Safety Guidelines and Information

Safety First: Lockout Procedures

• What is it? Before any maintenance, assembly, or repair, ensure that the conveyor system is powered off and properly locked out. This prevents accidental startups, which could cause severe injury or death.
• How to do it: Follow OSHA regulations for proper lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures. All power sources, including electrical and mechanical, should be disconnected and locked out before working on the system.

Safety Signal Words and Labels

Understanding Safety Signals

Safety signals are used throughout the manual and on the equipment itself to indicate different levels of hazard. Knowing what each signal means will help prevent accidents.

• DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation that will result in serious injury or death if not avoided.
• WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation that could result in serious injury or death.
• CAUTION: Indicates a situation that could result in minor or moderate injury.
• NOTICE: Indicates a situation that could result in damage to the equipment but not personal injury.

Example Safety Labels (U.S. and International Versions)

• Crush Hazard: Keep hands clear of moving components. Equipment starts automatically. Lockout before servicing.
• Fall Hazard: Do not stand on the conveyor.
• Burn Hazard: If the conveyor chain catches fire, it burns with a very hot, faint flame. Use the proper extinguishing materials like water or CO₂.

Pro Tip: Replace worn or damaged labels immediately. Contact customer support to order replacement labels (Part number: DS8008 for U.S. versions).

Hazards to Watch For

Span Tech conveyors, like all mechanical systems, present specific hazards. Below are some examples of potential dangers and how to mitigate them:

Pinch Points and Shear Points

• Where it happens: Occurs between moving parts, such as the conveyor chain and the frame.
• Preventive Action: Always keep hands, clothing, and tools away from moving parts. Use guards and safety barriers to prevent accidental contact.

Falling Objects

• Where it happens: Heavy or unstable items can fall from overhead parts of the conveyor system.
• Preventive Action: Install proper shelving, guardrails, or barriers where necessary and regularly check the overhead area for potential falling hazards.

Exposed Drive Components

• Where it happens: These are common at transfer points or drive units.
• Preventive Action: Use appropriate guarding and safety shields to cover all exposed components. Regularly inspect safety guards to ensure they’re secure.

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency, such as a fire or equipment malfunction, follow these steps to ensure safety:

Fire Safety

• Acetal Conveyor Chains: In the event of a fire, the conveyor chain burns with a very hot, nearly invisible blue flame.
• Extinguishing Fire: Use water, foam, CO₂, or dry chemical extinguishers. Do not use alternative extinguishing materials as they may not put out the fire effectively.
• After the Fire: Once the fire is out, do not restart the conveyor system until it has been thoroughly inspected and repaired if necessary.

Emergency Stop Procedures

• Know Your Stops: All personnel working near the conveyor should know the location of emergency stop buttons. These buttons should cut all power to the conveyor immediately.
• Manual Restarts: The system should be restarted manually from the same location where the stop was initiated, ensuring that it’s safe to do so.

Key Safety Practices for Maintenance

• Authorized Personnel Only: Ensure that only trained and authorized personnel conduct repairs and maintenance on control stations or other sensitive areas.
• Loose Clothing: Remove any loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair that could become entangled in moving parts.
• Maintenance Guards: Never remove safety guards unless absolutely necessary for repairs, and replace them immediately after maintenance.
• Pre-Operation Checklist: Before starting or restarting a conveyor, always run through a pre-operation checklist to ensure safety devices, guards, and personnel are ready.

Safety Evaluation Checklist

Quick Tip: Use this checklist before operating or restarting the conveyor system to ensure maximum safety.

1. Are safety guards in place?
2. Are safety labels in good condition?
3. Are emergency stops easily accessible?
4. Is the conveyor chain in good condition, with no broken links?
5. Are all personnel aware of the startup?

 

Common Conveyor Problems and Fixes

This section provides quick troubleshooting tips for the most common issues that arise with conveyor systems. Each problem is broken down into symptoms, causes, and step-by-step solutions so you can resolve issues quickly and keep your system running smoothly.

Problem #1: Chain or Wearstrip Contamination

Symptoms:

• High friction or resistance while the conveyor is running.
• Unusual noise or overheating.
• Chain derailment or jamming.

Common Causes:

• Dust, dirt, or debris lodged in the chain or wearstrip.
• Contamination from nearby construction, product spills, or environmental debris.

Solution:

1. Stop the Conveyor: Ensure the system is locked out and powered down.
2. Inspect the Chain and Wearstrips: Look for visible signs of contamination like dust, metal chips, or product residue.
3. Clean the Conveyor:
• Wipe down the chain and wearstrips with a cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol or a mild detergent.
• For severe contamination, remove the chain and clean thoroughly.
• Clean both the top and bottom sides of the wearstrips to remove abrasive particles.
4. Prevent Future Contamination:
• Cover the conveyor if operating near construction or heavy dust-producing activities.
• Regularly clean and inspect the conveyor to avoid contamination buildup.

Problem #2: Foreign Object Interference

Symptoms:

• Conveyor chain derails or jams unexpectedly.
• Unusual scraping or grinding sounds during operation.
• Motor strain or sudden shutdowns.

Common Causes:

• Tools, bolts, or debris stuck between conveyor components.
• Foreign objects interfering with the chain’s movement, especially near loading and unloading points.

Solution:

1. Stop the Conveyor: Use the emergency stop button and ensure the system is locked out.
2. Inspect for Interference:
• Check for any foreign objects on or near the chain.
• Pay particular attention to guide rails, brackets, and transfer points.
3. Remove Foreign Objects: Clear away any debris, loose parts, or tools that might be obstructing the chain.
4. Adjust Components: Make sure transfer plates, fingers, and other components are correctly positioned and not interfering with the chain.
5. Preventive Action: Keep the conveyor area clean, remove foreign objects immediately after maintenance, and adjust nearby machinery to avoid contact with the chain.

Problem #3: Misaligned Sprockets

Symptoms:

• Uneven chain wear.
• Chain “jumping” off the sprockets.
• Chain misalignment or pulling to one side.

Common Causes:

• Sprockets not properly aligned across the shaft.
• Worn or damaged sprockets that are not engaging properly with the chain links.

Solution:

1. Stop and Lock Out the Conveyor: Before adjusting sprockets, ensure the system is powered off.
2. Inspect Sprockets for Misalignment:
• Use an alignment tool to check if sprocket teeth are engaging the chain evenly across the width.
3. Realign the Sprockets:
• Loosen the sprocket mounting bolts and adjust the sprockets until they are aligned.
• Ensure that sprocket teeth are engaging properly with the chain links, especially right behind a connecting rod.
4. Tighten and Test:
• Once realigned, tighten the bolts and manually rotate the chain to test engagement.
5. Preventive Action: Regularly check sprocket alignment during routine maintenance to avoid chain damage or failure.

Problem #4: Improper Chain Slack

Symptoms:

• Chain is too tight or too loose.
• Excessive motor strain, especially during start-up.
• Chain skips or jumps teeth on the sprockets.

Common Causes:

• Incorrect chain tension leading to too much or too little slack.
• Normal wear and elongation of chain links over time.

Solution:

1. Measure the Slack:
• After stopping the conveyor, try to compress the chain at three consecutive rows of links.
• If you cannot compress three rows, the chain is too tight. If you can compress more than three rows, the chain is too loose.
2. Adjust Slack:
• If the chain is too tight, add additional rows of links.
• If the chain is too loose, remove some chain links to reduce slack.
3. Recheck and Test:
• After adjusting, recheck the slack by manually rotating the chain. Ensure the chain engages properly with the sprockets.
4. Prevent Future Issues: Regularly check and adjust chain slack during maintenance to avoid excessive wear on the motor and sprockets.

Problem #5: Worn or Damaged Wearstrips

Symptoms:

• Increased friction, causing the motor to work harder.
• Chain derailment or binding.
• Unusual scraping noises during operation.

Common Causes:

• Wearstrips are worn, improperly installed, or overlapping.
• Overheating or expansion causing the wearstrip to warp.

Solution:

1. Stop and Inspect the Conveyor:
• Check the wearstrips for signs of damage, such as cracks, wear, or warping.
• Look for overlapping wearstrips, which can cause chain derailment.
2. Replace Worn Wearstrips:
• If wearstrips are damaged, remove and replace them with new ones.
• Ensure they are installed properly, with a consistent gap size based on the operating temperature.
3. Check for Overlap:
• Ensure wearstrips are properly cut and aligned. The ends should meet without overlap to prevent chain interference.
4. Lubricate the Wearstrips:
• After replacement, ensure the wearstrips are properly lubricated to reduce friction and extend their life.
5. Monitor for Overheating:
• If wearstrips overheat, check for excess load on the conveyor and reduce the operational speed if necessary.

Other Common Conveyor Issues

Chain Elongation

• Symptom: Chain appears stretched, with excessive slack.
• Solution: Measure the chain’s elongation percentage. Replace the chain if the elongation exceeds 4% for MonoSpan and MultiSpan, or 2% for MaxiSpan.

Chemical Contamination

• Symptom: Conveyor parts become brittle, crack, or show signs of chemical degradation.
• Solution: Identify and eliminate exposure to harmful chemicals. Refer to the Chemical Compatibility Chart for more information.

Broken Chain Links/Rods

• Symptom: Chain fails during operation, causing stoppage.
• Solution: Replace broken chain links and rods immediately. Inspect surrounding links for fatigue and replace as needed.

Need Help?

If you’re unable to resolve the issue or require replacement parts, contact our customer support team for assistance. We’re here to help you keep your system running smoothly!

 

Troubleshooting Diagnostic Chart

The Troubleshooting Diagnostic Chart is designed to help you quickly diagnose common conveyor system problems. Below, you’ll find a list of common symptoms, their potential causes, and recommended corrective actions.

Diagnostic Chart Overview

How to Use This Chart:

1. Find the Symptom: Identify the problem you’re experiencing.
2. Check the Probable Causes: Review the possible reasons the issue is happening.
3. Follow the Corrective Actions: Use the suggested steps to resolve the issue and prevent it from recurring.

Quick Links:

• Chain Issues
• Sprocket Problems
• Motor and Electrical Issues
• Wearstrip and Contamination Issues
• Alignment Problems

Troubleshooting Chart: Problems and Solutions

Symptom	Probable Causes	Corrective Actions
Chain jumping sprockets	Misaligned sprockets, improper sprocket/chain engagement, too much slack in the chain	Realign sprockets, adjust chain slack, check sprocket teeth for wear
Excessive chain slack	Elongated chain, improper installation of chain	Remove extra links from the chain or replace worn chain
High friction or overheating	Contaminated chain/wearstrips, worn or damaged wearstrips	Clean chain and wearstrips, replace worn wearstrips, check lubrication levels
Chain derailment	Broken or bent chain links, improperly installed wearstrips, foreign object interference	Replace broken links, realign wearstrips, remove foreign objects
Motor strain or high current draw	Excessive chain tension, improper sprocket engagement, blocked components	Adjust chain slack, inspect sprockets, clear any blockages or foreign objects
Loud scraping or grinding noises	Worn wearstrips, foreign object interference, chain misalignment	Replace wearstrips, remove obstructions, realign the chain
Chain doesn’t move smoothly	Chain slack issues, chain elongation, worn sprockets	Adjust chain slack, replace elongated chains, inspect and replace sprockets if necessary
Sprocket teeth worn down	Misaligned chain/sprockets, over-tensioned chain, lack of lubrication	Re-align sprockets, adjust chain tension, ensure proper lubrication
Conveyor stopping intermittently	Overloaded system, motor overheating, excessive chain slack	Reduce load, check motor for overheating, adjust chain slack

Detailed Problem Categories

Let’s break down some of the most frequent issues in more detail, providing a deeper dive into symptoms and solutions.

1. Chain Issues

Problem: Chain Jumping Sprockets

Symptoms: The chain frequently comes off or jumps sprocket teeth.
Possible Causes:

• Sprockets are misaligned or not engaging with the chain correctly.
• Excessive slack in the chain.

Fixes:

• Realign Sprockets: Use an alignment tool to ensure sprockets are aligned with the chain.
• Adjust Chain Slack: Add or remove links to get the proper amount of slack.

Problem: Chain Derailment

Symptoms: Chain falls off the conveyor track.
Possible Causes:

• Wearstrips are damaged or misaligned.
• Foreign objects are interfering with the chain’s path.

Fixes:

• Replace Wearstrips: Ensure they are properly seated and free from overlaps.
• Remove Debris: Clear any objects that may have fallen into the chain’s path.

2. Sprocket Problems

Problem: Sprocket Teeth Worn Down

Symptoms: Sprocket teeth are visibly worn, causing the chain to slip or jump.
Possible Causes:

• Chain is too tight, causing excessive wear on the sprockets.
• Chain and sprockets are misaligned, causing uneven wear.

Fixes:

• Adjust Chain Tension: Ensure proper slack to reduce strain on the sprockets.
• Check Sprocket Alignment: Realign sprockets to ensure smooth engagement with the chain.

Problem: Improper Sprocket/Chain Engagement

Symptoms: Chain doesn’t fully engage with the sprockets, causing slippage.
Possible Causes:

• Sprockets are misaligned or the teeth are worn down.

Fixes:

• Realign or Replace Sprockets: If sprockets are worn, replace them. Ensure proper alignment to prevent future issues.

3. Motor and Electrical Issues

Problem: High Motor Current Draw

Symptoms: The motor is pulling more current than normal, causing strain or overheating.
Possible Causes:

• Excessive chain tension or friction due to contaminated wearstrips.
• Blocked components such as foreign objects stuck in the conveyor path.

Fixes:

• Reduce Chain Tension: Adjust chain slack to reduce strain on the motor.
• Clear Blockages: Inspect the entire system for foreign objects or blockages that may be causing resistance.

Problem: Conveyor Stops Intermittently

Symptoms: Conveyor runs but frequently stops unexpectedly.
Possible Causes:

• Overloaded system or motor overheating.
• Chain slack causing excessive strain on the motor.

Fixes:

• Reduce Load: Ensure the load on the conveyor is within specified limits.
• Check Motor Temperature: If the motor is overheating, allow it to cool and investigate the cause (overload, lack of lubrication, etc.).

4. Wearstrip and Contamination Issues

Problem: High Friction or Overheating

Symptoms: Conveyor is hot to the touch or producing unusual noise due to friction.
Possible Causes:

• Contaminated chain or wearstrips with debris like dirt, dust, or product residue.
• Worn or damaged wearstrips.

Fixes:

• Clean the Conveyor: Use rubbing alcohol or water to clean the chain and wearstrips.
• Replace Wearstrips: If they are worn or warped, replace them immediately.

Problem: Wearstrips Damaged or Misaligned

Symptoms: Chain binds, derails, or grinds against the side of the conveyor.
Possible Causes:

• Wearstrips are not seated properly or have been damaged due to wear.

Fixes:

• Realign Wearstrips: Check that wearstrips are seated correctly and meet without overlapping.
• Replace Damaged Strips: Install new wearstrips if the old ones are worn down or warped.

5. Alignment Problems

Problem: Misaligned Conveyor Bed Sections

Symptoms: Conveyor sections are misaligned, causing the chain to bind or derail.
Possible Causes:

• Side frames or bed sections are not aligned correctly.

Fixes:

• Realign Conveyor Bed Sections: Ensure that all sections of the conveyor bed are properly aligned. Use an alignment tool if necessary.
• Inspect Side Frames: Make sure side frames are straight and free from warping.

Problem: Bound or Locked Idler Shaft

Symptoms: Idler shaft is not rotating freely, causing increased torque and motor strain.
Possible Causes:

• Outer sprockets are rubbing against the side plates or there’s a bearing failure.

Fixes:

• Loosen Sprockets: Place a shim between the side plates and the sprockets to reduce friction.
• Check Bearings: Inspect and replace any damaged bearings to ensure the idler shaft rotates freely.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

Preventing Chain Elongation:

• Chains naturally elongate over time due to wear. Measure the chain’s elongation percentage regularly and replace it if elongation exceeds 4% for MonoSpan and MultiSpan chains or 2% for MaxiSpan chains.

Chemical Contamination:

• Certain chemicals can cause conveyor components, like plastic parts, to become brittle and fail. Always check the Chemical Compatibility Chart and avoid exposing the system to harsh chemicals.

 

Need Expert Help?

Still having trouble diagnosing an issue? Contact our support team for further assistance or to schedule a service visit. We can also help you order replacement parts to get your system up and running as soon as possible.

 

Preventive Maintenance Guide

Why Preventive Maintenance is Critical
Preventive maintenance not only ensures the longevity of your conveyor system but also helps in avoiding costly downtime due to unexpected breakdowns. By following a regular maintenance schedule, you can keep your conveyor running smoothly and reduce the risk of accidents or equipment failure.

Maintenance Intervals
Routine checks should be performed according to the following schedule:

• Monthly Maintenance: For most preventive tasks like inspecting chain slack and wearstrips.
• Bi-weekly (Every 15 Days): For lubrication checks and wearstrip lubrication.
• Before Operation: Always run a checklist before starting the conveyor.

Environmental Contamination Inspection

Frequency: Monthly
Objective: Ensure the conveyor is free from environmental debris that could cause damage.

Common Contaminants:

• Abrasive Materials: Dust, metal chips, glass particles, etc.
• Construction Debris: Concrete dust, wood chips, ceramic dust from nearby work areas.
• Product Residue: Sugar, flour, or other food particles.

Steps:

1. Inspect the top and bottom of wearstrips for debris.
2. Wipe down all surfaces with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or water.
3. If contamination is severe, remove the conveyor chain for deeper cleaning.
4. Cover the conveyor during nearby construction to prevent debris from settling on it.

Note: Operating a conveyor with environmental contamination can lead to increased friction, overheating, and chain derailment.

Chain and Wearstrip Inspection

Frequency: Monthly
Objective: Check for broken or worn chain links and proper wearstrip installation.

What to Look For:

• Chain Links: Broken links, worn foot tabs, and loose or missing lock tabs.
• Wearstrips: Proper fit, no overlaps, cut at the right angle to match the chain flow direction.

Steps:

1. Examine the chain for visible cracks or broken links. Replace any damaged links.
2. Inspect the wearstrip for signs of overheating or excessive wear. Make sure the wearstrip is properly seated on the conveyor frame.
3. Check the wearstrip gap (temperature-dependent) to ensure there’s no overlap that could cause chain derailment.
4. Verify that all chain lock tabs are snapped securely into place.

Common Issues:

• Problem: Chain derailment due to worn wearstrips.
• Solution: Replace damaged wearstrips and ensure proper installation.
• Problem: Broken lock tabs lead to chain instability.
• Solution: Replace or re-secure lock tabs immediately.

Drive/Idler Wearstrip Inspection

Frequency: Monthly
Objective: Ensure the wearstrips on drive and idler units (horseshoes) are in good condition.

What to Inspect:

• Horseshoes: These curved wearstrips guide the chain around the drive and idler units.
• Side Plates: Check for damage or excessive wear.

Steps:

1. Verify that the wearstrips are securely fitted around the drive and idler side plates.
2. Ensure that the wearstrips are pinned correctly and are not disengaged from the side plates.
3. Inspect for loose or missing fasteners in the drive and idler units.
4. Replace any worn or damaged wearstrips immediately.

Foreign Object Interference Inspection

Frequency: Monthly
Objective: Ensure there are no foreign objects obstructing the chain or conveyor system.

Common Foreign Objects:

• Loose tools, bolts, debris from adjacent machinery, or product spillover.
• Objects interfering with chain movement at loading or unloading points.

Steps:

1. Inspect the entire length of the conveyor for foreign objects that may be obstructing chain movement.
2. Ensure that transfer plates, fingers, and other components are clear of the conveyor chain.
3. Adjust guide rails, brackets, and raised side walls if they are making contact with the chain.
4. Remove any tools, bolts, or debris from the conveyor area.

Tip: Keeping the conveyor area clean and free of debris helps prevent sudden equipment failure and increases conveyor lifespan.

Chain Slack and Sprocket Engagement Inspection

Frequency: Monthly
Objective: Adjust chain slack and ensure proper engagement with sprockets.

Why It’s Important:

• Too Much Slack: Can cause the chain to jump the sprocket teeth, resulting in motor strain and increased wear.
• Too Little Slack: Creates excessive tension, causing the chain to wear out prematurely.

Steps:

1. Measure the amount of slack by compressing three rows of links with your thumb and forefinger. If you can’t compress three rows, the chain is too tight; if you can compress more than three rows, it’s too loose.
2. Adjust slack by removing or adding rows of links until the slack is within acceptable limits.
3. Inspect sprockets to ensure they are properly engaging with the chain links. The sprocket teeth should align with the chain, particularly just behind a connecting rod.
4. Monitor for excessive chain slack after the drive sprockets to prevent jumping.

Lubrication and Lubricator Inspection

Frequency: Every 15 Days
Objective: Ensure the wearstrips are properly lubricated to reduce friction and prevent wear.

Systems with Lubricators:

• Steps:
1. Check the fill level of the lubricator reservoir.
2. Verify that the wearstrip lubricators are properly adjusted to apply sufficient lubrication to the wearstrips.

Systems without Lubricators:

• Manual Lubrication:
1. Use SpanLube silicone oil and apply it directly to the area where the conveyor chain and wearstrip meet on the bottom side of the conveyor.
2. Avoid using too much lubricant as it can attract contaminants.

Warning: Avoid using lubricants that could contaminate the product being conveyed. Silicone oil is difficult to remove once applied, so use it cautiously if contamination is a concern.

Motor Current Measurement

Frequency: Monthly
Objective: Measure motor amperage to ensure it’s within acceptable levels and detect any system strain.

What to Check:

• Motor amperage readings should be compared against the values provided on the motor’s specification plate.

Steps:

1. Use a clamp-on multimeter to measure the running amperage for each of the motor’s three power leads (excluding the ground lead).
2. Compare the readings to the specified values on the motor plate.
3. If the measured values exceed the specified range, investigate for possible issues such as excessive chain slack, poor sprocket engagement, or contamination.

Tip: Keep a log of all motor current measurements. Sudden increases in amperage could indicate a mechanical issue requiring immediate attention.

Preventive Maintenance Checklist (Downloadable)

Make this checklist available for users to download or print, so they can follow the preventive maintenance routine at their facility:

• Monthly: Chain and wearstrip inspection, foreign object inspection, drive/idler inspection.
• Every 15 Days: Lubrication check.
• Ongoing: Monitor motor current and chain slack.

Preventive Maintenance Checklist

Preventive maintenance is essential to keeping your conveyor system running efficiently. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive checklist that can be followed on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis to maintain your conveyor system in peak condition.

Daily Maintenance Checklist

For daily operations, a quick visual inspection can help prevent small problems from escalating into larger issues.

• Inspect Conveyor Area: Make sure there are no foreign objects (tools, debris, etc.) in the path of the conveyor.
• Check Emergency Stop Buttons: Ensure all emergency stops are functioning and accessible.
• Visual Inspection of Chain: Look for obvious damage like broken links or excessive slack.
• Verify Lubrication (if applicable): Ensure that automatic lubricators are functioning and filled with lubricant.
• Conveyor Load: Confirm the system is operating within its specified load limits.

Weekly Maintenance Checklist

A more detailed weekly inspection will help identify wear and tear on components and ensure proper lubrication.

• Inspect Chain Tension: Compress three rows of chain links to check for proper tension. Adjust slack as necessary by adding or removing links.
• Lubrication Check: Manually lubricate wearstrips (if no automatic system is present) using SpanLube silicone oil or another approved lubricant.
• Wearstrip Condition: Check for signs of wear, overheating, or misalignment in the wearstrips.
• Clean Wearstrips: Wipe down wearstrips to remove debris or residue buildup.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

This more thorough monthly check should involve system shutdown and inspection of key components.

1. Chain and Wearstrip Inspection

• Inspect Chain for Damage: Look for broken links, bent rods, or loose lock tabs. Replace any damaged components immediately.
• Check for Chain Elongation: Measure chain elongation and replace the chain if the elongation exceeds 4% (MonoSpan and MultiSpan) or 2% (MaxiSpan).
• Wearstrip Installation: Ensure wearstrips are correctly seated, with no overlaps or gaps wider than 1/4″. Replace any worn or damaged strips.

2. Motor and Drive System Check

• Measure Motor Current: Use a clamp-on meter to check the motor’s current draw and compare it to the motor’s specification plate.
• Check Gearmotor Oil Levels: For systems with gearmotors, ensure oil levels are sufficient and refill as necessary.
• Inspect Drive Sprockets: Check for worn or damaged sprockets. Ensure sprockets are aligned and engaging correctly with the chain.

3. Foreign Object and Safety Inspection

• Clear Any Debris: Inspect the entire conveyor for loose bolts, tools, or foreign objects that could interfere with the chain.
• Safety Guard Check: Ensure that all safety guards and labels are in place and in good condition.

Bi-Annual Maintenance Checklist

Twice a year, it’s important to perform a deep inspection of the system.

• Full System Inspection: Shut down the conveyor for a complete inspection of all components, including chain tension, wearstrips, sprockets, gearmotors, and the electrical system.
• Replace High-Wear Parts: Check high-friction areas and replace components such as wearstrips and chain links that show signs of wear.
• Chain Realignment: Ensure chain and sprockets are properly aligned and free from obstructions or uneven wear.

 

Contact and Support Section

If you encounter an issue that requires professional assistance or if you need replacement parts, our support team is here to help. Below is a detailed guide to accessing support, ordering parts, and frequently asked questions.

Contact Information

Our dedicated team of technicians is available to assist with any troubleshooting, assembly, or maintenance questions.

Customer Support Team

• Phone: 1-270-651-9166 (Extensions: 279, 227, 296)
• Email: custservgrp@spantechllc.com
• Web Form: Visit Here
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 4 PM (CST)

Ordering Replacement Parts

Need a replacement part for your conveyor system? We make it easy to order what you need to keep your system running smoothly.

How to Order Parts:

1. Identify the Part: Use the conveyor’s Bill of Materials, Span Tech’s Owner’s Manual or The Service & Parts Manual to locate the part number. Common replacement parts include wearstrips, chain links, sprockets, and safety labels.
2. Submit a Request: Contact our parts department with the part number and a description of the issue to ensure the correct part is ordered.
• Phone: 270.651.9166 (Extensions: 279, 227, 296)
• Email: parts@spantechllc.com
• Web Form: Visit Here
3. Shipping and Delivery: Most parts are available for immediate shipping. Expect delivery within 3–5 business days.

FAQ Section

1. How do I adjust chain slack?

• Chain slack can be adjusted by adding or removing chain links. Refer to the Chain Slack Adjustment section for step-by-step instructions.

2. What do I do if the chain is jumping sprockets?

• This issue may be caused by misaligned sprockets or excessive chain slack. Check the alignment of the sprockets and adjust the chain slack as needed.

3. How do I replace damaged wearstrips?

• Wearstrip replacement is a straightforward process. Remove the damaged strips, cut the new wearstrips to size, and attach them using plastic rivets. Detailed instructions can be found in the Wearstrip Installation section.

4. How do I know when to replace the conveyor chain?

• Conveyor chains should be replaced when the elongation exceeds 4% for MonoSpan and MultiSpan chains or 2% for MaxiSpan chains. Use the Chain Elongation Measurement section to check elongation.

5. Can I order safety labels and guards separately?

• Yes. Safety labels (Part Numbers DS8008 and DS8009) and guards can be ordered through our parts department.

D. Schedule a Service Visit

If you’re unable to resolve an issue through troubleshooting, schedule a service visit with one of our certified technicians.

• On-Site Assistance: Our team will visit your facility to diagnose and repair any conveyor issues.
• Preventive Maintenance Program: Enroll in our scheduled maintenance program for regular inspections and maintenance of your conveyor system.

To schedule a service visit:

• Call: 270.651.9166 
• Email: custservgrp@spantechllc.com

Need Immediate Help?

For urgent issues or technical assistance outside of regular hours, please call our 24/7 Emergency Support Line at 270.651.9166.