Rexnord REX TableTop Series Installation and operation manual

®®
Rex®Engineering Manual

Rex®TableTop®
Engineering
Manual

CONVEYOR LENGTH AND CONFIGURATION
STRAIGHT -
TRANSFER END
START
Figure A
Figure B
- A B
START START
END I I I I I I I END
Figure A Figure B
SIDEFLEXING VS
A B
VS
END
START
Rexnord does not build conveyors which use TableTop®chains,
nor does it specify one conveyor design over another. However,
based on many years of application experience, Rexnord is well
qualified to point out general guidelines and alternatives in
conveyor systems design, chain application and chain selection.
Conveyor systems design consists of Systems Economics and
Cost which involves:
1. Conveyor Length and Configuration
2. Chain Width and Speed
3. Overall Conveyor Cost
4. Maintenance
Begin with a review of the overall layout including space
available, structural obstructions and process machinery and the
relative positions of different machines. Then, using the following
considerations, arrive at the optimum machinery and conveyor
layout for proper utilization of TableTop®chains.
The longest, simplest configuration possible, (Fig B) is always
the best. However, sometimes short conveyors with several
transfers must be used to change speeds, change inclines,
accumulate, etc.
Use sideflexing chains and run as far as possible. This
alternative (Fig B) offers the following advantages over Figure A:
Elimination of transfers over dead-plates and turntables.
Less tipping and jamming, less noise.
Elimination of product slippage at transfer points.
Reduction of expense for attendant machinery including motors,
sprockets, etc.
Reduction of expense for attendant machinery including dead-
plates and turntables.
The criteria for conveyor width and speed is the number of
products which must be delivered to a location per unit of time.
The infeed and outfeed of each process machine will dictate
product flow width at the machines. But in-between, the
alternatives range from high speed-single file to intermediate
speed-multiple file on one wide chain to slow speed-multiple file
on multiple wide strands.
Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each:
Single File Multiple File
High Speed Slow Speed
ADVANTAGES
Less expensive chain Longer chain life due to
slow speed
Less expensive initial Less chance of product
conveyor cost tippage
Longer runs In-line accumulation
less noise
DISADVANTAGES
Faster chain wear More expensive chain
More wear on products More expensive initial
when slippage occurs conveyor cost
More chance of product Shorter runs
tippage and jam-ups
Noisier Multiple chain strands may
cause transfer problems
To determine chain widths and see Page 14, Multiflex.
OVERALL CONVEYOR COST
Overall conveyor cost includes:
1. The cost of one chain versus another.
2. The cost of more efficient chains versus the cost of drives
and transfer equipment.
3. The cost of structural components of one system versus
another.
MAINTENANCE
Of course, keep in mind the future conveyor maintenance. A
system which is less expensive initially will usually require more
maintenance later on.
IN CONCLUSION
There may be more than one right way to utilize TableTop®
chains. Consider the alternatives of length, configuration, width,
speed and cost to design a system which is both economical for
the fabricator and the user.
Rex
®
Engineering Manual TT-1
INTRODUCTION
Rex®TableTop®Chains

STRAIGHT RUNNING CONVEYOR DESIGN
TRANSFER
DRIVE
SPROCKET
SEE PAGE 8
CHAIN
CATENARY
"SAG"
SEE PAGE 7
ENTRY
RADIUS
SEE PAGE 7
RETURN
WEAR STRIP
OR
ROLLER RETURN WAY
SLIDING
RETURN WAY
BROKEN CONTACT
GUIDE RAIL
SUPPORT
TRAVEL
DEAD-PLATE TRANSFER
SEE PAGE 6
TURNABLE
TRANSFER
SEE PAGE 6
IDLER
WHEEL
SEE
PAGE
8
CARRYING WEAR STRIP
CARRYING WAY
CARRYING WAY
RETURN WAY
CHAIN
GUIDE RAIL
Straight running chains were the original TableTop®chains.
They required auxiliary means of transferring around corners
such as the dead plate and turntable shown below. The
illustration on this page shows the basics of a simple straight
running conveyor.
There are many variations on this design, so Rexnord
Engineers are available to assist and make recommendations
for any TableTop®application.
Guide clearance, space between wear strips for proper chain
tracking.
At sprocket-chain flex points, the top
plate kick-up should be taken into
account for the best performance in
product transfer. Especially when
using chains 843, 963, and 3873.
Consult Rexnord for specifics.
TT-2 Rex
®
Engineering Manual
STRAIGHT
RUNNING
CHAINS
Rex®TableTop®Chains

CONVEYOR DESIGN
SIDEFLEXING
STRAIGHT SECTION
CORNER SECTION
RECTANGULAR
CARRYING WAY FOR
TAB CHAIN
BEVEL CARRYING WAY
FOR BEVELED CHAINS
RECTANGULAR
CARRYING WAY FOR
BEVEL OR TAB CHAINS
CHAIN
CARRYING WAY
CARRYING
WEAR STRIP
GUIDE RAIL
RETURN
WAY
RETURN
WEAR STRIP
CHAIN
SLIDING
RETURN WAY
BROKEN CONTACT RECTANGULAR
RETURN WAY
BEVEL
RETURN WAY
STRAIGHT SECTION
ONLY
CORNER and STRAIGHT
SECTION
FOR TAB CHAINS ONLY
CORNER SECTION ONLY
FOR BEVELED CHAINS
The simplicity of the sideflex chain concept eliminates the
need for corner transfers; turntables, dead-plates and
attendant machinery. Rex®sideflexing conveyor chains solve
those conveyor problems where high speed transfers of
product was once a hazardous risk at best - where mass
handling to single-line conveying was a perplexing problem -
where plant layout was sacrificed for lack of design flexibility.
The illustration below shows the basics of a simple sideflexing
conveyor design. Other specifics are shown on Pages 4-8,
TableTop®. Consult Rexnord for additional information:
speeds, inclines, guide rails, etc.; to suit your particular needs.
Guide clearance, space between wear strips for proper chain
tracking.
SIDEFLEXING
CHAIN
Rex®TableTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual TT-3

STRAIGHT RUNS
(For straight running sideflexing (Bevel Tab) chains)
SLIDING RETURN WAY ROLLER
'SERPENTI NE STYLE "
RETURN WAY
MOUNTING
BRACKET
INSIDE
OF
TURN
CORNERS
BEVELED CHAIN
'
OF
TURN
MULTIPLE STRAND CORNERS
TYPICAL
TAB CHAIN
MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
G C * CURVE
INSIDE
TURN
TYPICAL
INSIDE
OF
TURN
Note: Dimensions subject to change. Certified dimensions of ordered material furnished on request.
&
&
INSIDE
1/8" MINIMUM
CLEARANCE 1/4" MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
1/8" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/8" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/8" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/4" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/4" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/4" MIN
CLEARANCE
MOUNTING
BRACKET
1/16"
CLEARANCE
SAFETY
RAIL
3/8"
1/16" - 1/8" TYPICAL
1/16" - 1/8" TYPICAL
*Guide clearances, straight and curve, are shown on individual chain listing
pages.
STRAIGHT RUNS
(For straight running sideflexing (Bevel Tab) chains)
SLIDING RETURN WAY ROLLER
'SERPENTI NE STYLE "
RETURN WAY
MOUNTING
BRACKET
INSIDE
OF
TURN
CORNERS
BEVELED CHAIN
'
OF
TURN
MULTIPLE STRAND CORNERS
TYPICAL
TAB CHAIN
MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
G C * CURVE
INSIDE
TURN
TYPICAL
INSIDE
OF
TURN
Note: Dimensions subject to change. Certified dimensions of ordered material furnished on request.
&
&
INSIDE
1/8" MINIMUM
CLEARANCE 1/4" MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
1/8" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/8" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/8" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/4" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/4" MIN
CLEARANCE
1/4" MIN
CLEARANCE
MOUNTING
BRACKET
1/16"
CLEARANCE
SAFETY
RAIL
3/8"
1/16" - 1/8" TYPICAL
1/16" - 1/8" TYPICAL
*Guide clearances, straight and curve, are shown on individual chain listing
pages.
RETURN WAYS
CARRYING WAYS
Rex®TableTop®Chains
TT-4 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

STRAIGHT RUNNING
(Bevel
STRAIGHT SECTION CORNER
WEAR STRIPS
(Tab
CORNER
STRAIGHT SECTION
INSIDE
OF
TURN
listing pages.
Note: Dimensions subject to change. Certified dimensions of ordered material furnished on request.
1" MIN.
SIDEFLEXING
SIDEFLEXING
Style)
Style)
GC*
GC*
STRAIGHT
GC*
CURVE
GC*
STRAIGHT
GC*
CURVE
CORNER WEAR STRIPS
CORNER WEAR STRIPS
1" MIN. 1" MIN.
1" MIN. 1" MIN.
INSIDE
OF
TURN
1/8" MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
1/4" MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
*Guide clearances, straight and curve, are shown on individual chain
CARRYING WAYS
Rex®TableTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual TT-5

CHAIN
SIDE TRANSFERS
OUTFEED CHAIN
VARIABLE
WIDTH
DEAD-PLATE TRANSFERS
OUTFEED
CHAIN
TURNTABLE TRANSFERS
INFEED
OUTFEED CHAIN
CHAIN
INFEED
1/32" 1/32" 1/32", APPROX.
CHAIN
INFEED
1/32" 1/32"
In the operation of TableTop®chain conveyors, smooth
transfer of the conveyed product from one chain to another
is essential for product protection and prevention of
downtime. The various methods are described below.
Side transfers are the least costly and the preferred method
of product transfer. Although simple in theory, care must be
taken to assure that the chain strands are operating on the
same level or the outfeed chain should be slightly lower.
Guide rail positioning, chain wear strip spacing and chain
speeds must all be adjusted to provide smooth product flow.
A typical dead-plate transfer is shown. For smoothest
operation, the dead-plate should be mounted so that it is
perfectly aligned with or slightly higher than the top surface
of the outfeed chain at the highest chordal position of the
sprocket. It should have a slight bevel and be as narrow as
possible so that the product conveyed transfers on and off
the dead-plate without obstruction.
Flexible dead-plates can "float" with the chordal action of
the chain on the tail sprocket with out producing excessive
wear.
Extreme precautions should be taken to properly install and
adjust dead-plates, particularly rigid dead-plates.
The principles for turntables are basically the same as for
dead-plates. Alignment is vitally important to assure smooth
product transfer. The edge of the turntable is usually beveled.
Turntables should be mounted slightly lower than the infeed
chain and slightly higher than the outfeed chain. This
adjustment should be level to 1/32-inch difference in
elevation.
TRANSFERS
Rex®TableTop®Chains
TT-6 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

RADII - INCHES
All TableTop®chain conveyors should provide for proper amount
of catenary sag to balance the chain tension which is not
absorbed by the drive sprocket teeth. TableTop®chains should
never be run tight. If chain sag is excessive or increases due to
wear, it should be adjusted, by removing links, to the proper
amount of sag. Take-ups are not recommended. If space does
not permit catenary sag, consult Rexnord Corp.
CATENARY SAG
ENTRY RADIUS
A generous entry radius to the return section should be provided.
This permits the chain to feed smoothly onto the return ways.
This curve radius should be greater than the minimum
backflex radius for the chain.
For TAB chains to be returned on hold-down TABs, it is
recommended that chains be guided onto the return wear strips
using a guide shoe or pan with a generous entry radius greater
than the minimum backflex radius.
At the entry to the return wear strips, provide rounded corners to
prevent catching or snagging of chain flights.
ROLLER RETURNS
As illustrated, instead of sliding returns, chain may be returned on
support rollers or shoes. It is important that the first roller or
support shoe be located far enough away from the head sprocket
to allow for proper catenary sag; dimension "A" should be greater
than the distance between rollers, "B".
The preferred diameter of rollers should be at least two times
greater than the minimum backflex radius for the chain. (Refer to
table "Minimum Backflex Radii"). For example, when used with
820 Series chains, roller diameter should be 3 inches or greater.
Roller and support shoe returns are not recommended for
base roller chain design chains.
TRAVEL HEAD
DRIVER
150° MIN. WRAP
ENTRY RADIUS
TAIL
CHAIN SAG -- 3" TO 5" WHEN RUNNING
18" TO 20"
TYPICAL SPACING
NOTE: 2'-3-1/2" FOR 1843
NOTE: 20-24" FOR BASE ROLLER CHAINS
RETURN WEAR
STRIPS
GUIDE WITH PROPER
ENTRY RADIUS
ENTRY
DIRECTION
RELIEF OR RADIUS
ENTRY DIRECTION
Top View
Side View
RETURN
WEAR
STRIPS
MINIMUM BACKFLEX RADII - INCHES
815
820, 831
821
843
845
963
879, 880
6
1/2"
1 1/2"
1 1/2"
6"
18"
6"
1
1/2"
881
882
1843
1873
1874
3873
LBP821
LBP882
LBP883
1
1/2"
1 1/2"
2 1/2"
12"
10"
7"
16"
9"
2"
Chain Series
Number
Min. Backflex
Radius
Chain Series
Number
Min. Backflex
Radius
USE LAST ROLLER OR A
GUIDE SHOE (AS SHOWN
ABOVE) TO GUIDE
SIDEFLEXING CHAIN ONTO CORNER
RETURN WEAR STRIPS
BB
(1 - 2 FT)
A
(1.5 X B)
HEAD
SPROCKET
CORNER
WEAR
STRIPS
NOTE: Allow for 3873 top plate "kick-up" at headshaft of 0.15-
inches and at tailshaft 0.50-inches.
CATENARY SAG
ENTRY RADIUS
ROLLER
RETURNS
Rex®TableTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual TT-7

A chain rises and falls slightly due to a chordal action as it
enters a drive sprocket, or leaves a tail sprocket. Therefore,
the sprocket should be mounted so that the highest point of
the sprocket is no higher than the top of the carrying way
wear strip, otherwise the chain will rise out of the carrying
way. The distance from the end of the wear strip to the
sprocket shaft centerline should equal dimension "B", or the
wear strip will interfere with the free articulation of the chain
as it enters the sprocket. Also, the leading edges of the wear
strip should be beveled.
The following formula and dimensions used in conjunction
with the figure will give the recommended positioning of the
sprocket in relation to the top of the wear strips.
WAY
C *
B
TOP OF WEAR STRIP
A +1/32
-.000
WEAR STRIP
·Recommended distance from chain C to top of wear strip
L
0.094
0.109
0.125
0.141
0.188
0.234
0.266
0.406
0.438
0.468
831
879
815, 820, 821, LBP821, 881
880
882, LBP882, LBP883
843, 845
1843
863, 864, 963, 1873, 3873, 4873
1874, 4874
279
C Values Chain Series Numbers
C = Dimension Values
For Conventional Chains:
A =
(Pitch Diameter)+ C
B = Dimensional Values
2
Chain Series Numbers
B Values. Inches
1
1-1/2
843, 845, 1843
815, 820, 821, 831, 963, 864, 879, 880, 881, 882
1873, 1874, 3873, LBP821, LBP882, LBP883
The idler wheel can be used in place of tail sprockets on
TableTop®one-piece link chain conveyors only. They are
made of an engineering plastic material; are self-lubricating,
and are resistant to most chemical solutions and corrosive
environments. In existing conveyors, the idler wheel can be
installed with only minor conveyor adjustments. Simply take
off the tail sprocket and remove any burrs or sharp edges
from the shaft. Using two set collars, place the idler wheel on
the shaft, space and tighten the set collars. For proper
location and smooth operation, the idler wheel should be
mounted slightly below the top of the wear strips.
Note: Do not use idler wheels with base roller chain design chains.
RECOMMENDED
SET COLLAR
CLEARANCE
1/32"
IN CORROSIVE
ENVIRONMENT
STAINLESS STEEL
SHAFTING RECOMMENDED
**
1-1/2"
A * 1/32
.000
In new conveyors, the idler wheel can easily be incorporated
into the conveyor frame. The shaft does not have to rotate,
therefore bearings are not required.
* Distance from centerline of idler wheel shaft to the chain top plate support surface.
** For abrasive applications, allow at least 3 inches.
"A" Values -- Inches
21T Idler Wheel 23T Idler Wheel 25T Idler Wheel 27T Idler Wheel
2.700 2.940 3.170 3.410
SPROCKET &
WEAR STRIP
POSITIONING
IDLER WHEEL
LOCATION &
POSITIONING
Rex®TableTop®Chains
TT-8 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

SERPENTINE STYLE RETURN FOR
OR
FULL WIDTH RETURN FOR USE
WITH
OR
TAB STYLE RETURN FOR
AND CHAINS
·Sprocket and Wear Track Positioning
Dimension "A" is the dimension from the centerline of the
sprocket to the top of the wear track.
For LBP821 "A" = (P.D. + 0.125) (P.D. = Pitch Diameter)
2
For LBP882 and LBP883 "A" = (P.D. + 0.19)
2
__
+1/32
-0
__
+1/32
-00
Dimension "B" is the dimension from the centerline of the
sprocket to the end of the wear track.
·Transfer Plate Positioning
Dimension "C" is the dimension from the centerline of the
sprocket to the top of the transfer plate.
"C" = ("A" + 7.5)
+0
-1/32
"C" "A"
"B" (1-1/2" -- 2")
(2" -- 4")
(20" -- 24")
MINIMUM ENTRY
RADIUS "R"
Chain No. In. mm
"R"
LBP821
LBP882 TAB
LBP883
16
9
2
406
229
51
FULL WIDTH SLIDING RETURN FOR USE
WITH LBP821, LBP882 TAB, OR LBP883 TAB
SERPENTINE STYLE RETURN FOR
WITH LBP821, LBP882 TAB, OR LBP883 TAB
TAB STYLE RETURN FOR
LBP882 TAB AND LBP883 TAB
Side View Top View
LBP CHAIN
SPROCKET
& WEAR STRIP
POSITIONING
RETURN
CONSTRUCTION
Rex®TableTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual TT-9

An intermediate drive allows a continuous strand of conveyor
chain to operate at longer conveyor centers than possible with a
single drive. Each intermediate drive operates in such a way that
the same strand of chain continues on past the drive to the next
drive.
Two intermediate drive arrangements are:
Tangential Drive
Offset Wrap Drive
TANGENTIAL DRIVE
With this approach the chain, while operating in a straight line, is
engaged by the drive sprocket in a manner similar to a rack and
pinion. Although this approach has a certain degree of simplicity
it has a few shortcomings. First, the entire conveyor system must
be run tight to insure that the chain doesn't "bunch up" after
exiting the sprocket. Second, the chain tends to eject outward
from the sprocket tooth, particularly under high peak loads.
Contact Rexnord Corp. for additional comments.
OFFSET WRAP DRIVE
Unlike a tangential drive, this approach is limited to chains having
sideflexing capability.
Essentially, the unabsorbed chain tension (as well as excess
chain) at the drive sprocket is compensated for by a catenary.
The chain the engages an idler (tail) sprocket or wheel and then
continues on as a carry strand.
OFFSET DRIVE
BASIC DRIVE CONCEPT
DIRECTION OF TRAVEL
GUIDE SHOE
GUIDE SHOE
INLINE TRANSFER
DRIVE
SPROCKET
IDLER
SPROCKET
CURVED
SECTION (S)
CATENARY -- accommodates excess chain and balances drive
sprocket absorbed tension.
SIDE TRANSFER
DRIVE
SPROCKET
IDLER
SPROCKET
CATENARY -- accommodates excess chain and balances drive
sprocket absorbed tension.
SHOES -- (optional) to insure that chain properly disengages drive
sprocket and engages idler sprocket.
INTERMEDIATE
DRIVE
ARRANGEMENTS
Rex®TableTop®Chains
TT-10 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

Rex®MatTop®
Engineering
Manual

Wear Strip Material Selection
Proper chain and wear strip selection will provide
optimum chain and wear strip life. Friction and wear
resistance are two factors which should be considered
when selecting a wear strip material.
1. The lower the coefficient of friction between the chain
and wear strip, the longer the chain life.
2. The greater the wear resistance of the chain and wear
strip materials, the longer the chain life and wear strip
life.
Of course, the combination of chain tension, top load,
type of lubrication, abrasion, and speed of a given
conveyor will govern the final wear rate of a particular
chain-wear strip combination. The worst condition is high
speed, dry operation.
Rexnord has accumulated many years of application
experience as well as laboratory test data on chain-wear
strip compatibility. The following general guideline will
help in the selection wear strip materials.
Metal Wear Strips
Metal wear strips are harder than non-metallics, and in
addition can be heat treated or work hardened to
increase hardness. They are, therefore, suited for
applications where abrasive particles are present either
from the environment or from the products carried.
Abrasive particles are less likely to embed in metal wear
strips.
For non-corrosive environments, plain carbon steel , cold
finished, is recommended. For corrosive environments,
use stainless steel, one quarter temper minimum (25 Rc),
cold finish.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Application Information
If properly selected and applied, chain will wear out in
service before it breaks from fatigue.
Selection of the proper chain for a specific application
requires that all of the following information be known:
·Conveyor length
·Conveyor width
·Wear track material
·Top load (weight per square foot or weight per square
meter)
·Chain speed (feet per minute or meters per minute)
·Operating conditions (dry or lubricated)
·Environment (abrasiveness, temperature, chemical
activity, etc.)
·Accumulation requirements (slippage)
·Attachments required
·Type of transfer plate
Chain Material Selection
Besides temperature and strength factors, ir is important
to consider chemical, wear and impact resistance.
Chemical resistance should be considered for
applications where bleach, acid, etc. are present. HT and
LT materials have the best chemical resistance. Always
consult the chemical resistance chart (Page 4, MatTop®)
or Rexnord if unsure about material - chemical
compatibility. Consider pin material resistance, too.
Impact resistance can be obtained from the LT material.
Moderate to severe impacts are easily handled by LT
whereas LF and HT materials offer small to moderate
resistance.
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
Rex®MatTop®Chains
MT-1 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

STEEL
Plain carbon, cold rolled steel is recommended. Surface
finish should be 32-63 RMS. Use heat treatable grades
where available and hardened to 25-30 Rc. Lubricants
used should have rust inhibitors added.
STAINLESS STEEL
Cold rolled finish (32-63 RMS) is recommended. An
austenitic grade offers the best corrosion resistance.
The softer annealed grades of austenitic stainless steel are
NOT RECOMMENDED, especially with thermoplastic
chains. Interaction between the chain material and the soft
stainless steel might develop. When this happens, the
resulting wear debris consists almost entirely of finely
divided stainless steel particles, nearly black in color, similar
to molydisulfide or graphite. The wear of the stainless steel
might be rapid while the thermoplastic chain by contrast
exhibits only slight wear.
Therefore, ONE QUARTER TEMPER (MINIMUM 25 Rc.)
austenitic grade stainless is recommended for use with
any of the chain materials, but especially with
thermoplastic. Martensitic stainless steels can also be
used. They offer excellent wear resistance when heat
treated to 25-35 Rc, but they are not as corrosion
resistant at austenitic.
BRONZE AND BRASSES
A
hard temper material is recommended since a soft bronze
wears rapidly. Typical applications calling for these metals
are those which require non-sparking and anti-static
conditions. These materials are generally not
recommended.
ALUMINUM
Not recommended due to poor wear resistance.
NON-METALLIC WEAR STRIPS
Non-metallic wear strips have a lower coefficient of friction
than metals. They are generally easier to install and remove
and provide for quieter operation. Ultra high molecular
weight polyethylene is the most commonly used wear strip
material.
ULTRA HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT
POLYETHYLENE UHMWP
UHMWP polyethylene (molecular weight of at least 1.0
million) is recommended for both dry and wet applications.
UHMWP is virtually unaffected by moisture and is resistant
to corrosive chemicals. It is not very rigid and may deflect
when subjected to high loads. UHMWPE is not
recommended for abrasive conditions where particles may
embed in the surface and wear the chain.
TEFLON
This material has perhaps the lowest coefficient of friction
available in a plastic wear strip material. It is soft and tends
to flow off the surface and is not practical as a wear strip
material except in low load - low speed applications.
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
cont.
Rex®MatTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual MT-2

since it does not require machining for bearings. Hence,
this is the least expensive bore or shaft choice.
Square or hex bore sprockets are best suited for high or
low temperature applications. Since thermoplastic chains
will expand or contact with large temperature swings, it is
important that the sprockets be able to move along the
shaft to follow the chain. Only one or more of the
sprockets need to be locked to the shaft to track the
chain; the remaining sprockets may float.
Sprocket material is also an important consideration
especially in the presence of chemicals, abrasives, or
high temperatures. Consult Rexnord for more
information.
Sprocket and Bore Style Selection
Choose the largest sprocket pitch diameter possible
since this will give the greatest chain life. Larger pitch
diameter sprockets cause less chain articulation thus
producing less pin-joint wear. High speed conveyors are
applications where larger pitch diameter sprockets are
desired.
High load applications should also favor larger pitch
diameter sprockets because these sprockets will give
more tooth-chain contact and distribute the load more
evenly.
General conveying applications may use most sprocket
sizes. Product transfer, transfer distance, or retrofit
applications will dictate the sprocket size in most cases.
Round bore sprockets are most commonly used. Round
shafting has a distinct advantage over square shafting
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
cont.
Rex®MatTop®Chains
MT-3 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

CORROSION RESISTANCE GUIDE- CHAIN AND WEAR STRIP MATERIALS
Common or Chemical Name
Solutions contained in the product conveyed as well
as solutions used to clean or lubricate the chain and
equipment may result in corrosive attack of chain
and tracks. Chain and track material have varying
degrees of resistance to corrosion. Use this guide to
help you select chain materials for various corrosive
environments.
With LF/Acetal thermoplastics, do not use cleaning
or lubricating agents with a pH below 4 or above 10,
or chemicals containing chlorine or free ammonia.
These agents may cause immediate attack or
"crazing" after several applications due to
concentration by evaporation.
This table is based on data available by suppliers of
the various materials. For those chemicals with a
marginal or unsatisfactory rating - or for chemicals
not included - contact Rexnord for
recommendations.
Steel
Nylon
and
Nylatron®Austenitic Series
Ferritic*
and
Martensitic
Series
LF
Acetal
and
Acetal
Chemically
Resistant
Plastic
(P)
Ultra High
Molecular
Weight
Polyethylene
(UHMWPE)
Poly-
propylene
(HT)
Poly-
ethylene
(LT)
(DATA BASED UPON 68°f)
Acetic Acid (over 5%-up to 50%
Acetone
Alcohol
Ammonia
Beer
Beverages-Soft Drinks
Benzene
Brine (pickle)
Carbon Tetrachloride
Chlorine
Citric Acid
Cyclohexane
Ethyl Chloride
Formaldehyde
Formic Acid
Fruit Juices
Gasoline
Hexane
Hydrochloric Acid (up to 2%)
Hydrochloric Acid (up to 37%)
Hydrogen Peroxide
Iodine
Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol)
Kepodene
Lactic Acid
Methylene Chloride
Milk
Muriatic Acid
Nitric Acid (low concentrations)
Oil (vegetable or mineral)
Paraffin
Phosphoric Acid (up to 10%)
Soap and Water
Sodium Chloride
Sodium Hydroxide (up to 25%)
Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach)
Stearic Acid
Sulphuric Acid (up to 40%)
Toluene (Toluol)
Turpentine
Vegetable Juices
Vinegar
Water (fresh)
Whiskey
Wine
Xylene
U
U
S
M
S
S
S
U
M
U
U
S
U
S
U
U
U
U
S
S
U
S
U
U
S
S
U
M
U
U
U
U
U
S
M
U
U
S
S
S
M
S
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
U
M
S
S
U
S
U
U
U
U
S
S
M
S
U
U
S
S
U
S
S
U
U
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
S
S
S
S
S
M
M
U
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
U
U
S
U
S
S
S
S
U
U
S
S
S
S
M
S
U
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
M
U
M
S
U
S
S
S
U
U
M
U
S
S
U
S
U
U
S
S
U
S
U
S
U
S
U
S
S
U
S
S
S
S
U
S
S
U
S
S
S
M
S
U
M
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
U
U
U
U
S
S
S
S
S
U
U
S
S
U
S
S
S
U
M
U
M
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
M
S
S
U
M
S
S
M
U
U
S
S
S
M
S
M
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
U
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
M
S
S
U
M
S
S
M
S
S
S
M
S
M
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
M
S
M
S
S
U
M
S
S
M
U
U
S
S
S
M
S
M
S
U
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
U
U
S
S
S
S
S
M
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
cont.
Ch mical
Corrosion
Rex®MatTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual MT-4

TABLE 1 FRICTION FACTORS BETWEEN CHAIN AND WEAR TRACKS (Fw).
Friction Factors Between Chain And Weatherstrips (Fw)
Wear strip Material
Chain Material Lubrication
Condition
Carbon And
Stainless
Steel
UHMWP and
Nylatron®
LF Acetal
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Oil
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Oil
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Oil
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Oil
HP Acetal
LT
(Polyethylene)
HT
(Polyethylene)
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.20
0.18
0.15
0.10
0.22
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.18
0.16
0.14
0.10
0.28
0.22
0.15
0.10
0.23
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.35
0.25
0.20
0.10
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.10
Note: For Roller Support, fw = 0.10
Friction Factors Between Chain And Products (Fm)
Chain Type and Material
Product Material
Lubrication
Condition
Plastic
(Including PET)
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Dry
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Oil
TABLE 2 FRICTION FACTORS BETWEEN CHAIN AND PRODUCTS (Fm).
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Dry
Water
Soap & Water
Paper
Steel
Aluminum
Glass
Returnable
Glass Bottles
Non-Returnable
Glass Bottles
LF Acetal LF Acetal HP Acetal LT
Polyethylene
LT
Polyethylene
HT
Polyethylene
HT
Polyethylene
Solid and
Perforated Top
Solid and
Perforated Top
Solid and
Perforated Top
Raised Top Raised Top Raised Top
Solid and
Perforated Top
0.20
0.18
0.15
0.18
0.14
0.10
0.18
0.16
0.14
0.22
0.19
0.15
0.19
0.16
0.12
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.24
0.20
0.16
0.30 0.22 0.25 0.30 0.25 0.35 0.28
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.16
0.14
0.10
0.08
0.18
0.16
0.13
0.10
0.28
0.22
0.15
0.10
0.25
0.18
0.12
0.08
0.35
0.25
0.20
0.10
0.28
0.20
0.16
0.08
0.20
0.15
0.12
0.13
0.11
0.08
0.18
0.14
0.12
0.22
0.17
0.12
0.20
0.14
0.10
0.28
0.19
0.16
0.22
0.15
0.13
0.15
0.13
0.10
0.12
0.10
0.08
0.14
0.12
0.10
0.18
0.14
0.10
0.14
0.11
0.08
0.22
0.17
0.10
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.20
0.16
0.14
0.16
0.12
0.11
0.18
0.16
0.14
0.27
0.17
0.14
0.19
0.14
0.11
0.29
0.21
0.14
0.27
0.18
0.14
0.15
0.13
0.10
0.12
0.10
0.08
0.13
0.11
0.10
0.18
0.14
0.10
0.14
0.11
0.08
0.22
0.17
0.10
0.20
0.15
0.10
Product Weight Formulas, Round Products Only
Formula for finding number of round containers per square foot (square meter) during fully packed conditions:
Containers per square foot = 166.277 Containers per square meter = 1.15 x 106
D = Container diameter, inches (mm)
D2D2
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
cont.
Chain T nsion
Calculations
Rex®MatTop®Chains
MT-5 Rex
®
Engineering Manual

TYPICAL CONVEYOR CONSTRUCTION
VIEW A - A
GUIDE CLEARANCE
CHAIN WIDTH
+ "A"
Figure 9 - Typical Conveyor Construction
A
A
Calculation of guide clearance "GC" for
MatTop®Conveyors
For conveyors operating at room temperature
(70°F to 21°C);
GC = actual chain width + A (see Table 4 for A)
For conveyors operating at elevated
temperatures one must take thermal
expansion of the chain into account.
The actual width will increase by an
amount that is dependent upon
temperature, chain width, and the
coefficient of thermal expansion of
the plastic.
The coefficient of thermal expansion is:
C
Thermal = 0.001 in (0.15 mm)
Expansion or
m ·°C
Ft ·°F
Dimension "A" Conveyor Length
3/8
5/8
3/4
Up to 30'
30' - 50'
Over 50'
TABLE 4 STANDARD CONVEYOR
GUIDE CLEARANCE
Calculation of "GC" at Elevated Temperatures
Assume a 12ft. wide, 45 ft. lone pasteurizer
operating at an average temperature of 190°F.
1. The increase in the width ( W) due to the
temperature of 190°can be found as shown:
W = W (chain width in Ft or m)
x CThermal Expansion
x T (Temp. diff. from room
temp. of 70°F, 21°C)
W = [12 ft.] x [0.001 in]
x [190°F - 70°F]
Ft ·°F
W = 1.44 in.
2. Allow for the standard clearance, "A",
based upon conveyor length. The conveyor
in the example is 45 ft. long. Table 4 gives
"A" = 5/8 in for conveyors between 30 ft. and 50 ft.
3. The total "GC" for this example is:
GC =12ft. (chain width@ 70°F)
+1.44 in. (expansion due to temperature)
+ 5/8 in. (standard clearance)
GC = 144 in. + 1.44 in. + 0.625 in.
GC = 146.065 146 1/16 in.
~
~
1.
2.
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
cont.
Conv yor
D sign and
Construction
Rex®MatTop®Chains
Rex
®
Engineering Manual MT-6

Carry Way Supports
, TYP
Figure 10 Offset Rail
0 0
000
0000
000
0000
000
0000
000
0000
Figure 12 Solid Bed
NOTE: Openings should be provided for
debris to escape.
Not recom -
mended for wet applications since
a
" suction " can be created between
the chain and bed, especially if
used as a return support.
CHAIN
CHAIN WIDTH
Figure 11 Cheveron or Herring Bone
Figure
13 Roller Supports
NOTE: The rollers must be rigid enough to
resist deflection. Roller beds are not
suitable for all chains or applica
-
tions. Contact Rexnord for additional
information.
3/4" Pitch Chains
1 1/2" Pitch Chains
2 1/4" Pitch Chains
DRef. = 1 1/2"
SRef. = 1 5/8"
DRef. = 2"
SRef. = 2 1/8"
DRef. = 2 1/2"
SRef. = 2 5/8"
6" TYP
2" TYP
CHAIN WIDTH
C CF
L
6"TYP
2" TYP
D
S
SELECTION
PROCEDURE
cont.
Conv yor
D sign and
Construction
Rex®MatTop®Chains
MT-7 Rex
®
Engineering Manual