The reclaimer chain is the primary material-moving component in stacker/reclaimer systems used in cement raw material storage yards. These heavy-duty chains — in forged link, scraper, and drag configurations — continuously convey limestone, clay, coal, and other bulk materials from stockpiles to the processing line. LIMING manufactures high-strength alloy steel reclaimer chains for reliable, long-life operation.
In a cement plant's raw material handling system, the stacker/reclaimer is responsible for homogenizing and reclaiming materials from large stockpiles. The reclaimer's chain mechanism scrapes or scoops material from the pile face and conveys it onto the outgoing belt conveyor. The chain assembly typically consists of multiple parallel strands of interlocking links, with scraper plates or buckets attached at regular intervals. As the chain travels around drive and return sprockets, the scrapers or buckets cut into the stockpile and drag the material toward the discharge point.
Reclaimer chains operate in an extremely abrasive environment — continuously buried in dusty, sharp-edged raw materials like limestone, clay, shale, and gypsum. The fine material infiltrates chain joints and accelerates pin-and-bushing wear, while the bulk material load exerts constant tension on the links. Chain elongation from wear eventually affects sprocket engagement, leading to skipping, uneven tension distribution, and eventual failure. LIMING's reclaimer chains are engineered from carefully selected alloy steels with controlled case hardening to maximize wear life under these demanding conditions.
We produce all three major types of reclaimer chains: forged link chains (the most common type for bridge and portal reclaimers), scraper chains (with integral or bolted scraper flights), and drag chains (for drag chain reclaimers that pull material across the yard floor). Chain pitch, link dimensions, attachment configurations, and material grades are all custom-manufactured to match your reclaimer's specifications.
| Chain Type | Construction | Load Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forged Link Chain | Drop-forged interlocking links with hardened pins | High tensile, good joint articulation | Bridge reclaimers, portal reclaimers, bucket chains |
| Scraper Chain | Links with bolted or welded scraper flights | High tensile, material dragging | Scraper reclaimers, drag-line reclaimers |
| Drag Chain | Oversize links for floor-level dragging | Very high tensile, abrasion contact | Drag chain reclaimers, material retrieval |
LIMING uses alloy steels with controlled heat treatment for optimal wear resistance and toughness:
High-strength alloy steel chain with controlled heat treatment for maximum wear life in abrasive service.
Drop-forged links from 40Cr and 42CrMo alloy steel provide high tensile strength and impact toughness in heavy-duty service.
Induction-hardened link contact surfaces and case-hardened pins deliver superior wear resistance against abrasive dust.
Close-tolerance chain pitch ensures smooth sprocket engagement, reduces vibration, and prevents skipping under load.
Scraper flights, buckets, cleats, and other attachments custom-fabricated and fitted to match your existing chain design.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chain Types | Forged link, scraper, drag chain |
| Link Material | 40Cr, 42CrMo (forged alloy steel) |
| Pin Material | 40Cr, GCr15 (case hardened) |
| Bushing Material | 20CrMnTi (carburized) |
| Scraper Material | Mn13, Q345B steel (depending on service) |
| Chain Pitch | 125 mm – 500+ mm (custom per design) |
| Link Cross-Section | Custom per reclaimer design |
| Surface Hardness (Link) | 50-58 HRC (induction hardened contact areas) |
| Core Hardness (Link) | 28-38 HRC (tough, impact-resistant core) |
| Breaking Load | Custom per chain configuration |
| Inspection | UT, MT, dimensional check, pitch verification, proof load test |
| Lead Time | 30-60 days (depending on length and complexity) |
Every chain link forged and heat-treated for consistent strength and wear resistance.
Alloy steel billets heated and drop-forged into link shapes with controlled grain flow for maximum strength.
Quench and temper links to achieve target core hardness; induction harden contact surfaces for wear resistance.
CNC machining of pin bores and link joint faces to close tolerances for proper articulation and pitch control.
Links assembled with hardened pins and bushings. Scraper flights or buckets attached as specified.
Dimensional verification, pitch measurement, hardness testing, and proof load testing of assembled chain.