Patent ID: 7762391
Filing Date: 2010-07-27
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A conveyor chain comprising: a plurality of substantially identical alternate, elongated main links comprised of a metal material; each of said main links having a longitudinally extending opening formed therein which defines generally U-shaped pivot pin receiving portions at the opposite ends thereof; a non-metallic, generally U-shaped insert positioned in each of said U-shaped pivot pin receiving portions; alternate pairs of substantially identical upper and lower links between said main links which are comprised of a metal material; metal pivot pins interconnecting said main links and said upper and lower links; said metal pivot pins being received by said U-shaped inserts thereby preventing said metal pivot pins from engaging said metal pivot pin receiving portions of said main links; each of said U-shaped inserts having inner and outer surfaces and wherein said inner surface of each of said inserts has a concave portion formed therein and wherein each of said pivot pins has a generally cylindrical center portion which has a convex portion extending therefrom for only a portion of the circumference thereof which is received by said concave portion of said insert.