Skip to content

Performance Comparison Of Cable Drag And Drag Chain Conveyors In Us Manufacturing

When it comes to selecting the optimal conveyor system in any manufacturing environment, the choice between cable and chain drag conveyors is pivotal for maintaining efficiency and streamlining operations. If you’re faced with this decision, comparing cable and chain drag conveyors is an excellent starting point to make an informed choice. Despite their similar functions, these two conveyor types have distinct features and benefits tailored to different material handling needs.

To determine which drag conveyors are best, whether a tubular chain drag conveyor or a tubular cable drag conveyor suits your needs, let’s delve into their similarities.

Similarities Between Chain and Cable Drag Conveyors

Chain and cable drag conveyors share several general features. Both are known for their low energy consumption and suitability for medium-volume applications. They are enclosed, dust-free, and hygienic, making them ideal for conveying fragile products gently while maintaining blends. These conveyors seamlessly integrate with other bulk material handling equipment in the process.

Shared General Characteristics

Drag conveyors excel in low and medium-volume applications, handling material loads ranging from 0 to 20 tons per hour. Their variable conveying rates offer flexibility tailored to specific operational requirements. Notably, their low energy consumption reduces operational costs and promotes environmentally friendly operations.

To accommodate varying operational complexities, multiple conveyors can be linked together, enabling coverage over longer distances without compromising functionality. Both cable and chain drag conveyors feature an auto-tensioning mechanism, significantly enhancing the lifespan and reliability of the conveyor systems.

Shared Functional Attributes

Understanding the shared functional attributes can aid manufacturers in making the right decision for optimizing and improving their operations. Both cable and chain drag conveyors share the following characteristics:

  • Enclosed system
  • Dust-tight
  • Hygienic design and construction
  • Explosion-proof versions available
  • Gentle handling action
  • Multiple inlets and outlets
  • Multiple planes
  • Elevation capability
  • No dust filtration required

Bulk Materials Handled

Both cable and chain drag conveyors efficiently handle various types of bulk materials, including dry products. They preserve the quality and structure of fragile items during transit and maintain consistent blends of different materials throughout the conveying process.

Options Offered

When considering these conveyor systems, it’s crucial to evaluate the various options available with each conveyor. These options cater to a wide range of needs and applications, enhancing the functionality and versatility of your operations. Both conveyors offer options such as:

  • Tubes and chains in 316 Stainless Steel
  • Sanitary finish
  • Inlet support base
  • Corner sprockets (90° Idler Housing)
  • Hinged access covers
  • Hinged inlet chute access covers
  • Inlet vibration – electric or pneumatic
  • Tube-mounted inlets and outlets
  • Tube valve with chute (Pneumatically actuated inline discharge valve)
  • Extended capacity chute with dust hood, splash guard, and lid options
  • Manual or pneumatic inlet baffle
  • Rotation sensor (highly recommended)
  • Air purge
  • Level probes – NEMA 4 or 7
  • Mobile base
  • Controls (with or without VFD)
  • XP switch
  • Static grounding
  • 90° sweeps
  • Sweeps at custom angles

Remember, selecting the right features can significantly improve the longevity and performance of your conveyor system.

Cable vs. Chain Drag Conveyors: Key Differences

Cable and chain drag conveyors share similar designs, yet they differ significantly in terms of sprockets and operational characteristics. Here’s a detailed comparison of these two conveyor types:

Cost Considerations:

  • Cable drag conveyors generally have a lower upfront capital cost due to the less expensive cable and disc assembly compared to the chain and disc assembly.
  • The higher run speed of cable drag conveyors (up to 140 ft/min or 43 m/min) allows processors to achieve the same conveying capacities with a smaller-diameter conveyor, further reducing capital costs.

Durability and Maintenance:

  • Chain drag conveyors are more robust and durable, thanks to the strength of the chain, which outlasts the cable. This results in lower maintenance costs and fewer replacement parts purchases over time.
  • The heavy-duty chain drag conveyor is particularly suitable for conveying higher-density or abrasive materials due to its strength.

Hygiene and Cleanliness:

  • The crevice-free design of the chain and disc assembly in chain drag conveyors makes it ideal for hygienic applications in the food industry.
  • The smooth, crevice-free surfaces of the chain and disc assembly are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cross-contamination when conveying multiple types of materials.

Testing Recommendation:
When considering a dry bulk material conveyor, it’s essential to test the equipment with your specific material before purchase. We recommend working with a specialist manufacturer that can conduct pre-testing of your material in both cable and chain drag conveyors. This ensures you get the best process equipment tailored to your needs and achieve the desired results.

× WhatsApp Chat