Rexnord MatTop, Conversion Manual, Page: 6 / 16

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1.2 WHY CHANGE?
In processing lines currently several system are being used in combination with 2-
inch pitch food grade Modular belting/MatTop chains:
1. Flighted chains with static side guides
2. Flighted chains with conventional sidegaurds (Loose ele
ments to the chain)
3. Fligthed chains in combination with Integrated (or Molded-In)
side-gaurds
Although the functionality of all these systems should be the same; bringing product
to a higher or lower level on an inclined or declined conveyor, in the fi eld they have
their own specifi c issues causing down time and product loss.
CURRENT SYSTEMS
Static guides
Conveyors with static guides trap the product
between the moving plastic modular belt/chain
and stationary PE or stainless steel side walls
that are mounted to the conveyor. This results
in several disadvantages:
•
More expensive conveyor construction because of the additional material
needed to create the static guides and mounting supports.
•
Installation and adjustment of the guides is time consuming and can be fairly
complicated.
o The guides need to be mounted, but also carefully adjusted in relation
to the position of the pusher attachment. If the guides are too far away
from the pusher attachment excessive amounts of product can escape
downwards in between the guide and the pusher.
o If the guides are too high in relation to the belt surface product can es
cape out the side of the conveyor. However, if the static guides are to
close to the chain or to the pusher, they can jam the chain or wear out
the chain surface.