Standard Drag Chain Conveyor

Overview

Industrial Kinetics’ Drag Chain Conveyors are engineered for the controlled transport of unitized loads and palletized products in demanding industrial environments. Using flat link chain strands as the conveying surface, drag chain conveyors provide a positive, durable method for moving loads that are unsuitable for roller conveyors. These systems are commonly applied in pallet handling, accumulation, and heavy-duty material flow applications where reliability and structural strength are required.

Specifications

Controls

Load Capacities

Options

Non-Standard Features

Why Choose Us

Industrial Kinetics Drag Chain Conveyors are designed using proven CEMA application principles and decades of heavy-duty conveyor experience. Flat link chain construction minimizes moving components while providing a robust conveying surface capable of handling harsh conditions. Multiple chain types, frame styles, and drive configurations allow each system to be engineered precisely for the application, ensuring long service life and dependable operation.

success stories

Manual Palletizing and Pallet Handling Conveyor System in Distribution Center

March 3, 2026
High speed manual palletizing system featuring a low profile dual deck Smart transfer car, automatic pallet dispenser, and zero pressure accumulation to reduce labor, improve ergonomics, lower maintenance costs, and streamline pallet handling operations.
Factory floor with a conveyor belt system and machinery, including a green cabinet, under bright lights.

Material Delivery and Dunnage Removal Conveyor system for Parallel Assembly Line, Overhead Material Delivery System

August 29, 2025
A vehicle manufacturer was looking for a new method to deliver materials for the assembly of vehicles to four parallel assembly lines. IK developed, engineered, and implemented an overhead pallet conveyor system that provided great benefits to the vehicle manufacturer.

System Integration

Drag Chain Conveyors integrate seamlessly with other pallet handling equipment including Chain Driven Live Roller (CDLR) conveyors, chain transfers, turntables, pallet stops, scales, and automated interfaces. They are commonly used as part of larger material handling systems that include palletizers, depalletizers, ASRS interfaces, AGVs, and robotic cells, providing a stable and predictable conveying platform.

What industries typically use these systems:

01

Manufacturing: Transporting pallets through assembly, machining, or finishing operations.

02

Warehousing & Distribution: Pallet handling in accumulation, staging, and transfer areas.

03

Automotive & Heavy Industry: Conveying heavy racks, skids, and unitized loads.

04

Food & Beverage (Secondary Areas): Pallet movement outside primary washdown zones.

05

Industrial Packaging: Feeding palletizers, stretch wrappers, and outbound systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should a drag chain conveyor be used instead of rollers?

    Drag chain conveyors are ideal for loads that cannot roll, have irregular bottoms, or require full support across the conveying surface.

  • How many chain strands are required for pallet handling?

    Two or three strands are typical for standard pallets. Additional strands may be required based on pallet size, weight, and support pattern.

  • What is the difference between UHMW track and steel wear bars?

    UHMW tracks provide sliding friction and quieter operation, while steel wear bars offer rolling friction and are preferred for higher loads.

  • Are drag chain conveyors suitable for harsh environments?

    Yes. With minimal moving parts and optional corrosion-resistant materials, drag chain conveyors perform well in dirty or demanding conditions.

  • Can drag chain conveyors be customized?

    Yes. Industrial Kinetics routinely customizes chain type, strand quantity, frame construction, and finishes to match the application.

Request a Quote. Start Your Project Today

2535 Curtiss St.
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Phone: (630) 655-0300
Fax: (630) 655-1720

Standard Drag Chain Live Roller (Pallet&Unitized Loads) Contact Form