Understanding Chain and Belt Guards |
Posted: November 8, 2021 |
When it comes to industrial industries, two things stand out. First, safety comes before anything else. Second, they all use different types of machinery, equipment, and tools. For example, the material handling industry relies on conveyor systems, whether chain or belt-driven. Regardless, these companies must have belt or chain drive guards installed to stay compliant with current laws and regulations. Just like ladder and machine guards, drive guards serve as protective barriers. Now, for companies that process materials, these safety devices not only keep operators safe but also the conveyor systems and even the items processed. Whether mandated or not, installing chain or belt drive guards makes perfect sense. What Makes Belt and Chain Drive Guards Unique?While both chain and belt drive guards serve much the same purpose, they’re different. That’s because they accommodate different types of conveyor systems. Chain DrivesMaterial handling companies rely on chain drives to move products that don’t typically convey on rollers. That includes things like car and truck frames, racking systems, wrong-way pallets, and so on. In other words, a company would use a chain-driven system for anything that requires a sturdier conveying surface. Although a low-maintenance option, it’s still important to install the correct drive guards. That way, an operator wouldn’t come into contact with the chains or the pulley system. Unfortunately, an incident like that can cause serious injury. Instead, having a guard in place allows them to perform optimally and safely. Belt DrivesLooking at the two options, companies use a belt-driven conveyor system to move products a further distance than what a chain system can handle. While this particular method ranks among the easiest to use, it still requires the best drive guards. Again, it’s mandated by law but also necessary to protect workers. Comparing belt and chain drive guards, those for a belt system are probably more critical. The reason is that products travel a much greater distance. As a result, they could go through additional machine processes along the way. Each of those increases the overall safety risk. The biggest threat for a chain-driven system is hair getting caught in the chains or pulley. As for belt-driven systems, operators worry the most about getting their fingers crushed. Regardless of the drive guards, they should run the entire distance of the conveyor. Also, the best guards overhang, which enhances this protective barrier. Customized SafetyRegardless if you need belt drive guards or chain drive guards, you can always count on us at Belt Conveyor Guarding for a superior and cost-effective product. Since every conveyor system is unique, we can even customize a safety product. Give us a call today to learn more about our remarkable solutions.
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