Patent ID: 7278536

Claim:
A special link for a chain of plastic modules connected by link pins, the special link being of molded plastic and being adapted for use at intervals to replace a regular link in the chain at such intervals, for the purpose of supporting a threaded stud for poultry processing, comprising: a base portion configured to be similar to a regular link in a chain in which the special link is to be incorporated, a platform just above the base portion, the platform including flanges extending laterally outwardly in opposed directions to extend slightly outwardly widthwise from the base portion and from a chain in which the special link is incorporated, for engagement with stationary slots to stabilize the special links in a processing operation, a threaded boss extending up from the platform, of minimal thickness and integrally molded with the platform and the base portion, the boss comprising a narrow upstanding structure of smaller width and length than the base portion, the boss having a threaded internal bore extending vertically down into the boss, and buttress means integrally molded with the boss and the platform for stabilizing the threaded boss on the platform, whereby, with a series of the special links positioned at desired intervals within a conveyor chain for poultry processing, a threaded stud may be supported in each of the special links to extend upwardly to retain a poultry carcass supporting device in a poultry processing line, the special links being of minimal profile and weight.