Linear Chain - but mechanical! Application in high-lift charging trolleys for vacuum furnaces

In standard applications, Linear Chains can be operated with a speed of 250mm/s. Special applications have already been implemented with speeds exceeding 800mm/s.

Yes, the use of stainless steel materials is a common practice for environments with aggressive media.

Yes, depending on the proximity to the product, the chain can also be completely made of stainless steel.

1. When under pressure load: depending on the control, 100% repeatability can be achieved.
2. Under changing loads: the control system must consider the backlash at the sprocket and manufacturing tolerances in the chain links.

1. The load must always be guided
2. Acceleration should be controlled via a ramp
3. The chain cannot perform a swiveling movement
4. The permissible buckling length must not be exceeded

No, within the buckling range, Linear Chains can also be used without guidance.

1. Electronic bridge: If each lifting element of the system is driven by a motor, electronic synchronization can be achieved through encoders.
2. Mechanical linkage: More cost-effective and fail-safe are cardan shafts and bevel gearboxes, which can connect all lifting elements of a system together.

The polygon effect occurs when a chain is positively driven by a sprocket. In this case, the chain cannot run perfectly circularly on and off the sprocket, causing deviations in the path of the traction medium. The speed of the chain then fluctuates periodically around a mean speed, which can manifest as vibrations in the chain.

Since the chain undergoes radial movement due to the polygon effect, the guide plates are extended, and minimal play is allowed. This helps mitigate this effect.

No, swiveling movements are not possible with the Linear Chain.

65% with chain magazine, 80% with free chain.

No, the load must always be guided.

There is no calculation basis for this. The buckling length has been determined through tests. You can find a corresponding diagram for horizontal applications here: General Catalog 2023 (grob-antriebstechnik.de). For vertical applications, please contact us.

No, a Linear Chain can never take over the guiding itself. The load must be guided.

1. Lubrication system: attached lubrication brushes extend the lifespan.
2. Chain magazine: the chain can be rolled up behind the housing.
3. Reduction gear: especially useful in lifting systems to reduce torque through gears.
4. Force sensor: for measuring axial load and protection against overload.

We always recommend using our standard link to connect your load. Utilize all the holes to ensure proper loading of the chain. Dimensions for the front link can be found here: General Catalog

As standard, GROB chains are galvanized. For environments with aggressive media, stainless steel chains can be used.

1. Standard: 180°C (356°F)
2. High-temperature continuous: 550°C (1022°F)
3. High-temperature short-term (under 2 minutes): 1050°C (1922°F)

1. The load must be guided
2. The Linear Chain size must be chosen correctly
3. It should be driven over a ramp

Yes, hardened chain links achieve a lifespan four times longer.

1. A chain magazine winds the chain in multiple circular paths. Advantage: greater space saving.
2. A chain cover protects the chain attached to the housing. Due to the attachment, the chain aligns itself and thus halves the stroke length. Advantage: more cost-effective.

Yes, the chain can be stored perpendicular to the lifting movement, such as 90°, or even 180° (parallel) to the lifting movement, as in the case of tool tables. The lift then operates on the table, while the storage runs parallel underneath it.

The T-guide was developed when space for the standard rail above the sliding surface was lacking. In one application example, the customer needed to maneuver with a forklift. The T-guide rail was then embedded in the floor, allowing the vehicles to continue maneuvering undisturbed.

No, you should provide a brake on the motor.

Check for dirt or worn-out parts. Thorough cleaning and, if necessary, replacement of damaged components may solve the problem. If the Linear Chain is noisy after acquisition, system tensions could be responsible.

The different installation positions do not affect the usability of Linear Chains (e.g., through oil sight glasses or similar). By simply changing the mounting side of the mounting brackets, the mounting sides can be adjusted as needed.

There's no calculation basis for this. Tests have shown that for standard chains, 250,000 cycles, and for hardened chains, 1,000,000 cycles represent realistic values.