| 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 in-house measurements are as follows: These are reference values and not guaranteed values. Additionally, noise levels vary depending on usage conditions (load and speed). [Note] -Background noise during measurement: 42dB - The transported object was guided by a linear guide, and the equivalent sound pressure level Aeq was measured when the object was continuously raised and lowered. (JIS Z 8731:1999 reference) The drive motor and reducer were soundproofed with covers, and the sound level meter was installed 1.2 m above the floor and 1 m horizontally from the object to be 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 basic capacity decrease when used with Long travel length or suspended? |
| A5 | As mentioned above, the basic capacity is limited by buckling due to compressive load. This does not apply when only a tensile load acts on the chain, such as when hanging. There are limitations depending on the conditions of use, so please contact us if you plan to use the ZCA35 stroke 1000 mm near its basic capacity.
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| Q6 | Is the allowable capacity the same when operating at low acceleration and when operating at high acceleration? |
| A6 | The basic capacity is set with an acceleration of 0.35G in mind. Therefore, if you operate at an acceleration lower than the set value, you may be able to increase the basic capacity.
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| Q7 | What is the allowable lateral load? |
| A7 | It cannot withstand lateral loads. Be sure to install a straight guide in the direction of travel.
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| Q8 | What is the allowable torsional load? |
| A8 | The chain cannot bear torsional loads.
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| Q9 | What about maintenance? |
| A9 | 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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| Q10 | How do I supply grease? |
| A10 | 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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| Q11 | Is there a grease you recommend? |
| A11 | 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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| Q12 | Do I need to apply lubricant? |
| A12 | There is no need to lubricate. If you do so, the grease may flow off (splash).
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| Q13 | Is it possible to attach a grease nipple to Zip Chain for greasing? |
| A13 | 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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| Q14 | Are special (food-grade, low-dust-generating) grease application specifications available? |
| A14 | It is possible to apply the grease if you provide it to us. Please submit the MSDS for the grease and fill out a confirmation form regarding its impact on the environment. However, since we cannot confirm compatibility with Zip Chain, it is not covered by the warranty. Also, unlike the recommended grease, the lubrication cycle is shorter and the lifespan is likely to be shorter. Previously, we would wipe off the recommended grease from the outer surface of the chain and then apply the supplied grease to the surface, but now we apply the grease to the pin bushings first during assembly.
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| Q15 | How long does it last? |
| A15 | If you use the basic capacity to travel the full stroke, you should consider replacing it after travel distance of approximately 4,000 km. If the stroke is 300 mm, it will last approximately 6 million times, if the stroke is 500 mm, it will last approximately 4 million times, and if the stroke is 1,000 mm, it will last approximately 2 million times. This will vary depending on the conditions of use and lubrication.
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| Q16 | What determines lifespan? |
| A16 | It is calculated based on the wear life of the chain and the rated life (B10) of the drive bearing.
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| Q17 | What happens when it reaches the end of its life? |
| A17 | 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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| Q18 | Can I just replace the chain? |
| A18 | 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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| Q19 | Does it have a self-locking mechanism? |
| A19 | It is so efficient that it does not have a self-locking mechanism or self-locking properties.
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| Q20 | How much slack does Zip Chain have when installed horizontally? |
| A20 | 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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| Q21 | Can all options be combined? |
| A21 | Basically, all options listed in the catalog can be combined. However, the dimensions of each part (lower and upper stroke limits, mating dimensions) may change, so if you need to confirm the dimensions, please contact us with the option combination you are considering.
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| Q22 | Is there a model with a motor? |
| A22 | 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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| Q23 | Do you have a model with a servo motor? |
| A23 | 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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| Q24 | Is there a limit to how often it can be started? |
| A24 | 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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| Q25 | Is there a voltage doubler? |
| A25 | A 400V class motor can be selected for both the ZCA025M and ZCA135M. However, when driven by an inverter, Hypoid Motor mini series (60/90W) used in the ZCA025M does not have measures in place to protect against high voltage surges (microsurges) generated by inverter switching, so using an inverter can cause early insulation breakdown. On the other hand, Hypoid Motor (0.1/0.2/0.4kW) used in the ZCA135M is a standard product that has microsurge protection. For details, please refer to Instruction Manuals for our small gear motor.
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| Q26 | Can it be operated with an inverter? |
| A26 | For the standard 200V class, the motor (Hypoid Motor 60W/90W) attached to the ZCA25M cannot be used at low frequencies or above 60Hz. On the other hand, the motors (Hypoid Motor 0.2kW/0.4kW) installed on the ZCA35M and the motors (Hypoid Motor 0.4kW/0.75kW) installed on the ZCA45M have torque limitations at low frequencies and above 60Hz. In addition, do not operate the brakes at high speeds (60Hz or higher) as this may cause mechanical damage or excessive wear to the brake lining. For details, please refer to Instruction Manuals for our small gear motor.
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| Q27 | Why is the thrust generated by motor-equipped motors the same even when the reduction ratio is increased (ZCA35M050EL040H20: 1000N {102.0kgf・m})? |
| A27 | As the reduction ratio of the reducer increases, the generated torque also increases, but since this exceeds the basic capacity of the ZCA35, a torque limit is set. Be sure to use within the limits.
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| Q28 | There is no combination of thrust and speed you want with a motor. |
| A28 | 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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| Q29 | Do models with Hypoid Motor and TERVOs all have the same delivery? |
| A29 | 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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| Q30 | Is a mounting base required? |
| A30 | The ZCA body has mounting taps not only on the bottom of the drive unit but also on the sides, allowing for flexibility. For hanging installation, a mounting base is required. Please note that a quote will be required for hanging installation.
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| Q31 | Are there any with bellows for dust prevention? |
| A31 | 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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| Q32 | Can the bellows be installed horizontally? |
| A32 | 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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| Q33 | Is it possible to use servo motors (manufacturers and model numbers) other than those listed in the catalogue with the TERVO servo motor reducer? |
| A33 | We can also provide special support for servo motors not listed in the catalog. Please contact us for details.
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| Q34 | Can bellows be attached afterwards? |
| A34 | 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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| Q35 | When power is transmitted by a chain, does the bellows interfere? |
| A35 | 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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| Q36 | Is it possible to provide products with bellows that are suitable for special environments (heat resistance, low dust generation, spatter resistance, etc.)? |
| A36 | If you let us know the conditions and environment of use, we will consider providing a suitable bellows. Please note that the bellows are consumable items and we do not guarantee that they will have the same lifespan as the ZCA. Also, if the minimum height when retracted differs depending on the bellows, the lower (upper) limit of the stroke will also differ. Please contact us for more details.
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| Q37 | The tapped hole on End fitting seems small. Is it strong enough? |
| A37 | The dimensions are determined through stress analysis. There is no problem in terms of strength.
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| Q38 | Can you provide special End fitting? |
| A38 | Yes, it is possible. However, you will need to consider the balance of strength with Zip Chain.
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| Q39 | Is there a model with the input shaft facing in the opposite direction? |
| A39 | Standard shaft arrangements available are L (standard), R (reverse shaft), and T (double shaft).
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| Q40 | Is it possible to accommodate special input shafts? |
| A40 | Double shaft type, shaft diameter, shaft length, key size, etc. are available. Please contact us.
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| Q41 | How can you tell the difference between the basic type and the one with the input shaft facing backwards? |
| A41 | In the basic configuration, the chain is positioned to the left of the input shaft when looking at it from the front, and in the reverse direction the chain is positioned to the right of the input shaft. In the case of a double shaft (T), the positional relationship between the input shaft and the chain is the same. After distinguishing between the basic type and the reversed input shaft, determine the rotation direction of the drive unit.
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| Q42 | I would like to provide a separate mounting tap on the drive unit. Is this possible? |
| A42 | The ZCA35 also has mounting taps on the side of the drive unit. First, please consider installing it using the tap in the standard position. If you need to add a mounting tap other than the standard position, please contact us as there are recommended machining positions.
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| Q43 | Is there a cover for the drive opening? |
| A43 | 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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| Q44 | Are there any precautions to take when using them in conjunction with each other? |
| A44 | Please note that basic capacity x number of linked units does not equal basic capacity when linked. Also, if the ZCA is arranged in a straight line from the drive source to ZCA1 and ZCA2, make sure that the allowable input shaft torque of the ZCA is equal to or less than the torque required by the drive source. For details, please refer to the "technical data /Selection" section in the catalog.
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| Q45 | Can you handle strokes other than those listed in the catalog model list? |
| A45 | 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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| Q46 | Is there enough stroke? |
| A46 | 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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| Q47 | Can the storage section be changed to steel? |
| A47 | Modifications are possible, but there are restrictions on structure and functionality. Please contact us.
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| Q48 | Can it be used in a clean room? |
| A48 | Not clean room compatible. The following are the types of services we can provide: - Bellows included (clean bellows also available) - Specified grease application specifications *Similar to special grease, the lifespan will be reduced. Increase the frequency of lubrication cycles beyond those specified in the catalog.
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| Q49 | Can the resin material of the storage compartment be changed? |
| A49 | 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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| Q50 | Will a chain break if it buckles? |
| A50 | 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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| Q51 | I would like to see the actual product. Do you have any samples? |
| A51 | Manual samples are available, please contact us.
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| Q52 | Are there any precautions to take when installing it by hanging? |
| A52 | When using the product in a suspended state, we may issue a safety confirmation form (confirming safety and intended use) in advance and ask you to fill it out and return it. Be sure to install a safety device in case the chain breaks. In addition, install safety fences and never enter under hanging objects.
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| Q53 | Can the chain come off? |
| A53 | 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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| Q54 | When I unwind the chain, End fitting may twist a little. Is this ok? |
| A54 | 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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| Q55 | Can sensors etc. be attached to the ZCA? |
| A55 | Sensors etc. cannot be attached to the ZCA main unit. Please install the ZCA into the equipment you are using (please do so yourself).
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| Q56 | Does End fitting always have to be fixed to the driven side? |
| A56 | The basic capacity of each size is based on the condition that End fitting is fixed to the driven side. If the tip is fixed and rotated, the buckling load of Zip Chain will be reduced to about half, just like general buckling theory. As a result, there will be restrictions on the load that can be used, so please contact us for details.
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| Q57 | Are there any restrictions on the installation direction? |
| A57 | It can be installed in any direction, including horizontal, vertical, or hanging. However, when installing horizontally or hanging, if the ZCA's own weight and the weight (force) of the transported object are applied to the installation bolts themselves, the equipment may be damaged. Use an installation method that does not support the load on the mounting bolts.
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| Q58 | Can it be used outdoors? |
| A58 | 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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| Q59 | What is the maximum operating temperature? |
| A59 | 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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| Q60 | Why is there a discontinuity in the sealing material on the mating surface of the storage section? |
| A60 | 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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| Q61 | Why does a quote need to be provided for a hanging installation? |
| A61 | 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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| Q62 | Can I attach a handle? |
| A62 | 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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| Q63 | Is the base capacity the same as the load it can hold? |
| A63 | ZCA has the same basic capacity and the load it can hold when stationary.
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| Q64 | 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? |
| A64 | Regardless of whether there is a load or not, ZCA requires torque even when there is no load, due to bearing friction and chain sliding. If the ratio of this average no-load operating torque is large compared to the torque required for lifting (approximately 25%), the effect of this torque may become large at startup, etc., and operation may not be smooth. In that case, when selecting the required input torque, multiply the no-load operating torque by 1.5 to select the required drive source.
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| Q65 | It takes a surprising amount of force to pull out the chain (it's heavy), but is this a problem? |
| A65 | 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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| Q66 | What is the relationship between the input shaft rotation direction and the chain extension direction? |
| A66 | The basic input shaft rotates clockwise (CW) towards the shaft, causing the chain to rise, and counterclockwise (CCW) causing the chain to fall. When the input shaft is in the reverse direction, it will rise when turned counterclockwise (CCW) towards the shaft and fall when turned clockwise (CW). Also, if a motor is included, the direction of motor output rotation will differ depending on the selected chain speed. Please refer to the catalog and Instruction Manuals and check the wiring, rotation direction, and chain movement before installing the device. Please be careful as there is a risk of injury or damage to the equipment due to differences in rotation direction.
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| Q67 | Can I use the chain by stopping it at the end? |
| A67 | 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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| Q68 | Can it stop at multiple points? |
| A68 | 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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| Q69 | What is the relationship between allowable input shaft torque and basic capacity? |
| A69 | The allowable input shaft torque is the maximum torque that can be input to the input shaft of the ZCA. This value was calculated from the force required when accelerating the basic capacity at 0.35G. The torque calculation is based on the assumption that the force acts at the radius of the sprocket PCD.
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| Q70 | When installing the chain case horizontally (Y), does its performance differ if it is installed vertically or horizontally? |
| A70 | The basic performance is the same whether the chain case is installed vertically or horizontally (Y). However, when only the chain is pulled out from the main body, the amount of deflection is slightly greater when the chain is installed vertically. Once the guide is installed, either installation will be the same.
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| Q71 | Why does the rated thrust decrease for Long travel length in each size? |
| A71 | The allowable buckling load of Zip Chain limits the rated thrust for Long travel length.
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| Q72 | How do I request a certificate of non-applicability? |
| A72 | Please ask your point of purchase for a certificate of non-applicability.
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| Q73 | How much stroke extension can be provided? |
| A73 | This varies depending on the conditions of use, so please contact us for details.
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