Eliminate Stick‑Slip on Long Conveyors with Bearing‑Roller Chains

Extra‑long conveyors present unique operational challenges, especially when running at slow speeds below 10 m/min. A common issue is stick‑slip – a longitudinal vibration of the chain that can halt production and erode product quality.

Stick‑slip occurs when the chain’s contact surfaces alternately stick and then slide. In a roller‑chain drive, the load on the outer bushing and inner roller surface rises until static friction is overcome. Once the parts slip, the load drops, the roller accelerates briefly, and the cycle repeats, creating a vibrating motion along the line.

Repeated stick‑slip can be costly. It forces shutdowns for inspection and maintenance, and in processes that require uniform cooling – such as aluminum ingot production for engine blocks – the vibration induces waves in the molten metal. This results in uneven ingots, increased rejection rates, and a rapid spike in scrap costs.

Typical Fixes – Short‑Term Relief

Operators often add lubrication or increase sprocket tooth count. These measures can lessen stick‑slip, but the effect is usually modest and temporary.

Long‑Term Solutions

Two proven strategies are:

• Raise conveyor speed or segment the line to reduce chain length.
• Replace standard chains with bearing‑roller chains. By eliminating internal friction, bearing rollers keep the chain running almost frictionlessly, virtually erasing stick‑slip even on long, slow conveyors.

Benefits of bearing‑roller chains extend beyond vibration control: they lower chain tension, reduce motor power requirements, cut rail wear, and extend chain life. While the initial purchase price is higher, the savings from reduced scrap, downtime, and maintenance quickly offset the cost.

In a highly competitive manufacturing environment, every minute and every dollar matters. Choose a bearing‑roller chain to keep your line running smoothly and protect your reputation for quality.

Kevin Breadner – Technical Sales Representative, Tsubaki of Canada Ltd., Mississauga, ON

Original article on the MRO Website