The selection of chain material is critical to a chain's performance and service life. Common chain materials include carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel. Carbon steel chains offer advantages such as low cost and excellent machinability; however, their corrosion resistance and wear resistance are relatively poor. Alloy steel chains, by incorporating alloying elements, exhibit enhanced strength and wear resistance, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications and high-speed lifting operations. Stainless steel chains, conversely, boast superior corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal, making them ideal for environments with strict hygiene requirements-such as the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Series and Models: The common NE series plate-chain bucket elevators are available in 11 specifications, ranging from the NE15 to the NE800. The numerical suffix in each model designation approximately indicates its lifting capacity (in cubic meters per hour). The NSE series consists of similar high-speed plate-chain bucket elevators. Different elevator models require the use of chains of the corresponding specifications.
Selection Principles: The selection of the chain must take into account the characteristics of the conveyed material as well as the dimensions of the buckets. For elevators with bucket widths ranging from 160 mm to 250 mm, a single chain is typically employed to connect to the rear wall of the buckets; conversely, for elevators with bucket widths ranging from 320 mm to 630 mm, a dual-chain configuration is required-connecting to both sides of the buckets-in order to ensure load balance.
