Rafer: Your Questions, Our Answers

Quality and Customized Equipment

Does RAFER really manufacture its products in France?

100% of our production is designed and carried out in our facilities in Saint Chamond. We have a workshop with 35 operators and a high-performance production setup covering an area of over 6000 m².

If my production capacity increases, will my existing RAFER equipment remain reliable?

Feel free to provide us with the new operating parameters. We will calculate the new stresses applied to the equipment as quickly as possible.

How do we start designing a material handling chain?

The first step is to determine the exact function required for the chain (pulling, pushing, lifting, etc.) and then assess its future constraints (forces, speed, presence of dust, humidity, corrosion, abrasion, maintenance, lubrication, etc.).

What tension should be applied to my chain?

Also known as "slack adjustment," as a chain should not be overly tight. This adjustment absorbs joint play and compensates for elongation due to wear. Thus, there's no typical tension value to apply; it's more important to ensure the presence of slack, as the lack of slack can cause premature chain wear.

What conveying speed is appropriate for my chain?

Recommended values vary depending on equipment design:
- Pallet or scraper conveyors: 0.1 to 0.5 m/s
- Bucket elevators: 0.2 to 1 m/s
- Swinging bucket elevators: 0.1 to 0.3 m/s
- Overhead conveyors: max 0.35 m/s.
Conversely, a low value may cause jerky movement.

How can I ensure proper lubrication for my chain?

It's better to consider the opposite question: "Is my chain improperly lubricated?" If so, unusual noise is the first sign of the issue. Oxidation of the chain and localized stiffening are also easily observable parameters.

Can you provide me with a chain that operates without lubrication?

Yes, if the forces applied to the chain allow it. It's crucial to calculate the forces before transitioning to a lubrication-free mode. If the pressures allow it, RAFER will propose a suitable solution in terms of metallurgy and associated treatment.