Types of Conveyor Chains & How to Choose the Correct One

Selecting the right conveyor chain is essential for ensuring efficient product handling, reliable operation, and long-term performance. With a wide range of chain designs available, choosing the correct option depends on factors such as the products being moved, operating environment, conveyor layout, and required throughput.

As a leading UK supplier of Movex, a manufacturer of high-quality conveyor components, we offer an extensive range of plastic and steel conveyor chains for industries including food and beverage, packaging, logistics, automotive, and manufacturing. Our range includes plastic chains, chain belts, and steel chains, with solutions for both straight-running and side-flexing applications.

Why choosing the right conveyor chain matters

A conveyor chain is the driving force behind many conveyor systems. Selecting the wrong chain can lead to excessive wear, product damage, increased maintenance, and unnecessary downtime.

When choosing a conveyor chain, you should consider:

• Product type and weight
• Conveyor speed
• Environmental conditions
• Hygiene requirements
• Straight or curved conveyor layouts
• Load capacity

Matching the chain to the application helps maximise efficiency and lifespan of your components.

Plastic conveyor chains

Plastic chains are among the most popular options in modern conveyor systems. Manufactured from high-performance engineering plastics, they offer excellent wear resistance, low friction, and corrosion resistance. Our partner, Movex, produces a wide range of plastic chains for conveying bottles, cans, cartons, trays, and packaged goods – all available for next-day delivery*. And thanks to our in-house belt assembly service, installation has never been easier.

Plastic chains are particularly suitable for:

• Food processing
• Beverage production
• Packaging lines
• Pharmaceutical applications

Their lightweight construction and low maintenance requirements make them a cost-effective solution for many industries.

Flat top chains

Flat top chains provide a smooth, stable conveying surface, making them ideal for transporting products with flat bases. We stock and deliver numerous flat top chain series, including the popular 820, 821, 880, 881, and 882 ranges.

These chains are commonly used for:

• Bottling lines
• Packaging systems
• Manufacturing processes
• General product handling

Flat top chains are often the preferred choice where product stability is critical.

Grip top chains

Grip top chains feature a high-friction surface that helps prevent products from slipping during conveying, particularly on inclines or declines.

Movex manufactures grip top variations across several chain series, allowing products to be transported securely while maintaining throughput.

Applications include:

• Inclined conveyors
• Packaging lines
• Beverage handling
• Product accumulation systems

Side-flexing chains

For conveyors that need to navigate curves and changes in direction, side-flexing chains provide the necessary flexibility. These chains are designed to move smoothly around bends while maintaining consistent product flow.

We stock a variety of Movex’s side-flexing chain solutions that help you create compact conveyor layouts without compromising performance.

They are commonly found in:

• Beverage plants
• Logistics sites
• Packaging facilities
• Automated production lines

Steel conveyor chains

While plastic chains are widely used, some applications require the additional strength and durability offered by steel chains. Movex manufactures steel flat top and grip top chains for demanding environments where heavier loads or more challenging operating conditions are present.

Steel chains are often selected for:

• Heavy-duty manufacturing
• Automotive production
• Industrial processing
• High-load conveying systems

Chain belts

Chain belts combine chain strength with a larger conveying surface, making them suitable for specialist applications where additional product support is required. We stock and supply chain belt solutions in both flat top and flush grid configurations.

These systems are often used where product stability, drainage, or airflow are important considerations.

How to choose the right conveyor chain

The best conveyor chain will depend on your specific application. Consider the following questions when designing your conveyor system.

• Is the conveyor straight-running or side-flexing?

• Does the product require a smooth or high-grip surface?
• Are hygiene standards a priority?
• Will the chain be exposed to moisture or chemicals?
• What load capacity is required?

Working with our experienced team can help ensure the chain, sprockets, and supporting components are correctly specified for maximum performance and longevity – contact them today for expert advice.

Time for a chain?

With one of the industry’s most comprehensive ranges of conveyor chains, Movex provides solutions for almost every conveying application. From plastic flat top and grip top chains to side-flexing and heavy-duty steel chains, selecting the right chain is essential for achieving reliable, efficient conveyor operation.

At Oadby Conveyors, we supply a wide range of Movex conveyor chains and components, helping customers identify the most suitable solution for their conveyor systems and operational requirements. Contact our team to find the right solution for you.

*Applies only to stocked items.