If you're in the market for a pallet wrapping machine, you’ve likely come across different types of turntable drive systems. The three most common methods are chain drive, belt drive, and gear drive. While all have their pros and cons, there’s one that we strongly advise against—gear drive turntable wrappers. Here's why.
The Three Common Turntable Drive Systems
Chain Drive – The Reliable Workhorse
Chain-driven pallet wrappers have been around for a long time, and for good reason. They offer exceptional reliability and are rarely prone to breakage. However, there are some considerations:
- Chains do require occasional tightening as they stretch over time.
- They are subject to environmental elements, which can lead to rust if not maintained. Stainless steel chains aren’t a viable option since they stretch more than regular steel.
- The good news? Chains are cheap and readily available, making them an easy fix when needed.
Belt Drive – Smooth but Not for Heavy Loads
Belt-driven turntables operate similarly to chains but have some key differences:
- Like chains, belts stretch and need tightening over time.
- Being rubber-based, they are less prone to environmental damage than metal chains.
- Not ideal for heavy loads—belts don’t offer the same strength as a metal chain, making them less effective for industrial applications.
Gear Drive – Why We Strongly Dislike It
At first glance, gear-driven turntables might seem like a great idea. They use a series of gears to transfer motion from the motor to the turntable, which then rotates using a large gear around the edge. But in reality, they come with several significant downsides:
1. High Maintenance Costs
Unlike chains or belts, gears wear down much faster due to constant friction. Replacing them can be expensive, and specialized parts might not always be available on short notice.
2. Prone to Damage
- If even one gear chips or misaligns, the entire system can fail.
- Dirt, debris, and moisture can easily get stuck in the gears, leading to faster wear and performance issues.
3. Expensive and Difficult to Repair
- While chains and belts are easy to replace, gear drives require precise alignment and specialized repairs.
- Repairs often involve replacing multiple gears, which can cost significantly more than just swapping a belt or chain.
- A chain might cost $100-200 to replace and is easily sourced from almost anywhere. A large 700mm gear with a precise inner diameter, radius, and pitch? That’s a custom overseas order—expensive and hard to find.
- Gear drives are full metal, making them prone to rusting.
- Gears require their own shaft and bearings, increasing complexity and failure points.
4. Pallet Wrappers Typically Move or Wobble When Rotating
- Many companies don’t bolt their pallet wrappers down, have uneven surfaces, or deal with pallets that are not uniform in weight or positioning. This causes wobbling during rotation, leading to excessive gear wear.
- The added vibration is a major issue. Why do cars use belts over gear drives? Because belts absorb shock and vibration, while gears transfer vibration and shock—something you don’t want in a pallet wrapper.
5. Myths and Misconceptions About Gear Drives
- Some suppliers claim gear drives are more reliable because they won’t break if you hit an emergency stop, unlike belts. This is a myth.
- A belt isn’t locked like a chain or gear. In an overload situation, a V-belt will slip, absorbing the shock of an emergency stop. Gears, on the other hand, can suffer catastrophic failure under sudden force.
6. Not as Durable as You Think
Gear drives might seem sturdy, but they’re actually less forgiving when it comes to wear and tear. A stretched chain can be tightened; a worn-out gear usually needs full replacement.
Final Verdict – Stick to Chains or Belts
If you want a pallet wrapper that lasts, avoid gear-driven turntable wrappers. Instead, go with chain drive for heavy-duty applications or belt drive for lighter loads. Both options are easier to maintain, more cost-effective, and far less prone to catastrophic failures.
At MPS Packaging Australia, we offer reliable pallet wrapping solutions that use proven drive systems—no unnecessary complexity, just durable, efficient performance. Need help choosing the right machine? Contact us today!