American Standard Idler Sprockets

a. Ball bearing idler sprockets Harden teeth High speed


35BB20H, 40BB17H, 40BB18H, 50BB15H,


50BB17H, 60BB13H, 60BB15H, 80BB12H


b. Bronze bushed idler sprockets


31E20, 41E15, 51E15, 61E14

What are the advantages of using idler sprockets in certain conveyor systems?

Idler sprockets offer several advantages in certain conveyor systems, particularly in chain-driven systems:

• Tension Control: Idler sprockets help maintain proper tension in the conveyor chain, which is essential for smooth and efficient power transmission. They act as tensioning points, ensuring that the chain remains properly engaged with the drive sprocket, reducing the risk of chain slack and skipping.
• Reduced Wear: By guiding the conveyor chain in the correct path and minimizing side-to-side movement, idler sprockets help reduce wear and fatigue on both the chain and the sprockets, increasing their lifespan and reducing maintenance requirements.
• Quiet Operation: Idler sprockets with well-designed teeth profiles and smooth surfaces contribute to quieter operation in conveyor systems, which is crucial in environments where noise reduction is a concern.
• Increased Efficiency: Properly placed idler sprockets can improve the overall efficiency of the conveyor system by reducing friction and energy losses. This, in turn, can lead to energy savings and lower operating costs.
• Directional Change: In certain conveyor layouts, idler sprockets are used to change the direction of the conveyor chain, allowing the material flow to be redirected efficiently.
• Customization: Idler sprockets can be designed and manufactured to fit specific conveyor system requirements, allowing for greater flexibility and customization in conveyor design.

It’s important to note that while idler sprockets offer many advantages, their proper selection, installation, and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and longevity in conveyor systems.

Can idler sprockets be used in food processing and packaging conveyors?

Yes, idler sprockets can be used in food processing and packaging conveyors. However, when using idler sprockets in such applications, there are several important considerations to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain hygienic conditions:

1. Material Selection: Choose idler sprockets made from food-grade materials that are approved for use in food processing environments. Stainless steel is a common choice due to its corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
2. Sanitary Design: Look for idler sprockets with a sanitary design that minimizes crevices and hard-to-clean areas where food particles or contaminants could accumulate.
3. Easy Disassembly: Select idler sprockets that can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning and sanitation during routine maintenance.
4. Food-safe Lubricants: Use food-grade lubricants on the idler sprockets to ensure that there is no contamination of the food product.
5. Clean-in-Place (CIP) Systems: If possible, consider using idler sprockets that are compatible with Clean-in-Place (CIP) systems to facilitate efficient and effective cleaning of the conveyor.
6. Regular Cleaning and Inspection: Implement a regular cleaning and inspection schedule for the idler sprockets to maintain cleanliness and identify any signs of wear or damage that may require attention.
7. Compliance: Ensure that the idler sprockets and the entire conveyor system comply with relevant food safety standards and regulations, such as those set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other local health authorities.
8. Training: Provide proper training to personnel working with the conveyor system to ensure they understand the importance of food safety and the correct procedures for maintaining a hygienic environment.
9. Traceability: If applicable, choose idler sprockets from manufacturers that provide traceability of their materials and production processes to meet food safety requirements.

By adhering to these considerations, idler sprockets can be used effectively and safely in food processing and packaging conveyors, helping to maintain the quality and integrity of food products while complying with food safety standards.

What are the common applications of idler sprockets in different industries?

Idler sprockets are widely used in various industries where power transmission systems are employed. Some common applications include:

• Conveyor Systems: Idler sprockets are extensively used in conveyor systems to guide and support the conveyor chain or belt. They help maintain proper tension and alignment, ensuring smooth and efficient material handling in industries such as manufacturing, food processing, mining, and logistics.
• Agricultural Machinery: In agricultural equipment, idler sprockets are utilized in combine harvesters, balers, and other farming machinery to guide and support the drive chains. They play a crucial role in providing reliable power transmission for various agricultural processes.
• Mechanical Engineering: Idler sprockets are found in numerous mechanical engineering applications, including machine tools, industrial automation, and robotics. They contribute to the precise and reliable movement of chains or belts in these systems.
• Automotive Industry: Within the automotive sector, idler sprockets are commonly used in timing belt systems. They help maintain proper tension and synchronization of the timing belt, ensuring the smooth operation of the engine’s valves and camshafts.
• Printing and Packaging: In printing machines and packaging equipment, idler sprockets are utilized to guide and support chains or belts, ensuring precise and consistent movement of materials during the printing and packaging processes.

These are just a few examples of the many industries where idler sprockets find application. Their versatility, reliability, and ability to provide proper tension and alignment make them an essential component in various power transmission systems across different sectors.

editor by CX 2024-03-25