Top Chains Used in Packaging Machinery and Conveyor Systems
Why Chains Are Critical in Packaging Equipment
Packaging machinery consists of multiple moving components that must operate in perfect synchronization. Chains provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for both power transmission and material handling. In packaging systems, chains are commonly used for:
• Driving packaging equipment
• Conveying products between processing stages
• Positioning products for labeling and sealing
• Synchronizing machine movements
• Handling cartons, bottles, cans, and packages
Compared with belts or direct-drive systems, chains deliver several key advantages: high transmission efficiency, precise synchronization, superior durability, and design flexibility.
Roller Chain
Precision roller chains are among the most commonly used chains in packaging machinery. They are primarily used for power transmission applications where accurate synchronization and reliable operation are required.
Common Roller Chain Sizes Used in Packaging Equipment
The most frequently used ANSI roller chain sizes include:
The specific roller chain size depends on equipment speed, load requirements, and operating conditions.
In many packaging industries, equipment operates in environments where moisture, chemicals, cleaning agents, or strict hygiene standards are present. Under these conditions, stainless steel chains offer significant advantages over standard carbon steel chains.
Stainless steel chains are widely used in: Food packaging plants, Beverage production facilities, Pharmaceutical manufacturing, Cosmetic packaging lines, Dairy processing operations, Frozen food packaging systems. These industries often require frequent washdowns and corrosion-resistant components.
Attachment Conveyor Chains
Many packaging applications require more than simple power transmission. Products often need to be pushed, indexed, separated, or positioned accurately throughout the packaging process. This is where attachment conveyor chains become essential.
What Are Attachment Chains?
Attachment chains are roller chains equipped with special attachments mounted on the chain plates.
These attachments allow the chain to perform additional functions.
Common attachment types include:
• A Attachments
• K Attachments
• Extended Pin Attachments
• Bent Attachments
Double Pitch Conveyor Chains
Double pitch conveyor chains are widely used in packaging lines that require long conveying distances and relatively light loads. These chains are similar to standard roller chains but feature a pitch that is twice the length of standard chains.
Why Use Double Pitch Chains?
The extended pitch design offers several advantages.
Reduced Weight
Fewer chain components are required, resulting in a lighter chain.
Lower Cost
The reduced number of components helps lower manufacturing costs.
Longer Conveyor Lengths
Double pitch chains are particularly suitable for extended conveying systems.
Reduced Sprocket Wear
The larger pitch reduces engagement frequency, which may help extend sprocket life.
Common Double Pitch Chain Types
• Standard Roller Type
• Large Roller Type
• Attachment Double Pitch Chain
• Stainless Steel Double Pitch Chain
Flat Top Chain VS Table Top Chain
Flat Top Chain
Flat Top Chains feature a flat conveying surface designed to provide stable support for products moving through a conveyor system.
Table Top Chain
Table Top Chains are designed with interconnected plates that create a continuous conveying surface. Many models support side-flexing movement, allowing products to travel through curved conveyor layouts.
Flat Top Chain vs Table Top Chain Comparison
| Feature | Flat Top Chain | Table Top Chain |
| Main Products Conveyed | Cartons, Trays, Boxes | Bottles, Cans, Containers |
| Load Capacity | Higher | Medium |
| Curve Capability | Limited | Excellent |
Conveyor Layout | Straight | Straight and Curved |
Typical Industry | Carton Packaging | Beverage Packaging |
Which Chain Should You Choose?
Choose Flat Top Chains if:
You convey cartons or boxes.
Heavy package handling is required.
The conveyor layout is primarily straight.
Choose Table Top Chains if:
You handle bottles or cans.
Curved conveyor layouts are necessary.
High-speed product flow is required.
Many modern packaging facilities use both chain types in different sections of the same production line.
Gripper Chains for Packaging Machinery
Gripper Chains are specialized conveyor chains designed to hold, position, and transport products with exceptional accuracy.
Unlike standard conveyor chains, Gripper Chains use specially designed gripping mechanisms that securely control product movement during packaging operations.
How Gripper Chains Work
Gripper Chains utilize gripping elements such as:
• Rubber pads
• Spring clips
• Mechanical fingers
• Custom gripping attachments
These components hold products firmly while allowing precise movement through packaging processes.
Gripper chains ensure precise, secure product handling: higher packaging accuracy, faster production, less product damage, stable item control, smoother machine running, and lower downtime.
Other Specialized Chains Used in Packaging Machinery
Although less common than the chain types discussed above, several specialized chains are also used in packaging applications.
Silent Chains
Silent Chains are designed for low-noise, high-speed power transmission. They are commonly found in precision packaging equipment where smooth operation is critical.
Modular Plastic Chains
Modular Plastic Chains are widely used in beverage, pharmaceutical, and food packaging facilities. Their modular construction simplifies maintenance and cleaning.
Maintenance-Free Chains
These chains utilize self-lubricating components and are often used in clean environments or locations where lubrication is difficult.
How to Choose the Right Chain for Packaging Machinery
Selecting the right chain depends on your application requirements.
| Application | Recommended Chain Type |
| Power Transmission | Precision Roller Chain |
| Product Posistioning | Attachment Conveyor Chain |
| Long Conveyor Systems | Double Pitch Conveyor Chain |
Food and Beverage Packaging | Stainless Steel Chain |
Bottle Conveying | Table Top Chain |
Carton Handling | Flat Top Chain |
Precision Product Control | Gripper Chain |
When evaluating chain options, you should consider chain load capacity, operating speed, environmental conditions, conveyor layout, maintenance requirements, and product type.
Choosing the correct chain can significantly improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and lower operating costs.
Looking for Packaging Machinery Chains?
CTS provides a comprehensive range of industrial chains for packaging and conveying applications, including:
• ANSI Roller Chains
• Stainless Steel Chains
• Attachment Conveyor Chains
• Double Pitch Conveyor Chains
• Custom Conveyor Chains
• Gripper Chain Solutions
Whether you need standard products or customized chain solutions, our engineering team can help you find the right chain for your packaging equipment. Contact CTS today to discuss your project requirements.
