Insertion bars for systems of interchangeable cams

Insertion bars and feather keys serve as the basis for systems of interchangeable cams. These are used when permanent attachment of the cams by welding them onto the conveyor belt is not possible or not desired. Interchangeable cams are usually screwed onto the belt, but they can also be slid onto a mounting profile or fixed by means of a magnetic connection. The distances between the cams can be freely selected for all interchangeable cam systems, but they are always linked to the tooth pitch.

Advantages of interchangeable cams

Interchangeable cams can be replaced quickly and easily. This allows the production line to be swiftly adapted to changing transport goods, for example when different parts are to be transported on the same line. For the replacement of the cams, the timing belt can remain installed in the machine. Dismantling of the belt, which is often cumbersome and time-consuming, is therefore not necessary.
Damaged or worn cams can be replaced individually. In the event of a repair, the entire belt does not need to be replaced, but only individual cams. This saves resources and costs.
Cams made of materials that cannot be welded directly to the conveyor belt can be reliably fastened using screw systems. This is the case, for example, with cams made of metal, ceramic or rubber.

Preparation of the timing belt and mounting of the inserts

To integrate the inserts into the timing belt, the teeth at the positions where the cams are to be located must first be removed by CNC milling. Waterjet cutting is used to produce through holes up to the back of the belt for the screw-in threads. The removed teeth are then replaced by an insert bar or a feather key with screw-in threads. Depending on the design of the conveyor belt, the inserts are individually adapted to its width and tooth profile.

Material selection

When selecting the most suitable material for your application, we take into account both the conditions of use and the ambient influences.

Plastic inserts are inexpensive to manufacture and are suitable for simple applications without special strain.
Brass inserts are used for all standard applications. They are robust and versatile.
Stainless steel inserts are particularly suitable for applications in the food industry. They are resistant to chemicals and cleaning agents and meet the highest hygiene standards. FoodGuard belts with stainless steel inserts are available with FDA certification for direct food contact.

Several systems available

Our range includes all common types of inserts for systems of interchangeable cams:

Feather keys type - N: Feather keys are embedded in the teeth of the timing belt. These are provided with screw-in threads that go through up to the back of the belt. There, the interchangeable cams can be screwed on. The number of threads depends on the width of the belt.
Insertion bars type - M: The insertion bars replace an entire tooth over the full width of the belt. After first removing the respective tooth and making the corresponding through holes for the threaded inserts, the insert bar can be mounted from the tooth side and the interchangeable cam can be screwed onto the back of the belt.
ATN-system: Here, inserts are mounted in the belt tooth onto which either the cam is screwed directly or a mounting profile is screwed as an adapter. According to the modular system, different cams can be slid onto the adapter.

Individual production of the inserts

No matter which system and material you choose, at Alphabelt you get individually produced inserts that are precisely matched to the operating conditions, the width of the belt and the tooth geometry. Even small production quantities we are happy to manufacture for you. On request, we can advise you on your selection - free of charge and without any obligation. Just contact us, we look forward to your inquiry!