Flat-Top and Modular Conveyor Chains
Flat-top conveyor chains are specialised chains where the transported product rests directly on the continuous upper surface of the chain — providing stable and hygienic transport. MOVEX offers modular and flat-top chains in multiple series for straight runs and curves.
Chain series overview
| Series | Description | Application | Width range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 815 | Standard flat-top chain | Food, packaging industry | 21–40 mm and wider |
| 881 | Modular chain — Rm=500 mm | Straight runs and curves Rm=500 | 100–214 mm |
| 805 | Flat-top chain | Packaging, food | 21–40 mm |
| 880 | Modular chain for magnetic curves Rm=500 | Magnetic corner tracks | 100–214 mm |
| 882 Tab | Tab chain — Tab curves | Tab curves K750/K1000/K1200 | 200–340 mm |
Technical characteristics
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyamide (PA) — standard; Reinforced polyamide (PA reinforced) — enhanced version |
| Bolts/nuts | Stainless steel (SS) or zinc plated (FeZn) |
| Pitch | 85 mm, 90 mm, 120 mm (depending on series) |
| Widths | Standard: 21, 25, 29, 30, 35, 40 mm (Series 815/805); 100–340 mm (Series 880/881/882) |
| Working temperature | Standard PA: -40°C to +90°C |
| Hygiene class | Suitable for food industry — smooth surfaces, no dirt traps |
Chain return rollers
Return rollers guide the chain smoothly along the return (lower) span of the conveyor. Made from PE (polyethylene). Available in three diameters (D=40, 50, 60 mm), plain, rubber-coated and with flange.
| Part № | Article-Nr. | Description | Shaft ØA | Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 219 | 21901/21903 | Return roller D=40 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø40 mm |
| 201 | 20101/20103 | Return roller D=50 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø50 mm |
| 202 | 20201/20203 | Return roller D=60 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø60 mm |
| 220 | 22001/22003 | Return roller rubber-coated D=47 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø47 mm |
| 203 | 20301/20303 | Return roller rubber-coated D=57 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø57 mm |
| 204 | 20401/20403 | Return roller rubber-coated D=67 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø67 mm |
| 222 | 22201/22203 | Return roller with flange D=40 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø40 mm, L=85.5 mm |
| 224 | 22401/22403 | Return roller with flange D=50 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø50 mm, L=85.5 mm |
| 226 | 22601/22603 | Return roller with flange D=60 mm | 16/20 mm | Ø60 mm, L=85.5 mm |
Drive Sprockets (Ingranaggi / Kettenräder)
The drive sprocket is one of the most critical components of a conveyor system. It transmits rotary motion from the drive shaft to the chain. A well-designed sprocket ensures smooth chain running, reduced noise and vibration, and extended system life.
All MOVEX sprockets are split (two halves) for easy installation and removal from the shaft without dismantling the full chain. All surfaces and edges are smooth for easy cleaning and hygiene compliance. Material: polyamide (PA) or reinforced polyamide — optimal wear life and chemical resistance.
Series 815 — Molded sprockets
Molded sprockets are the economical solution for standard applications. Series: 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507.
| Sprocket series | Article examples | Bore (mm) | dp (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 502 | 50251–50254 | 21/25/29/25–40 | 129.3–153.2 |
| 503 | 50350–50354 | 25/30/35/40 | 129.0–154.0 |
| 504 | 50451–50454 | 25/30/35/40 | — |
| 505 | 50550–50554 | 18*/25/30/35/40 | — |
| 506 | 50651–50654 | 25/30/35/40 | — |
| 507 | 50750–50754 | 18*/25/30/35/40 | — |
Series 815 — Machined sprockets (PA reinforced)
Machined sprockets in reinforced polyamide offer higher strength and precision. Series: 512, 513, 514, 515, 516, 517.
| Sprocket series | Article examples | Bore (mm) | dp 1 (mm) | dp 2 (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 512 | 51251–51254 | 21/25/29/25–40 | 129.3 | 129.0 |
| 513 | 51350–51354 | 25/30/35/40 | 153.2 | 154.0 |
| 514 | 51451–51454 | 25/30/35/40 | 177.2 | 178.5 |
| 515 | 51550–51554 | 18*/25/30/35/40 | — | — |
| 516 | 51651–51654 | 25/30/35/40 | — | — |
| 517 | 51750–51754 | 18*/25/30/35/40 | — | — |
Series 880/881 — Sprockets (molded and machined)
Series: 820–831. Split molded and machined sprockets for Rm=500 mm chains.
| Series | Type | Part № | Article-Nr. | Teeth | Bore (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 820–831 | Molded | 545–548 | 54501–54804 | 9–12 | 25/30/35/40 |
| 820–831 | Machined PA reinforced | 545–548 | 54501–54804 | 9–12 | 25/30/35/40 |
| 820–831 | Split idler | 545–548 | 54550–54854 | 9–12 | 18*/25/30/35/40 |
Diameters: Series 545 (9 teeth): dp=111.4/110.0 mm | Series 546 (10 teeth): dp=123.3/122.0 mm | Series 547 (11 teeth): dp=135.2/135.0 mm | Series 548 (12 teeth): dp=147.2/147.3 mm.
Sprockets with Guide (Ruote Flangiate)
Guide sprockets are intended for applications requiring lateral chain retention. Part: 545, 546, 547, 548 — machined.
Key Advantages of the MOVEX System
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Split design | All sprockets are in two halves — fitted/removed without dismantling the shaft or chain |
| Polyamide and PA reinforced | Optimal material: high strength, low friction, chemical and wear resistance |
| Smooth surfaces | All edges and surfaces are smooth — easy cleaning, hygienic operation |
| SS bolts | Stainless steel bolts allow easy re-assembly even after years of operation |
| Complete system | Chain, sprockets and all components are engineered together — optimal engagement and longevity |
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between molded and machined sprockets?
Molded sprockets are cast in a mould — more economical, suitable for standard applications. Machined sprockets (PA reinforced) are precision-machined — higher tooth profile accuracy, better chain engagement, longer service life under intensive use or more aggressive conditions.
Why are MOVEX sprockets split into two halves?
The split design allows the sprocket to be fitted and removed directly from the shaft without dismantling the entire chain or drive shaft. This significantly reduces maintenance time — especially important for long conveyor lines.
Which chain series are compatible with Series 880/881 magnetic curves?
Magnetic corner tracks Series 880/881 (Rm=500 mm) are compatible with chains Series 880 and 881. Drive sprockets for these chains are Series 545–548 (9–12 teeth, dp=111–147 mm, bores Ø25–Ø40 mm).
Can polyamide sprockets be used in wet conditions?
Yes — polyamide (PA) is resistant to water and water-based solutions. For intensive wet cleaning with aggressive detergents, PA reinforced or steel sprockets are recommended. Note: after hot steam cleaning, PA may absorb slight moisture — account for this when calculating shaft tolerances.
How do I choose the right sprocket bore?
The sprocket bore must match the diameter of the drive shaft. Standard sizes: Ø18 (special), Ø25, Ø30, Ø35, Ø40 mm. If the shaft diameter differs, the sprocket can be bored out to the required size.