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The Importance of Proper Conveyor Chain Tension and Pacline’s New Chain Tension Indicator for The PAC-LINE™ Overhead Conveyor

by | Jun 26, 2025 | Articles

Chain Tension Indicator window located on the take-up assembly expansion unit for the PAC-LINE™ enclosed track overhead conveyor system.

At Pacline, we know that small, smart innovations can make a big difference in daily operations. That’s why we’ve introduced a new Chain Tension Indicator window located on the take-up assembly expansion unit for the PAC-LINE™ enclosed track overhead conveyor system. The new feature is designed to make routine maintenance faster, easier, and more effective. 

Why Overhead Conveyor Chain Tension Matters 

Over time, the chain on an overhead conveyor elongates due to chain stretch. This gradual stretch will reduce tension in the system, leading to improper operation, increased wear on components, and even unexpected downtime. The take-up unit’s springs help counteract this tension loss, but these springs have limits. Therefore, periodic chain tension adjustments are essential for maintaining optimal conveyor performance. 

A Simple Way to Stay Ahead of Conveyor Chain Maintenance 

To make maintenance easier and more intuitive, Pacline has introduced a Chain Tension Indicator window as part of our conveyor chain take-up unit. The feature provides maintenance personnel with a visual queue for assessment of chain tension using a color-coded sticker system: 

Green

Pacline-Conveyor-Chain-Tension-Indicator-Green

Chain tension is within the optimal range

Yellow

Pacline-Conveyor-Chain-Tension-Indicator-Yellow

Chain tension is approaching the limit and should be adjusted soon

Red

Pacline-Conveyor-Chain-Tension-Indicator-Red

Immediate attention is required to restore proper tension

One of the most significant advantages of the Chain Tension Indicator window is that it eliminates the need for maintenance staff to physically access the take-up expansion unit to check chain tension. This is especially helpful when the unit is installed in hard-to-reach or elevated areas. You also don’t need to be a maintenance technician to spot potential issues. 

Unlike generic indicator lights on a system control panel, which can be vague or misinterpreted, this window provides a direct, visual status. With clear green, yellow, and red color coding, anyone can instantly understand the tension condition without tools, guesswork, or ladders, making inspections faster, safer, and more efficient. 

Easy Retrofit for Existing PAC-LINE™ Systems 

Do you already have a PAC-LINE™ system in operation? No problem. We offer a simple retrofit kit, a bolt-on assembly that converts your existing take-up unit to the new style featuring the Chain Tension Indicator window. Installation is quick and straightforward, with no need for welding or custom modifications. Contact us to purchase a retrofit kit and bring the latest maintenance convenience to your existing system. 

Committed to Continuous Improvement 

By listening to customer feedback and understanding the demands of industrial operations, we develop practical solutions that can reduce unplanned downtime, maintain smooth operations, improve safety, and extend equipment life. The new Chain Tension Indicator reflects that commitment, a low-cost, high-impact feature that brings greater transparency and ease to your conveyor maintenance routines.

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