A Chain-On-Edge (COE) Conveyor is a precision material handling system that transports parts using vertical spindles mounted to a horizontal roller chain. Commonly used in industrial coating, finishing, and assembly lines, COE conveyors provide exceptional part control, smooth motion, and flexible system layouts. Unlike traditional flat belt or overhead conveyors, a Chain-On-Edge system operates in a single horizontal plane and gives you the ability to rotate, index, or fix each part during processing.
At Precision Conveyor Technologies, we specialize in custom-engineered Chain-On-Edge conveyor systems designed to meet the needs of high-performance, high-throughput environments. Our solutions handle everything from small, lightweight components to large, heavy-duty parts, delivering precision motion and reliable performance where it matters most.
General Description of Chain-On-Edge (COE) Operation
In a COE conveyor, parts are mounted to vertical spindles that are evenly spaced along a moving chain. As the chain advances, it carries the spindles—and the parts attached to them—through various process zones such as pre-treatment, spraying, curing, or inspection.
The chain runs in a single-level horizontal loop, guided by sprockets and track sections that allow for continuous or indexing motion. Each spindle serves as an attachment point, providing a stable platform for rotating or fixed-orientation part handling throughout the process.
What Sets Our Chain-On-Edge Conveyor Design Apart
Precision Conveyor’s COE systems incorporate key design advantages:
Self-Cleaning Wheels
Low-friction, self-cleaning wheel assemblies minimize resistance and reduce maintenance.Upper Spindle Bearings
Each spindle includes an upper bearing to ensure wobble-free operation—critical for coating consistency.Enclosed Track
The chain, wheels, and spindles are fully enclosed for safety, cleanliness, and long-term durability in harsh environments.
Available Spindle Types
We offer several spindle configurations to suit different applications:
Fixed Orientation Spindles
Ideal for parts that must remain in a specific position throughout the process.Driven Spindles
Using sprockets or timing belts, these spindles rotate during travel, allowing for full 360° coating or finishing.Detented Spindles
These lock into specific increments (e.g., 90° or 180°), enabling precise indexing to expose multiple sides of a part or rack during processing.
All spindle types are designed for easy interchangeability and are available in configurations tailored to your workflow and part geometry.
Why Choose a Chain-On-Edge Conveyor
COE conveyors are ideal for coating, painting, pre-treatment, adhesive application, and assembly operations. They integrate well with ovens, spray booths, and robotic automation systems, offering:
Compact layouts and tight turning radii
Controlled part presentation
Compatibility with a wide range of part sizes and weights
Proven performance in industrial environments
Get Expert Guidance
Not sure what spindle type or layout you need? Our engineering team can help you specify the right Chain-On-Edge conveyor for your application—from conceptual layout to production integration.
Let's build your system.
