Chain Conveyor Idler End Unit
CSTRANS supplies tail and idler end units that guide a flexible chain around the end opposite its drive head. The tail connects the return run to the product-carrying run and has to meet the beam and chain geometry at that turnaround. CSTRANS offers 65, 85 and 105 end-unit families for 63, 83 and 103 chains, plus larger semi-enclosed ranges. Matching the end keeps the chain path aligned where products enter the line.
Return path
Guide the chain around the tail
The idler end changes the chain's direction from its return under the beam to its carrying path above. Side plates, driven shaft, sprocket, bearing housing and retaining parts form the CSTRANS end-unit assembly. Their position relative to the beam determines how the chain enters and leaves the turnaround. A matched tail guides links onto the running track before they carry a product, reducing the need for a separate path correction at the first straight section.
Chain family
Match the tail to the chain and beam family
CSTRANS offers 65, 85 and 105 fully enclosed and semi-enclosed tail units for 63, 83 and 103 chains. For 140, 175 and 295 chains, it offers matching 145, 175 and 295 semi-enclosed tail ranges. The 140 chain requires additional form identification: its flat-toothed version uses dedicated tail, beam and wear-strip hardware rather than the same arrangement as the flat-plate version. Matching those mating parts lets the chain pass from tail into beam support without changing its intended route.
Infeed clearance
Leave room for the infeed and service joint
The tail sits close to the point where a product may join the carrying run. Its enclosure, side plates and beam joint occupy space that can affect the infeed support and side-guide position. CSTRANS can align the tail assembly with the existing beam and return path, then check the product approach to the first supported chain links. The shaft, sprocket and bearing housing also provide clear identification points when a worn end unit must be replaced; the visible cover alone cannot confirm internal fit.
Application / Line Context
On a line that turns around equipment, the drive head pulls the chain through the carrying and return paths. At the far end, the tail turns that return back toward the first straight section. If the tail and beam meet at the wrong level, the chain approaches the infeed out of alignment; if the end-unit footprint crowds a neighboring conveyor, product support at entry needs separate attention. The selected chain surface and side guide then govern how products settle onto the carrying run. Tail geometry, beam support and infeed position act together.