Tubular drag conveyor is also known as Tubular Drag Chain Conveyor. The chains of this type are mainly divided into three types: steel rope, ring chain, and plate chain.
Steel Rope: It can be used in both flat and three-dimensional arrangements. The discs cannot be replaced. If 3 to 4 adjacent discs are damaged, the entire Steel Rope and the discs need to be replaced.
Ring Chain: Can be used in both planar and three-dimensional arrangements. The discs can be replaced.
Plate Chain: Can only be used on a flat surface, not for three-dimensional arrangement. The plates can be replaced, and the failure rate is lower than that of the chain.
Tubular Drag Conveyor Chain Type Comparison
| Comparison Item | Steel Rope Type | Ring Chain Type | Plate Chain Type |
| Structural Design | Multi-strand steel rope with discs | Alloy steel round link chain with discs | Heavy-duty steel plate chain with links and pins |
| Flexibility | Very high | Very high | Low |
| Bending Capability | Small bending radius, excellent for multiple bends | Big bending radius, not suitable for multiple bends | Low flexibility, not suitable for tight bends |
| Layout | Suitable for complex layouts with multiple bends along the X, Y, and Z axes | Suited for straight or simple layouts | Ideal for straight or moderate bends |
| Conveying Distance | Medium | Long | Medium to Long |
| Chain Load Capacity Per Unit Length | Medium | High | High |
| Capacity | Medium capacity | Large capacity | High |
| Impact Resistance | Medium | High | Very High |
| Wear Resistance | Medium | High | Very High |
| Suitable Materials | Powders, granules, mildly abrasive materials | Abrasive, high-density materials | Abrasive, heavy-duty materials, large bulk materials |
| Recommended Applications | Limited space, multiple bends, high flexibility required | Heavy-duty, long-distance, continuous operation |
Heavy-duty, high load capacity, long operational life |
If you are struggling to choose the right Tubular Drag Conveyor for your needs, and are confused about the applicable scenarios of plate chains, loop chains, and steel wire ropes, please feel free to contact us at any time. We have been specializing in the Tube Chain Conveyor field for several years and are well-versed in the core differences among these three types of chains. We can work with you to provide a one-on-one precise selection and customize a tailored solution based on your conveying distance, material characteristics, site layout, and production capacity requirements. Additionally, we offer chain replacement, maintenance guidance, and after-sales support to help you avoid selection mistakes, improve conveying efficiency, and extend the service life of the equipment.
