When it comes to managing chips and coolant in CNC machining operations, ASIATOOLS offers a comprehensive range of chip conveyor solutions designed to integrate seamlessly with their CNC milling machines and machining centers. These chip conveyor systems are engineered to handle various chip types, production volumes, and material compositions, providing manufacturers with reliable material handling capabilities that enhance workplace safety, reduce manual labor, and maintain optimal machining conditions. The chip conveyor options available through ASIATOOLS cover the full spectrum from standard magnetic chip conveyors to sophisticated combination systems, each tailored to meet specific production requirements and budget considerations.
ASIATOOLS has established itself as a trusted supply chain partner for the mold and die industry since 2012, and their chip conveyor offerings reflect this expertise accumulated over more than a decade of serving precision machining professionals worldwide. The company’s commitment to quality is backed by multiple certifications including ISO9001 quality management system, EU CE product safety certification, and Korea KCS product safety certification, ensuring that every chip conveyor solution meets rigorous international standards.
Types of Chip Conveyors Available Through ASIATOOLS
Understanding the different chip conveyor technologies is essential for selecting the right solution for your specific machining application. ASIATOOLS provides access to multiple conveyor types, each with distinct advantages depending on the materials being machined and production requirements.
1. Magnetic Chip Conveyors
Magnetic chip conveyors utilize powerful permanent magnets or electromagnetic systems to extract ferromagnetic chips from coolant streams. These systems are particularly effective for machining operations involving steel, iron, and other magnetic materials.
- Magnet Type: Permanent magnets offer consistent separation without power consumption, while electromagnetic systems provide adjustable magnetic strength for different chip densities
- Capacity Range: Typical throughput ranges from 50 kg/h to 500 kg/h depending on model specifications
- Coolant Flow Rate: Designed to handle flow rates between 50 L/min and 300 L/min
- Applications: Ideal for turning, drilling, and milling operations in automotive, aerospace, and industrial machinery sectors
2. Screw Chip Conveyors
Screw chip conveyors employ a rotating auger mechanism to transport chips and coolant mixtures through enclosed channels. These systems excel at handling mixed chip and coolant compositions while providing reliable dewatering capabilities.
- Auger Diameter: Standard sizes range from 100mm to 400mm diameter
- Length Options: Configurable lengths from 1,000mm to 6,000mm to suit various machine layouts
- Discharge Angle: Adjustable angles from 30° to 60° for optimal chip flow
- Material Construction: High-grade steel construction with wear-resistant coatings for extended service life
3. Hinge Belt Chip Conveyors
Hinge belt conveyors feature interlocking metal strips that form a flexible belt capable of navigating tight corners while transporting heavy, bulky chips. These systems are particularly suitable for applications generating long, stringy chips or large chip volumes.
- Belt Width: Available in widths from 190mm to 600mm
- Pitch Options: 31.75mm, 38.1mm, and 50.8mm pitch configurations
- Tensile Strength: Heavy-duty models capable of withstanding loads up to 2,000 kg/m
- Speed Range: Variable speed control from 0.5 m/min to 3.0 m/min
4. Scraper Chain Chip Conveyors
Scraper chain conveyors utilize a chain mechanism with attached scrapers to drag chips along the conveyor bottom. These robust systems handle the most demanding applications including heavy cast iron chips, abrasive materials, and high-volume production environments.
- Chain Pitch: Standard 31.75mm and 50.8mm chain options
- Flight Width: Configurable from 200mm to 800mm
- Operating Temperature: Rated for continuous operation from -20°C to 80°C
- Lubrication System: Automatic chain lubrication for reduced maintenance requirements
5. Combination Chip and Coolant Systems
For comprehensive chip and coolant management, combination systems integrate multiple separation technologies in a single unit. These advanced solutions typically combine magnetic separation with settling tanks, filtration systems, and coolant recycling capabilities.
- Coolant Tank Capacity: 200 liters to 1,500 liters depending on configuration
- Filtration Fineness: Primary filtration at 100-200 micron, secondary filtration down to 30 microns available
- Recycling Rate: Up to 95% coolant recovery for significant cost savings
- Integration Features: Automatic level control, temperature monitoring, and contamination alerts
Technical Specifications and Selection Criteria
Selecting the appropriate chip conveyor requires careful consideration of multiple technical parameters. The following table provides a comprehensive comparison of key specifications across the main conveyor types available through ASIATOOLS:
| Conveyor Type | Max Chip Load | Coolant Compatibility | Best For | Maintenance Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic | 500 kg/h | Oil-based and water-soluble | Steel, iron, magnetic alloys | 6-12 months |
| Screw | 300 kg/h | All standard coolants | Non-magnetic metals, mixed chips | 12-18 months |
| Hinge Belt | 800 kg/h | Oil-based coolants | Long, stringy chips, aluminum | 3-6 months |
| Scraper Chain | 1,200 kg/h | All standard coolants | Heavy chips, cast iron, high volume | 6-12 months |
| Combination | 1,500 kg/h | All standard coolants | Complete chip and coolant management | Variable by component |
Integration with ASIATOOLS CNC Machines
ASIATOOLS chip conveyor systems are designed for seamless integration with the company’s comprehensive line of CNC equipment. Whether you operate CNC vertical milling machines, CNC duplex milling machines, or CNC double-column milling centers, appropriate conveyor solutions are available.
Important Integration Note: When specifying a chip conveyor for ASIATOOLS equipment, always verify the machine’s chip pan dimensions, coolant system capacity, and floor space availability. ASIATOOLS technical support team can provide detailed dimensional drawings and installation requirements for each machine model.
The integration process typically involves several key considerations that directly impact system performance and operational efficiency. Machine compatibility begins with understanding the specific machining center’s chip discharge location and angle, which varies significantly across different ASIATOOLS models. The company’s vertical milling machines typically feature rear chip discharge points, while double-column models may utilize side-mounted or front-facing discharge systems requiring different conveyor mounting configurations.
Machine-Specific Conveyor Recommendations
- CNC Vertical Milling Machines: Hinge belt or magnetic conveyors recommended for standard production applications; scraper chain for high-volume operations
- CNC Duplex Milling Machines: Combination systems preferred due to dual-spindle operations generating mixed chip types; minimum 800 kg/h capacity required
- CNC Double-Column Milling Centers: Heavy-duty scraper chain conveyors with extended discharge lengths to accommodate larger machine footprints
- Machining Centers: Flexible hinge belt conveyors recommended for navigating complex factory layouts with multiple directional changes
Coolant System Compatibility
ASIATOOLS chip conveyors are engineered to work with the full range of coolant systems installed in their CNC equipment. Understanding coolant specifications ensures optimal conveyor performance and longevity.
- Water-Soluble Coolants: All conveyor types compatible; increased attention to corrosion resistance and drainage design required
- Oil-Based Coolants: Magnetic and screw conveyors particularly effective; built-in oil skimming capabilities available
- Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL): Specialized conveyors with reduced coolant handling for MQL applications
- High-Pressure Coolant Systems: Reinforced conveyor construction required for coolant pressures exceeding 30 bar
Performance Data and Efficiency Metrics
Quantitative performance data helps manufacturing engineers make informed decisions when selecting chip conveyor systems. The following information represents typical specifications for ASIATOOLS-approved conveyor equipment:
| Parameter | Standard Specification | High-Capacity Specification | Premium Specification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 0.75 kW | 1.5 kW | 2.2 kW |
| Conveyor Speed | 1.0-2.0 m/min | 1.5-3.0 m/min | 2.0-4.5 m/min |
| Noise Level | 65-70 dB | 68-73 dB | 62-68 dB |
| Operational Weight Capacity | 400 kg/h | 800 kg/h | 1,500 kg/h |
| Service Life Expectancy | 5-7 years | 7-10 years | 10-15 years |
| Warranty Period | 12 months | 24 months | 36 months |
Material-Specific Considerations
Different workpiece materials generate distinct chip characteristics that directly influence conveyor selection. ASIATOOLS provides specialized guidance for handling chips from various machining materials:
Aluminum and Non-Ferrous Metals
- Chip Characteristics: Long, stringy chips; high chip volume relative to weight; tendency to pack together
- Recommended Conveyor: Hinge belt conveyor with close pitch flights to prevent chip tangling
- Coolant Considerations: Effective dewatering essential due to aluminum’s tendency to retain coolant
- Special Requirements: Corrosion-resistant construction recommended; chip drying option beneficial for recycling
Steel and Alloy Steels
- Chip Characteristics: Brittle chips, high density, potential for sharp edges; variable chip sizes
- Recommended Conveyor: Magnetic conveyor for small parts, scraper chain for high-volume applications
- Coolant Considerations: Heavy chip load capacity required; effective filtration essential for sump life
- Special Requirements: Reinforced construction for handling dense, heavy chips; automatic chip compaction optional
Cast Iron
- Chip Characteristics: Abrasive, powdery chips; extremely heavy chip loads; significant coolant contamination
- Recommended Conveyor: Heavy-duty scraper chain conveyor with high-capacity design
- Coolant Considerations: Multi-stage filtration required; high-volume coolant recovery beneficial
- Special Requirements: Wear-resistant components essential; automatic cleaning cycle recommended
Stainless Steel and High-Temperature Alloys
- Chip Characteristics: Tough, stringy chips; work-hardening tendency; high heat generation
- Recommended Conveyor: Combination system with magnetic pre-separation and screw conveyor for discharge
- Coolant Considerations: High-pressure coolant compatibility required; specialized filtration for oil-based coolants
- Special Requirements: Heat-resistant construction; chip fragmentation option to reduce storage volume
Installation and Space Requirements
Proper installation planning ensures optimal chip conveyor performance and simplifies maintenance operations. ASIATOOLS provides comprehensive installation guidelines for all conveyor systems:
Planning Tip from ASIATOOLS Technical Team: When designing your chip conveyor layout, always plan for a minimum 800mm maintenance access zone on at least one side of the conveyor. This accessibility significantly reduces service time and allows for efficient component inspection without disrupting production.
Floor Space Planning
- Standard Installation: 1.5m x 3.0m minimum footprint for basic conveyor setup including electrical cabinet
- Combination Systems: 2.5m x 4.5m minimum footprint for integrated chip and coolant management systems
- Height Requirements: Minimum 2.2m clearance above conveyor for maintenance access; discharge point height determines overall system elevation
- Discharge Container Space: Minimum 1.0m clearance around chip collection container for removal and replacement
Electrical Requirements
- Power Supply: 380-415V three-phase, 50Hz standard; 200-240V single-phase available for smaller units
- Power Connection: Direct wiring to machine control cabinet or dedicated conveyor control panel
- Control Integration: ASIATOOLS machines feature built-in conveyor control interfaces; plug-and-play connection standard
- Emergency Stop: Conveyor emergency stop circuit integrated with machine safety system
Maintenance Requirements and Service Intervals
Regular maintenance ensures consistent conveyor performance and extends equipment service life. ASIATOOLS-approved maintenance schedules optimize uptime while preventing unexpected failures:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Estimated Time | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | Daily | 5-10 minutes | Operator |
| Chain/Belt Tension Check | Weekly | 15-20 minutes | Operator |
| Lubrication Service | Monthly | 30-45 minutes | Technician |
| Wear Component Inspection | Quarterly | 1-2 hours | Technician |
| Motor and Drive Service | Semi-Annual | 2-3 hours | Specialist |
| Complete System Overhaul | Annual | 4-8 hours | Service Engineer |
Common Wear Components and Replacement Intervals
- Conveyor Belt/Hinge Strips: Replacement every 2,000-4,000 operating hours depending on chip load
- Drive Chain: Replacement every 3,000-5,000 operating hours with regular lubrication
- Guide Rails: