Application Example

TN Snap-On Top Plate Chain is used for conveying and accumulating objects that are easily scratched (Figures 4.14 and 4.15), and can be used alone or several strands in parallel.

Construction and Features

  1. This linear conveyance chain consists of engineered plastic top plates snapped onto outer links of RS60 Roller Chain (chain pitch: 19.05 mm, with nonriveted pin ends). It is easy to install or exchange top plates in this chain. When snap-on top plates of two or more separate chains are guided by the liners, it is possible to move conveyed objects across chains.
  2. Table 4.13 shows the maximum allowable tension and available widths of top plates for base chains made of different materials. Notice the higher maximum allowable loads for carbon steel and plated carbon steel chains.

Figure 4.14 TN Top Chain
Figure 4.14 TN Top Chain
Figure 4.14 TN Top Chain
Figure 4.14 TN Top Chain

Figure 4.15 TN Top Chain Has Level Top Plates
Figure 4.15 TN Top Chain Has Level Top Plates

Table 4.13 Maximum Allowable Loads for Top Plate Chains
Chain Spec. Maximum Allowable Load (kN) Sprocket
82.6 101.6 114.3 127 190.5
Carbon Steel 6.28 Available Available Available Available Available
NP 6.28 Available Available Available Available Available
SS 1.03 Available Available Available Available Available
Poly-Steel 0.88 Available N/A N/A N/A N/A

Available : Available

Sprockets

Usually, standard sprockets for RS60 Roller Chain with 19 teeth (P.D. 115.74 mm) through 25 teeth (P.D. 151.99 mm) are used with this chain. Stainless steel and engineered plastic sprockets are also available.

Selection and Handling

  1. Snap-on top plates will not separate from the base chain under normal use. Excessive loads may cause snap-on top plates to separate.
  2. An idler pulley should not be used for this chain.
  3. The back portion of the top plate rises slightly above the level of the conveying surface in the area where the chain engages with the sprocket. This should be considered when designing a system.

Chains for Special Applications

  1. Lube-free LAMBDA® carbon steel or plated chains can be used for clean applications. These chains are most effective if they are not exposed to water, liquid, or dust.
  2. MW top plates are low-friction and abrasion resistant.
  3. TNU Snap-On Top Plate Chain series are used in curved movement.
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