| Q1 | What is the stopping accuracy? |
| A1 | Stopping accuracy varies depending on the drive source, control method, and installation direction. In our experimental equipment, the results were ±0.03 mm for both push-up and hanging installations. This is because the sprocket and chain are always in contact with each other when using a lifting or hanging installation, so there is no effect of backlash. When mounted horizontally, the backlash was 0.3 mm. [Measurement conditions: Positioning is performed by pulse control using a servo motor, and repeated operation is performed at the same point while a constant load is applied.] These values are for reference only and are not guaranteed. If there is a load fluctuation, stopping accuracy will decrease.
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| Q2 | What is the degree of backlash? |
| A2 | When the input shaft is fixed, the amount of movement of the chain tip in the stroke direction is considered backlash, and it is approximately 0.3 mm for all sizes of ZCA25, ZCA35, and ZCA45. This is not a guaranteed value. In reality, it will vary depending on the conditions of use, such as travel length amount and installation direction.
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| Q3 | What is the noise level? |
| A3 | Our internal measurement values are as follows: These are reference values and not guaranteed values. Furthermore, noise levels vary depending on the usage conditions (load and speed). [Note] • Ambient noise level during measurement: 42 dB The transported object was guided by a linear guide, and the equivalent noise level (Aeq) was measured during continuous upward and downward operation. (JIS Z 8731:2019 reference) The drive motor and gearbox were soundproofed with covers, and the sound level meter was installed at a height of 1.2m from the floor and a horizontal distance of 1m from the object being measured.
| | load | 167mm/s | 500mm/s | 1000mm/s |
|---|
| ZCA25N030 | 400N | 57.5dB | 70.7dB | 73.2dB | | ZCA35N050 | 1000N | 55.5dB | 67.8dB | 74.9dB | | ZCA45N100 | 1000N | 62.8dB | 69.0dB | - |
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| Q4 | How much vibration is there? |
| A4 | The transported object was guided by a linear guide, and a ZCA35N050 was used to raise and lower 1000N at 1000mm/s. Measurements using an accelerometer installed on the top surface of the transported object revealed that the vibration of the transported object was approximately ±0.20G. The measurement conditions are low speed, excluding acceleration and deceleration, but this value is not guaranteed as it varies depending on the lifting speed.
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| Q5 | For each size, does the allowable thrust decrease when using Long travel length or when used in a suspended position? |
| A5 | The allowable thrust is limited by buckling due to compressive load. This does not apply when only tensile load is acting on the chain, such as in a suspension system. There are restrictions depending on the usage conditions, so please consult us if you intend to use it in a suspended position.
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| Q6 | What is the allowable lateral load? |
| A6 | It cannot withstand lateral loads. Be sure to install a straight guide in the direction of travel.
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| Q7 | What is the allowable torsional load? |
| A7 | The chain cannot bear torsional loads.
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| Q8 | What about maintenance? |
| A8 | Apply grease to Zip Chain. Under normal use, the grease re-lubrication cycle should be the shorter of the following: ・ZCA25: 1 year or 500,000 round trips ・ZCA35: 1 year or 350,000 round trips ・ZCA45: 3.5 months or 100,000 round trips However, this will vary depending on the frequency of use and conditions. Please refer to Instruction Manuals for details.
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| Q9 | How do I supply grease? |
| A9 | To lubricate Zip Chain, first use a brush to remove the old grease, then use the brush to apply the grease evenly directly to the entire Zip Chain. For details on the amount of grease to be added and the method of grease addition, please refer to Instruction Manuals.
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| Q10 | Is there a grease you recommend? |
| A10 | At the time of delivery, the ``Shell Gaddus S2 V220 J 2 (EP)'' manufactured by Shell Lubricants Japan K.K. was used. For other recommended greases, please refer to Instruction Manuals.
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| Q11 | Do I need to apply lubricant? |
| A11 | There is no need to refuel. When refueling, there is a risk that the grease may run off (scatter).
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| Q12 | Is it possible to attach a grease nipple to Zip Chain for greasing? |
| A12 | We can accommodate your request. However, the grease nipple attached to the drive section cannot lubricate the entire chain. For this reason, when a grease nipple is installed, the conditions of use are limited, such as a shorter lifespan and shorter greasing intervals. In addition, a grease plate (option symbol: F) is available as an option, so please use this.
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| Q13 | Are you able to accommodate special (food-grade, low-dusting) grease application specifications? |
| A13 | We can apply the grease you provide. Please submit the SDS for the grease and complete the form regarding its impact on the environment. However, since we cannot confirm compatibility with Zip Chain, this product is not covered under warranty. Furthermore, unlike the recommended grease, we anticipate that the lubrication cycle will be shorter and the lifespan will be shorter. Previously, we would wipe off any of our recommended grease adhering to the outer surface of the chain before applying our supplied grease to the surface. However, currently, we are addressing this issue by applying the grease to the pin bushings during assembly.
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| Q14 | How long does it last? |
| A14 | The lifespan is approximately 4,000 km travel distance, or 6 million cycles for the ZCA25, 4 million cycles for the ZCA35, or 2 million cycles for the ZCA45, whichever is shorter, and this should be considered the time to replace the part. Please note that this may vary depending on the usage conditions and lubrication conditions.
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| Q15 | What determines lifespan? |
| A15 | This is calculated based on the wear life of the chain and the rated life (L10) of the bearings in the drive unit.
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| Q16 | What happens when it reaches the end of its life? |
| A16 | Zip Chain will no longer be a straight column and will be loose. This is due to wear on the contact surfaces between the specially shaped link plates.
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| Q17 | Can I just replace the chain? |
| A17 | It is not possible to replace only the chain. When the ZCA reaches the end of its lifespan, replace the entire unit. When the lifespan of the bearing is reached, please replace it with a new ZCA.
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| Q18 | Does it have a self-locking mechanism? |
| A18 | It is so efficient that it does not have a self-locking mechanism or self-locking properties.
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| Q19 | How much slack does Zip Chain have when installed horizontally? |
| A19 | When the chain is pulled out from the main body for the full stroke, it will bend under its own weight. When the ZCA is installed horizontally, the initial clearance is approximately 0 to 2 mm for the ZCA25 and 0 to 6 mm for the ZCA35 (including play at the drive chain exit). For the ZCA45, the range is 9 to 14 mm for a 1000 mm stroke, 27 to 51 mm for a 1500 mm stroke, and 70 to 135 mm for a 2000 mm stroke. This deflection increases with the number of reciprocating movements. In particular, when the chain case is installed vertically, the amount of deflection tends to be large. Even when installing horizontally, be sure to provide a linear guide.
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| Q20 | Can all options be combined? |
| A20 | Basically, all the options listed in the catalog can be combined. However, the dimensions of each part (lower and upper stroke limits, connection dimensions) may change, so if you need to confirm the dimensions, please let us know the option combination you are considering.
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| Q21 | Is there a model with a motor? |
| A21 | Induction motors include Hypoid Motor with brakes. This is an integrated specification with a hollow shaft type hypoid directly connected to the shaft. Please note that when fixing the bottom of the main unit to a stand, the motor main unit or motor fan cover will be larger than the main unit mounting surface.
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| Q22 | Do you have a model with a servo motor? |
| A22 | All sizes of ZCA25, ZCA35, and ZCA45 are equipped with TERVO (a reducer for servo motors) as standard. For details, please refer to Product Info and catalog.
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| Q23 | Is there a limit to how often it can be started? |
| A23 | If there is no motor, the ZCA depends on the input motor or device, so it follows the capacity of the drive source. On the other hand, for motor-equipped machines, the allowable start-up frequency is determined taking into consideration the motor's inertia and heat generation. When selecting Hypoid Motor, it is necessary to check the inertia ratio, and depending on the combination of ZCA and Hypoid Motor, it may be necessary to limit the starting frequency of Hypoid Motor. Please check the catalogue for details. For operating conditions that exceed the allowable start-up frequency listed in the catalog, it may be possible to use the product by combining it with an inverter or by converting the motor to a servo motor, so please contact us separately.
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| Q24 | Do you have any with a 400V motor? |
| A24 | For all ZCA25M/ZCA35M/ZCA45M models, a 400V class motor can be selected. We will provide a separate quote for this option. However, when using an inverter, the 400V class Hypoid Motor mini series (60/90W) used in the ZCA25M cannot be driven by an inverter. On the other hand, the 400V class Hypoid Motor (0.2/0.4/0.75kW) used in the ZCA35M and ZCA45M can be driven by an inverter. For details, please refer to Instruction Manuals for our small gear motors.
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| Q25 | Can it be operated with an inverter? |
| A25 | For standard 200V class applications, the motors (Hypoid Motor Mini Series 60W/90W) installed on the ZCA25M cannot be used at low frequencies or above 60Hz. On the other hand, the motors installed in the ZCA35M (Hypoid Motor 0.2kW/0.4kW) and the motor installed in the ZCA45M (Hypoid Motor 0.4kW) have torque limitations at low frequencies and above 60Hz. The motor installed in the ZCA45M (Hypoid Motor 0.75kW) is capable of constant torque operation from 6 to 60Hz. Furthermore, do not operate the brakes at high speeds (60Hz or higher). This may cause mechanical damage or abnormal wear of the brake linings. For details, please refer to Instruction Manuals for our small gear motors.
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| Q26 | Why is the thrust generated by motor-equipped motors the same even when the reduction ratio is increased (ZCA35M050EL040H20: 1000N {102.0kgf・m})? |
| A26 | While a larger reduction ratio in the gearbox increases the generated torque, this exceeds the allowable thrust of the ZCA35, so a torque limit is in place. Please be sure to use it within the limits.
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| Q27 | There is no combination of thrust and speed you want with a motor. |
| A27 | If the desired thrust and speed combination is not available in the characteristics table in the catalog, we will provide a separate quote.
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| Q28 | Do models with Hypoid Motor and TERVOs all have the same delivery? |
| A28 | The standard combinations listed in the characteristics table in the catalog will be shipped within three weeks of your order. If you are ordering more than 4 units, please contact us.
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| Q29 | Are there any with bellows for dust prevention? |
| A29 | All ZCA products are available with bellows. If the mounting direction is lifting or hanging, the standard bellows (option code: J1) will be used. Please note that bellows are consumable items, so we cannot guarantee that they will have the same lifespan as ZCA.
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| Q30 | Can the bellows be installed horizontally? |
| A30 | If Zip Chain is installed in a position where its direction of movement is horizontal, the bellows and chain will interfere with each other, causing early damage. A special bellows incorporating parts to prevent interference with the chain is required, so please select option code: J2.
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| Q31 | Is it possible to use servo motors (manufacturer and model number) other than those listed in the catalog with the TERVO servo motor reducer? |
| A31 | We can also provide special support for servo motors not listed in the catalog. Please contact us for details.
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| Q32 | Can bellows be attached afterwards? |
| A32 | Previously, this was not possible, but now it is possible (with the exception of horizontal mounting bellows). However, please note that if bellows are added to the basic model, the allowable stroke will change due to the shrinkage of the bellows. (For example, if bellows are retrofitted to ZCA35N050EL, Lmin will change from 131mm to 220mm, and the allowable stroke will change from 500mm to 411mm.)
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| Q33 | When power is transmitted by a chain, does the bellows interfere? |
| A33 | The bellows protrude slightly from the main body. Please refer to Instruction Manuals for the amount of protrusion and select a sprocket that does not interfere.
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| Q34 | Are bellows-type designs available for special environments (heat resistance, low dust generation, spatter resistance, etc.)? |
| A34 | If you let us know your usage conditions and environment, we will consider a suitable bellows for you. Please note that the bellows are consumables. We cannot guarantee that they will last as long as the ZCA. Furthermore, if the minimum height in the retracted state differs due to the bellows, the lower (upper) limit of the stroke will also differ. Please contact us for more details.
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| Q35 | The tapped hole on End fitting seems small. Is it strong enough? |
| A35 | The dimensions are determined through stress analysis. There is no problem in terms of strength.
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| Q36 | Can you provide special End fitting? |
| A36 | Yes, it is possible. However, you will need to consider the balance of strength with Zip Chain.
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| Q37 | Is there a model with the input shaft facing in the opposite direction? |
| A37 | Standard shaft arrangements available are L (standard), R (reverse shaft), and T (double shaft).
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| Q38 | Is it possible to accommodate special input shafts? |
| A38 | Double shaft type, shaft diameter, shaft length, key size, etc. are available. Please contact us.
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| Q39 | How can you tell the difference between the basic type and the one with the input shaft facing backwards? |
| A39 | In the basic configuration, with the input axis facing you, the chain is positioned to the left of the input axis, and in the opposite direction of the input axis, the chain is positioned to the right of the input axis. The positional relationship between the input shaft and the chain is the same in the case of a dual-axis (T) configuration. After distinguishing between the basic configuration and the input shaft in the reverse direction, determine the rotation direction of the drive unit.
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| Q40 | Is there a cover for the drive opening? |
| A40 | Caps are available as an option. For model numbers, please refer to Product Info. However, there are no caps provided for the chain entrance and exit. If you need to prevent the intrusion of dust, etc., please select the optional bellows type. *ZCA25 does not come with a cap as it does not have an opening.
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| Q41 | Are there any precautions to take when using them in conjunction with each other? |
| A41 | Please note that the allowable thrust multiplied by the number of linked units does not equal the allowable thrust when linked. Furthermore, if the ZCA configuration is a straight line such as drive source ~ ZCA1 ~ ZCA2, please ensure that the allowable input shaft torque of the ZCA is less than or equal to the required torque of the drive source. For details, please refer to the "technical data and Selection" section in the catalog.
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| Q42 | Can you handle strokes other than those listed in the catalog model list? |
| A42 | The standard stroke lineup includes two sizes for the ZCA25, three sizes for the ZCA35, and three sizes for the ZCA45. We recommend using standard products in terms of price and delivery time. Regarding special strokes other than the standard products, we may not be able to meet your request due to issues such as chain buckling strength, wear characteristics, and structure, but we may be able to accommodate your request, so please contact us for details.
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| Q43 | Is there enough stroke? |
| A43 | Be sure to use within the stroke range of Lmin and Lmax specified in the catalog without considering any allowances. If the stroke is exceeded, an internal collision will occur, causing serious damage to the inside of the main body.
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| Q44 | Can the storage section be changed to steel? |
| A44 | Modifications are possible, but there are restrictions on structure and functionality. Please contact us.
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| Q45 | Can it be used in a clean room? |
| A45 | We do not offer cleanroom services. The services we can provide are as follows: ・Comes with a bellows (a bellows for cleaning purposes is also available). - Specified grease application specifications *Similar to special greases, its lifespan will be reduced. Please increase the frequency of lubrication beyond the cycle specified in the catalog.
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| Q46 | Can the resin material of the storage compartment be changed? |
| A46 | The storage section is made of polyacetal. When changing the material or color, all parts are machined. Also, physical properties change depending on the material, so please contact us for details.
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| Q47 | Will a chain break if it buckles? |
| A47 | When a vertical load is applied to a chain, it will reach a certain load and begin to bend. The load at this time is the buckling load. However, since the bending occurs due to the misalignment of multiple stacked plates, the chain will not break. However, once a chain has been buckled, it is dangerous and should not be reused.
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| Q48 | I would like to see the actual product. Do you have any samples? |
| A48 | Manual samples are available, please contact us.
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| Q49 | Are there any precautions to take when installing it by hanging? |
| A49 | When using the product in a suspended position, we may issue a safety confirmation form (confirmation regarding safety and intended use) in advance and ask the customer to fill it out and return it. Be sure to install a safety device in case the chain breaks. Furthermore, safety fences have been installed, and please do not go under any circumstances beneath any suspended objects.
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| Q50 | Can the chain come off? |
| A50 | There is a stopper at the end of the chain to prevent it from slipping out. However, this is intended to prevent the chain from coming off in an emergency, and during normal use it should be used within the stroke range of Lmin to Lmax. Never use the stopper to restrict the stroke and prevent the chain from coming off. This could damage the stopper and cause the chain to come off, which is extremely dangerous.
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| Q51 | When I unwind the chain, End fitting may twist a little. Is this ok? |
| A51 | Zip Chain is made up of many interlocking links that form a rod, so even a slight twist between the links may cause End fitting to twist slightly. There are no problems as all units are checked when assembled. However, twisting due to external force is not acceptable.
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| Q52 | Can sensors etc. be attached to the ZCA? |
| A52 | Sensors and other components cannot be attached to the ZCA unit. Please install the ZCA into the equipment. (Installation is the customer's responsibility.)
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| Q53 | Does End fitting always have to be fixed to the driven side? |
| A53 | The allowable thrust for each size is subject to the condition that End fitting is fixed to the driven side. When the tip is fixed in a rotating manner, the buckling load on Zip Chain is reduced to about half, similar to general buckling theory. Therefore, there will be limitations on the load capacity, so please consult with us.
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| Q54 | Are there any restrictions on the installation direction? |
| A54 | It can be mounted in any direction, including horizontally, vertically, and suspended. However, when installing horizontally or in a suspended direction, there is a risk of equipment damage if the weight of the ZCA itself and the weight (force) of the transported object are applied to the mounting bolts. Please use an installation method that does not support the load with mounting bolts.
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| Q55 | Can it be used outdoors? |
| A55 | If used outdoors, there is a risk of malfunction of the chain or main body due to foreign objects getting caught in the chain, and there is also a risk of loss of lubrication and corrosion due to rainwater, condensation, humidity, etc. We do not recommend using it outdoors as it may not be able to achieve its intended performance and lifespan.
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| Q56 | What is the maximum operating temperature? |
| A56 | The operating temperature varies depending on whether or not a motor is used. Without a motor, the temperature range is 0 to 60°C. On the other hand, with a motor, the temperature range is set to 0 to 40°C due to the motor's limitations. Please contact us if you plan to use the product at temperatures between 40 and 60°C.
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| Q57 | Why is there a discontinuity in the sealing material on the mating surface of the storage section? |
| A57 | Caulking material is applied evenly to the mating surfaces of the storage area. Because this is a resin molded product, the position of the mating surfaces may vary slightly for each product. You may be concerned about appearance, but please use it with confidence.
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| Q58 | Why does a quote need to be provided for a hanging installation? |
| A58 | When using hanging installation, safety checks are essential in case the workpiece falls due to the chain breaking or ZCA being damaged. When we provide you with a quote, we will issue a "Confirmation of the safety and intended use of the product" and we ask for your cooperation.
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| Q59 | Can I attach a handle? |
| A59 | A handle can be attached. When manually inputting rotation and torque, the ZCA is very efficient, so depending on the installation direction, it may reverse due to the applied load. Please handle with care.
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| Q60 | Are the allowable thrust and the load that can be held the same? |
| A60 | The ZCA (Zero-Speed Carrier) has the same allowable thrust and the same load it can hold while stationary.
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| Q61 | Since stroke is a priority, I would like to use the ZCA35N050 to lift and lower a load of about 100N. Are there any points I should be aware of? |
| A61 | ZCA requires torque even when unloaded, due to bearing friction and chain sliding, regardless of whether there is a load or not. If the ratio of this average no-load operating torque is large compared to the torque required for lifting (approximately 25%), this torque may have a significant impact during startup, resulting in uneven operation. In that case, when selecting the required input torque, multiply the no-load operating torque by 1.5 and select the appropriate drive source.
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| Q62 | It takes quite a bit of force (it's heavy) to pull out the chain. Is that a problem? |
| A62 | ZCA has a special structure to give the chain rigidity, which is why it requires force to mesh the chains together. This force is the average no-load moving torque. Please refer to the catalog for detailed values. This value may be higher at first, but this is just the initial settling in. It will gradually stabilize, so continue using it as is.
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| Q63 | What is the relationship between the input shaft rotation direction and the chain extension direction? |
| A63 | In the basic configuration, the input shaft rotates clockwise (CW direction) relative to the shaft, causing the chain to rise, and counterclockwise (CCW direction) rotation causes the chain to descend. If the input axis is in the opposite direction, it will rise in a counterclockwise direction (CCW) and fall in a clockwise direction (CW) relative to the axis. Furthermore, if a motor is included, the direction of the motor's output rotation will differ depending on the selected chain speed. Please refer to the catalog and Instruction Manuals to confirm the wiring, rotation direction, and chain movement before installing the device. Please be extremely careful, as differences in the direction of rotation may cause injury or damage to the equipment.
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| Q64 | Can I use the chain by stopping it at the end? |
| A64 | Do not stop the product at the stroke end under any circumstances, as this may cause serious damage to the inside of the product.
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| Q65 | Can it stop at multiple points? |
| A65 | Can be used for multi-point stopping applications. Basically, there is no limit to the stopping interval. However, the stopping accuracy varies depending on the mounting direction, backlash, etc. Also, if the stop interval becomes shorter, there may be restrictions on the start frequency.
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| Q66 | What is the relationship between the allowable input shaft torque and the allowable thrust? |
| A66 | Allowable input shaft torque is the maximum torque that can be applied to the input shaft of the ZCA. This value was calculated from the force required when accelerating at an allowable thrust of 0.35G. The torque calculation assumes that the force acts along the radius of the sprocket's PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter).
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| Q67 | Does the performance differ depending on whether the chain case is mounted vertically or horizontally when mounted horizontally? |
| A67 | The basic performance is the same whether the chain case is mounted vertically or horizontally when mounted horizontally. However, the amount of deflection when only the chain is pulled out from the main body is slightly greater when mounted vertically. Once the guide is attached, the mounting method will be the same regardless of the method.
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| Q68 | Why does the rated thrust decrease for Long travel length in each size? |
| A68 | The allowable buckling load of Zip Chain limits the allowable thrust in the case of Long travel length.
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| Q69 | How do I request a certificate of non-applicability? |
| A69 | Please ask your point of purchase for a certificate of non-applicability.
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| Q70 | How much stroke extension can be provided? |
| A70 | This varies depending on the conditions of use, so please contact us for details.
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