Reverse Engineering Conveyor Chain: Spare Parts Without the OEM

Many plants in Indonesia run conveyors built decades ago. When the chain wears out, the same problems come up: the original manufacturer (OEM) has closed, imported spare parts take months to arrive, or the price is simply too high. This is where reverse engineering comes in.

What Is Conveyor Chain Reverse Engineering?

Reverse engineering means recreating a component — in this case conveyor chain — by measuring and analysing a physical sample or existing drawing, then manufacturing it again to the same or a better specification. You no longer depend on the original OEM.

When Do You Need It?

• The OEM no longer operates or no longer makes that chain.
• Import lead times for spare parts are too long and put production at risk.
• The OEM price no longer makes economic sense.
• You want to upgrade the chain material for longer life.
• Only a single old chain sample is left as a reference.

The VOLER Reverse Engineering Process

A structured process ensures the replacement chain is truly precise and reliable:

1. Measurement & analysis: pitch, link dimensions, pins, bushings and profile are measured precisely from the sample or drawing.
2. Material selection: we specify the right material and heat treatment — often better than the original.
3. Working drawings: a complete technical drawing is produced as the basis for production and QC.
4. Production & forging: links are forged and machined to the drawing.
5. Quality control: dimensional, hardness and breaking-load tests confirm conformity with the specification.

The Result: Precise, Fast and Economical

Reverse engineering gives you a replacement chain that fits, without replacing the entire conveyor. Lead times are shorter because it is made locally, and quality is assured by strict QC. Suitable for drag chain conveyors, apron feeders and scraper conveyors.

Conclusion

Hard-to-find conveyor chain no longer has to be a nightmare. With VOLER reverse engineering you get precise spare parts without depending on the OEM — faster, more economical and with assured quality. Have an old chain sample? Send it to our team for analysis.