Standard and nickel-plated chains for adverse operating conditions
Standard and nickel-plated chains for adverse operating conditionsKeywords: Tsubaki, Plating,Steel, Corrosion
Tsubaki's new DP series is claimed to be an environmentally friendly chain that offers significantly improved anti-corrosion performance in harsh environments, compared to zinc-plated and nickel-plated chains. In tests, DP treated chain are reported to have endured salt-water (brine) spray for more than 500 hours, providing five times the anti-corrosion performance of zinc-plated chain and 20 times the performance of nickel-plated types.
According to Tsubaki, its DP Chain (see Plate 1) is the ideal solution where carbon steel chains must be replaced frequently, due to excessive corrosion, or where plated chain is flaking and causing problems. It claims the same strength and wear resistance as standard carbon steel chain, but a "double plating"(DP) surface finish, prior to assembly, is said to mean that its corrosion resistance is much improved when compared to standard roller chains,nickel-plated chains and even zinc-plated chains.
Plate 1 Tsubaki's environmentally friendly DP chain can provide 20 times the life of standard and nickel-plated chains in adverse operating conditions
The "double plating" process involves the chain being galvanised and then surface treated with a special coating to protect against corrosive environments. The coating is stated not to reduce chain strength, it reportedly adheres well, is very smooth and is difficult to scratch. Furthermore, its application does not involve the use of chromium, so the process is considered by the manufacturers to be environmentally safe. Tsubaki believes that, in environmental terms, this is ground-breaking technology and is in-line with the increasing regulation of harmful materials worldwide. The use of chromium, as a material for surface treatment to prevent rusting, is gradually being restricted. The company has recognised the importance of this development, and it claims that its newest chain contains no harmful chromium as a result,corresponding fully to the needs of the twenty-first century.
DP chain is available in both roller and conveyor versions. Its claimed corrosion performance, including resistance to acid rain and other adverse weather conditions, is thought to make it extremely reliable for outdoor use. This reportedly means that the chain can be used with confidence on such equipment as vertical parking systems, seafood processing machines, car washers,case washers and water treatment plants.
DP chain is claimed to be equally suitable for use in indoor applications on such equipment as industrial washing plant, canning and bottling lines, and food-processing applications where the product does not come into direct contact with the chain.
Details available from: Tsubaki UK Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 1623 688788; Fax: +44(0) 688789; E-mail: sales@tsubaki.co.uk;Web site: www.tsubakimoto.co.jp
