Description
Introduction:
A Chip Conveyor is a specialized material handling system designed to collect, transport, and discharge metal chips, swarf, and machining waste generated during manufacturing operations. It is an essential component in machine shops, CNC machining centers, and production lines where continuous removal of chips is required to maintain productivity, cleanliness, and machine efficiency.
At Tech Trek Engineering, we design and manufacture heavy-duty chip conveyors that are reliable, robust, and customized to suit different machining processes and chip characteristics. Our chip conveyors are engineered for continuous operation, long service life, and efficient waste management in demanding industrial environments.
What is a Chip Conveyor?
A chip conveyor is a conveyor system used to remove metal chips produced during machining processes such as milling, turning, drilling, and grinding. The conveyor collects chips from machines and transports them to a disposal or recycling point.
Chip conveyors help prevent machine downtime, reduce manual cleaning, and improve overall shop floor safety and efficiency.
Working Principle:
The working principle of a chip conveyor depends on its design, but generally follows this process:
- Metal chips fall into the conveyor trough from the machine tool.
- A motor-driven chain or belt moves inside the conveyor body.
- Chips are carried or dragged along the conveyor path.
- Coolant drains back into the machine or coolant tank (if applicable).
- Chips are discharged at the end into bins or scrap collection systems.
- The conveyor continues operating continuously with the machine cycle.
This ensures uninterrupted machining operations and clean working conditions.
Key Features of Chip Conveyor:
- Designed for continuous chip removal
- Handles hot, sharp, and abrasive metal chips
- Improves machine uptime and productivity
- Robust and compact construction
- Smooth and reliable operation
- Low maintenance requirement
- Suitable for integration with CNC machines
- Customizable design
Types of Chip Conveyors:
Based on machining process and chip type, chip conveyors can be designed as:
- Drag chain chip conveyor
- Hinge belt chip conveyor
- Scraper chip conveyor
- Screw chip conveyor
- Magnetic chip conveyor
Each type is selected based on chip size, material type, and coolant usage.
Chain, Belt, and Material Options:
We offer various configurations to suit different machining applications:
- Chain Type: Heavy-duty steel chain
- Belt Type: Hinged steel belt or scraper belt
- Structure Material: Mild Steel / Stainless Steel
- Wear Parts: Hardened and wear-resistant components
Material selection ensures durability under continuous and harsh operating conditions.
Applications of Chip Conveyor:
Chip conveyors are widely used in:
- CNC machining centers
- Turning and milling machines
- Automotive component manufacturing
- Aerospace and precision engineering
- Tool rooms and fabrication units
- Metal processing industries
They are ideal for handling steel, cast iron, aluminium, brass, and alloy chips.
Advantages of Chip Conveyor:
- Ensures continuous machining operations
- Reduces manual chip handling
- Improves workplace safety
- Enhances machine life
- Efficient chip and coolant management
- Reduces downtime and cleaning effort
- Cost-effective waste handling solution
Customization Options:
We provide extensive customization options, including:
- Conveyor length, width, and layout
- Chain or belt selection
- Integration with CNC machines
- Coolant filtration and return systems
- Inclined or horizontal discharge
- Enclosed or open design
Chip Conveyor – FAQs:
Q1. What types of chips can a chip conveyor handle?
Chip conveyors can handle metal chips such as steel, cast iron, aluminium, brass, and alloy chips.
Q2. Can chip conveyors handle wet chips with coolant?
Yes, chip conveyors can be designed to handle wet chips with proper coolant drainage systems.
Q3. Why is a chip conveyor important in CNC machines?
It ensures continuous chip removal, prevents machine clogging, and improves productivity.
Q4. What factors affect the price of a chip conveyor?
Price depends on conveyor size, chip type, drive system, and customization.
Q5. Can chip conveyors be customized for different machines?
Yes, chip conveyors are fully customized based on machine tool layout and chip volume.
Q6. Are chip conveyors suitable for continuous operation?
Yes, they are designed for continuous industrial operation.
Q7. Do you provide installation and commissioning support?
Yes, we provide complete technical guidance during installation and commissioning.
