How does a plate chain conveyor line, through its high-strength structural design, support the continuous conveying of large refrigerators?
Publish Time: 2025-09-11
In the automated assembly of large electromechanical products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines, the conveying system plays a key role in connecting various processes and ensuring material flow. Plate chain conveyor lines, with their robust structure, strong load-bearing capacity, and stable operation, are the preferred solution for the continuous conveying of heavy appliances. Large refrigerators, weighing over 100 kg, undergo multiple stages throughout the assembly line, including foaming, vacuuming, testing, and packaging, placing extremely high demands on the strength and reliability of the conveying equipment. Through its scientific, high-strength structural design, the plate chain conveyor line effectively withstands the challenges of long-term heavy loads, frequent starts and stops, and complex operating conditions, ensuring an efficient and smooth production process.1. Selecting a high-load-bearing chain and plate chain structureThe core load-bearing components of a plate chain conveyor line are the chain and plate chain. To meet the conveying requirements of large refrigerators, heavy-duty roller chains or multi-row plate chains are typically used as traction elements. These chains feature a large pitch, thick pins, and thick chain plates, providing excellent tensile strength and impact resistance. Chains are typically made of high-quality alloy steel and tempered to enhance overall mechanical properties. Chain plates are stamped from cold-rolled or stainless steel sheets, typically ranging in thickness from 4–8 mm. They offer a smooth surface and high rigidity, providing a stable support for the refrigerator chassis or the entire appliance. Some critical workstations also utilize double chain plates or reinforced ribs to enhance localized strength in stress-intensive areas, preventing deformation or breakage from long-term loads.2. Strengthening the frame and support structure to ensure overall stabilityThe conveyor line frame is the basic framework that supports the weight of the chain, chain plates, and workpieces. For heavy appliance applications, plate chain lines typically utilize rectangular steel tubes or C-section steel for the main support structure, welded or bolted together to create a stable overall structure. Adjustable feet at the bottom of the frame facilitate leveling on uneven surfaces, preventing chain deviation or jamming due to torsional stress. For long-distance conveying, intermediate support beams or rollers are installed at regular intervals to effectively prevent chain sagging, reduce running resistance, and ensure smooth operation of the entire line even under full load. Furthermore, the frame surface is sprayed with plastic or galvanized for excellent corrosion and wear resistance, adapting to complex factory environments such as oil, dirt, and humidity.3. Optimizing the drive and tensioning system to improve power transmission efficiencyHeavy-duty plate chain conveyor lines are typically equipped with a high-power reduction motor as the drive unit, with sufficient output torque to overcome static friction and inertial loads during startup. The drive unit directly drives the main shaft via sprockets or gears, ensuring efficient and reliable power transmission. Furthermore, the tensioning mechanism, using a screw or weight design, can flexibly adjust the chain tension, compensate for elongation due to long-term use, and prevent tooth skipping, slipping, or chain derailment. Some high-end production lines also integrate automatic tensioning devices that monitor chain status in real time and dynamically adjust to maintain constant tension, extending service life.4. Modular Design Supports Flexible Configuration and MaintenancePlate chain conveyor lines utilize a modular assembly method. The length of each standard unit can be customized based on process requirements, typically 1.5 meters, 2 meters, or 3 meters. This design not only facilitates transportation and on-site installation, but also supports future expansion or reconfiguration to accommodate capacity changes. Modules are interconnected using quick-connect connectors, with standardized electrical and mechanical interfaces, significantly shortening commissioning cycles. If a section malfunctions, it can be disassembled and repaired independently without disrupting overall line operation, improving system maintainability and production continuity.5. Integrated Auxiliary Functions Ensure Safety and Precision ConveyingTo meet the unique requirements of refrigerator assembly, plate chain lines often incorporate a variety of auxiliary equipment. For example, guide wheels or side guards are installed at curves to prevent heavy loads from shifting. Positioning blocks or pneumatic locking devices are installed at key workstations to ensure precise positioning of refrigerators during assembly and testing. Some lines are also equipped with overload protectors that automatically shut down the machine in the event of an abnormal jam, preventing equipment damage. The control system utilizes a PLC for centralized management, coupled with photoelectric sensors for workpiece arrival detection, speed adjustment, and fault alarms, comprehensively enhancing its intelligent capabilities.In summary, the plate chain conveyor line, with its high-strength chain, sturdy frame, reliable drive, and modular design, creates a stable, durable, and efficient heavy-load conveying platform fully capable of continuously conveying large refrigerators. It is not only the "artery" of the production line but also a crucial foundational equipment for the automated, scalable, and lean manufacturing of home appliance manufacturing.
