Drop-Forged Chain

Drop forged chains are a specialized type of conveyor chain manufactured through the drop forging process, where heated steel is hammered or pressed into precise, high-strength shapes.

This results in exceptionally tough and durable links, suited for highly abrasive environments due to their simple mechanism and high surface hardness.

Key Features

High Strength: The forging process aligns the metal’s grain structure, improving its tensile strength and wear resistance compared to cast or welded chains.
Impact Resistance: Drop forged chains can withstand shock loads and harsh operating conditions better than many other chain types.
Dimensional Accuracy: Forging ensures consistent, uniform link shapes for smoother operation in conveyors.
Long Service Life: Resistant to elongation and wear, making them cost-effective over time.

Applications

Drop forged chains are commonly used in industries where robustness and reliability are crucial:

Agricultural / Feed mills
Sugar mills
Timber and wood processing
Abrasive material handling conveyors

Drop-Forged Rivetless Chain

A variation of the drop forged chain is the Rivetless Chain. This chain is designed to consist only of outer links, inner block links, and pins, offering the benefit of fewer moving parts, which makes it suitable for harsh environments.

Without a roller, it eliminates a common source of issue in demanding applications, but as a result, the chain must slide on the edges of the side plates, leading to increased power requirements due to higher friction.

Advantages Over Other Chains

Stronger than cast chains (no porosity or weak points).
More durable than welded chains (no weak weld seams).
Lower maintenance needs than roller conveyor chains due to the lack of rollers.

Design Variations

Available with forged scraper attachments for handling bulk material.
Can be paired with special sprockets designed for drop forged links.
Offered in different sizes and grades depending on load requirements.