What are Unit and Package Handling Drum Pulleys?
PCI unit and package handling drum pulleys (FC and MC Series) are used in numerous locations within a conveyor system such as head positions to drive a belt, or in return/tail, snub, bend and take-up orientations when belt tension and redirection is needed. Each series provide numerous choices for hassle-free selection in most standard to medium duty drum pulley applications. The main difference between these two products is the method used to crown the pulley face when a crown profile is specified. FC Series pulleys receive a crown that is formed into the face of the pulley while MC Series pulleys utilize machining operations to accomplish the crowned profile. Because MC Series pulleys require machining, they are typically constructed from thicker materials as well. Both FC and MC Series pulleys ordered with vulcanized lagging would receive a crown machined into the lagging versus a crown provided in the core. Both series feature PCI Trapezoidal Crown Technology.
Product Offering
FC Series
FC Series pulleys are manufactured from gauge wall or light duty tubing to hold tight tolerances for reliable conveyor performance.
Diameters Available: 2″ thru 12″
HUB TYPES:
All Hub Types
Including PCI Contoured Integral End Disks
Hub style availability will vary based on pulley construction.
MC Series
MC Series pulleys are manufactured from medium or heavy wall tube and receive a machined crown when a crown is specified.
Diameters Available: 2″ thru 12.75″
HUB TYPES:
All Hub Types
Including PCI Contoured Integral End Disks
Hub style availability will vary based on pulley construction.
Also available in Aluminum construction . PCI Aluminum pulleys offer an economical, light-weight corrosion resistant alternative to stainless steel. Available in a range of diameters and material thicknesses in either Type 2 or Type 3 hub styles.
PCI Contoured Integral End Disks
PCI® Contoured Integral End Disks are designed to maximize conveyor pulley life by reducing the risk of failure from end disk fatigue. PCI’s design eliminates the need for a hub-to-disk weld by machining a hub directly into the surface of the end disk. In addition, PCI’s special contour optimizes the surface stress of the end disk by allowing for adequate flexibility not provided by flat disk designs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does a pulley’s load capacity increase by increasing pulley material thicknesses?
While component thicknesses do contribute to overall pulley capacity, shaft diameter plays the primary role in achieving a desired load capacity. In other words, selecting a pulley with thicker components (Mine Duty over Heavy Duty, MC Series over FC Series) won’t necessarily achieve a greater load capacity if the axle is not sized to accommodate the application loads.
What is the longest length of conveyor pulley that PCI can offer?
PCI can manufacture pulleys with face lengths greater than 14 feet. Pulleys of this length require special consideration to account for shaft deflection. Small diameter pulleys of increased face length commonly utilize fixed stub shafts in place of traditional through shaft designs. Fixed stub shafts decrease the likelihood of end disk fatigue, as a result of shaft deflection. (For additional information, please see PCI Pulley Selection Guide)
When is a hub keyway needed in a conveyor pulley?
The purpose of a hub keyway is to help the transmission of torque from a shaft to the pulley in a drive application. Hub keyways are utilized on pulleys that are driving a belt. Most often, the pulley and belt are being turned by the shaft which is being powered by a motor, gearbox, or sprocket. The hub keyways provide the bushing another point of contact to help drive the torque from the motor or gearbox.
When is a hub keyway NOT needed in a conveyor pulley?
The pulley that is in a non-drive position, is driven by the belt and not the shaft. When utilizing compression hubs and bushings there is sufficient grip on the shaft from the bushings themselves. A hub keyway is not needed for pulleys that operate in driven (non-drive) positions.
Drum: What is the difference between an FC Series and an MC Series Pulley?
The main difference between these products is the method used to crown the pulley face when a crown profile is specified. FC Series pulleys receive a crown that is formed into the face of the pulley while MCF Series pulleys utilize machining operations to accomplish the profile. Because MC Series pulleys require machining, they are typically constructed from thicker materials as well.
Drum: Are all MC Series pulleys provided with a fully machined face?
MC Series designates that when a crown is required, the crown is machined into the face of the pulley rather than formed into it. Flat face pulleys and non-crowned surfaces would not necessarily receive machining unless otherwise specified.
Drum: Does my application require a Heavy Duty or a Mine Duty conveyor pulley?
The difference between a Heavy Duty and a Mine Duty conveyor pulley is component thickness. The thicker the components used, the greater the series name (heavy, mine, etc.). Applications with impact loads require consideration of component thicknesses for purposes of strength. Applications with loose, bulk materials require consideration to account for abrasion resistance and the increased possibility of point loading between the pulley and belt.
Drum: Do Contoured Integral End Disks provide a greater load capacity than welded hub styles?
PCI Contoured Integral End Disks provide an even distribution of stress and reduce the risk of end disk fatigue near the hub. While this upgrade yields a higher safety factor for the drum pulley, if shaft size remains unchanged, the two drums achieve a similar load capacity.
Product Specific Resources
Downloads
Stainless Steel Pulleys
Pulley Assemblies
Lagging & Coating
Shafting
