Protect Your Product with Non-Marking Chain

Non-marking chains are specifically designed to protect finished timber products, glass or any other material that is easily damaged or broken. The material used in the non-marking chain is significantly softer than steel, providing a cushioning effect for the conveyed materials. This helps minimise the risk of costly product damage, throwaways and rework. Additionally, non-marking chain offers benefits such as reduced noise levels and varying slip or grip characteristics depending on the material used.

The most common non-marking chain are based on ANSI Standard, British Standard or 81X Roller Chain that is fitted with a cap made from Polyurethane, Rubber or UHMWPE. These caps are usually fitted at the factory, but some types can be fitted by the end user.

ANSI and BS non-marking chains are available in various styles, with the rooftop style being the most common. This design incorporates a soft urethane or rubber cap that covers the entire top of the chain, offering protection for delicate materials like finished timber boards. The cap ensures that when these materials contact the chain, they remain undamaged, preserving the quality achieved during production. Additionally, the soft material enhances noise dampening and provides a high coefficient of friction, improving traction. Both styles of the ANSI and BS non-marking chains will run on standard roller chain sprockets stocked by Supply Services.

Another style features ANSI and BS roller chains fitted with a UHMWPE plate between the inner and outer links. This UHMWPE plate not only protects the product from damage but also helps the chain move easily across the conveyor deck. These chains are compatible with standard roller chain sprockets, which are readily available from Supply Services.

81X and WH78 chain can be fitted with non-marking Polyethylene or Polyurethane caps. These caps serve the same purpose as the ANSI & BS style and are there to protect finished products, reduce noise and provide varying amounts of grip or slip depending on the material chosen.

Polyethylene caps are stocked by Supply Services and are orange in colour. These are best suited for low impact environments. These polyethylene caps have a low coefficient of friction and provide more slip between the product and the cap surface.

Also called ‘Posi Grip’, blue Polyurethane caps are designed for high impact applications where minimal slippage and product damage is required. The material has a durometer hardness of 80A and is non-marking. These caps have a high coefficient of friction which gives more traction with the product being carried. These caps will fit on 81X and WH78 chain.

To maximise the performance of 81X and WH78 non-marking chains, we recommend using them with our stocked Chanex® UHMWPE profiles. These profiles are specifically designed to extend chain life, reduce operating noise, and ensure smooth movement of the chain.

Additionally, we offer 81X and WH78 Polymer Sprockets, which are six times lighter than steel sprockets and are made from highly durable Northane 75D Polyurethane. These sprockets are split for easy installation, and their bearing inserts can be replaced when needed. These sprockets significantly reduce the running noise when running steel chains on steel sprockets.

Whether you’re handling finished timber, glass, or other delicate materials, Supply Services has the non-marking chain solutions to protect your products and streamline your production line. We have nationwide coverage and expert support across our New Zealand branches.

Get in touch with our team today to discuss the right non-marking chain, sprockets, and wear component solutions for your business. We’ll help you keep your operations running smoothly.