In-Floor Chain Towline Conveyors
A chain in the floor that pulls carts along your manufacturing line at a steady pace.
What it is
An in-floor towline conveyor runs a drive chain in a steel track set into a trench in the floor. Carts with a tow pin engage the chain and are pulled along a fixed route at a set speed. Because the chain sits below the floor, the line leaves an open, flat surface that people and lift trucks can cross.
Carts can be routed through spurs, switches and accumulation lanes and pulled off the line for rework or storage. Cart-on-track variations guide the cart along the track itself, which suits heavier assemblies and precise station positions.
Where it fits
In-floor towlines fit assembly of large products, furniture and cabinet finishing, appliance and equipment manufacturing, distribution of heavy carts and any line where parts are built up on a cart as it moves from station to station. They are well suited to plants that want a paced line without overhead structure.
Our role
We sell, install and service in-floor chain towline and cart conveyors. Our team coordinates the route, trench and concrete work with your general contractor, installs the track, drive and take-up, sets up carts and controls and commissions the line. We also extend, reroute and repair existing towlines.
Because our team also handles related equipment, this scope can be packaged with neighboring systems under one point of contact. We work nationwide from our headquarters in Sioux Falls, SD. We support owners, plant managers, engineers and general contractors from first layout through ongoing service.
Our process
-
Scope
We review drawings, site conditions, loads and schedule, then confirm what the project needs.
-
Specify
We recommend equipment and layouts, coordinate manufacturers and price the complete package.
-
Install
Our field teams deliver, install and commission the equipment in coordination with your GC and trades.
-
Support
After handover we provide service, adjustments, parts coordination and expansions.
Frequently asked questions
How is an in-floor towline installed?
A trench is cut or formed in the concrete, the track and chain are set and the floor is finished flush. We coordinate the trench and concrete work with your contractor.
Can forklifts cross the line?
Yes. The track sits flush with the floor, so traffic can cross it with the right covers and floor plates.
Can carts leave the line?
Yes. Carts disengage from the chain at spurs and switches for rework, storage or manual stations.
Towline or overhead conveyor?
Towlines suit heavy loads on carts and keep overhead space clear. Overhead conveyors keep parts off the floor and free floor space. Process and building decide the choice.
Often paired with
-
Conveyors
Roller, belt, overhead and in-floor conveyors that keep product moving from receiving to shipping and along production lines.
-
Power and Free Conveyors
Overhead conveying that lets each carrier stop, queue and switch routes on its own.
-
Paint Booths
Spray booths that contain overspray and deliver clean, consistent coatings.
-
Roller and Belt Conveyors
Reliable floor conveyors that move cartons, totes and products between processes.
Planning a in-floor towline conveyors project?
Share drawings, specs or photos and our sales team will help scope the right solution.
Request a Quote