Described are a self-lubricating, overhead conveyor system and the component
parts thereof. The self-lubricating overhead conveyor system obviates the need
for added lubricants, and comprises three main components: a trolley assembly,
a conveyor chain and a turn wheel assembly. In one embodiment, all three components
are integrated to provide an improved overhead conveyor system; however, individual
components may be used to retrofit conventional overhead conveyor systems. The
trolley assemblies contain a self-lubricating precision ball bearing assembly,
and are joined together by a surface hardened conveyor chain internally treated
to resist corrosion and eliminate flaking. The turn wheel assemblies are configured
to engage the conveyor chain and provide continuous lubrication and cleaning to
the conveyor chain. All components of the conveyor system of the present disclosure
meet criteria established by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
for use in food processing applications.
