In the food processing industry, tubular chain and cable drag conveyors share a similar function but have distinct differences in components and operation. Understanding these differences will help food manufacturers determine which system is best suited for their needs.
Tubular drag conveyors, which use a motor-driven sprocket within an enclosed tube to transfer flowable bulk materials, are mechanically driven and enclosed to ensure safe and efficient transport. With options for vertical, horizontal, and angled movement, as well as easy changes in conveyor routing and length, these conveyors are flexible and versatile.
They have successfully served a diverse range of industries, including food processing, for over 50 years. In this industry, where product safety and reliability are paramount, tubular drag conveyors are an ideal choice for gently moving delicate materials without separation or contamination.
As concerns about food safety continue to rise, these systems remain in high demand for their ability to meet strict track and trace requirements and prevent cross-contamination of allergens. They are designed to ensure safe and efficient transport, and have served the food processing industry for over 50 years. With the ability to easily change conveyor routing and length, as well as options for vertical, horizontal, and angled movement, they are a flexible and versatile choice for manufacturers.
Furthermore, their enclosed design prevents cross-contamination of allergens and meets strict track and trace requirements, making them an ideal choice for maintaining product safety and reliability. Plus, their gentle movements help prevent separation or damage to delicate materials, making them a desirable option for handling sensitive ingredients.
With a proven track record and a long-standing presence in the industry, tubular drag conveyors are a trusted and dependable choice for food manufacturers looking to optimize their production process.
Chain conveyors
Tubular conveyors use a drag chain to gently move food products through a sealed tube. The chain is looped and has solid circular discs attached to it, which push the food. This type of system can handle up to 36,287 kg/h of dry food product.
Tubular chain conveyors were first introduced in the mid-1940s and have become increasingly popular in manufacturing. Interestingly, the use of steel bushings in chain was first implemented in the late 1880s and has since been used in various industries such as bicycles, automobiles, and airplanes.
Although some tubular drag chain conveyors still use bushings today, Leonardo da Vinci actually sketched a steel chain as early as the 16th century. In the 19th century, advancements in steel manufacturing made steel chain a viable option.
There are two types of chains used in tubular conveyors, link chain and roller chain, both made from type 316 stainless steel to resist acid and corrosion. Cutting-edge technology meets timeless design. With its origins dating back centuries, tubular chain conveyors have evolved into a highly efficient way to transport dry food products.
The pioneering use of steel bushings in the late 19th century set the stage for the durable and corrosion-resistant type 316 stainless steel chains used today. Whether handling 36,287 kg/h of food or powering bicycles, automobiles, and airplanes, tubular conveyors offer reliability and longevity.
Cable conveyors
Tubular chain conveyors are just like tubular cable conveyors, as they both transport food products through a sealed tube. In this system, the food is gently pushed by solid circular discs that are attached to a coated, flexible stainless steel drag cable, which is constantly pulled through the tube on a loop.
Similar to chain conveyors, tubular cable conveyors can carry up to 36,200 kg of product per hour at low speed, and have minimal product degradation. The stainless steel drag cable used in most tubular conveyors is made of WSC (wire strand core), also known as aircraft cable due to its use in control functions for aircraft.
This high-tensile cable is made of type 316 stainless steel and surrounded by stainless steel stranded ropes, creating a strong and durable assembly.
Originally developed in the 1830s for mining hoist applications, wire ropes have since been used in various critical applications such as suspension bridges, elevators, and aircraft control systems.
System sanitation and food safety
An important factor in food production is the prevention of product contamination during the conveying process. This includes keeping foreign matter out of the system, maintaining sanitation, and preventing allergens from entering the production stream. With stricter mandates and consumer demands for product safety, the issue of contamination has become increasingly critical.
Changeovers in production lines also play a role in maintaining cleanliness and efficiency.
However, these changeovers can impact production time and profitability if not done quickly and efficiently. Tubular drag conveyors, which use chain and cable systems, provide a solution by gently transporting dry bulk food products in enclosed, dust-free tubes, preventing contamination and minimizing health hazards and potential explosions.
Proper product handling is essential in the food industry, especially when it comes to preventing contamination and maintaining sanitation. With the increasing demand for product safety, it’s crucial to have efficient and clean production lines.
Tubular drag conveyors offer a solution by gently transporting dry bulk food products in enclosed tubes, ensuring dust-free and contamination-free conveyance.
This not only minimizes health hazards but also increases production efficiency and profitability. With stricter mandates and consumer demands, having a reliable and safe conveying process is a critical factor for successful food production.