BCHN Ball Transfer Unit | Lock Nut Flange Mount | 304 Stainless Steel | JDF
The BCHN Series Ball Transfer Unit is a lock nut flange mounted omnidirectional load-bearing unit with a 440C stainless steel main ball and 304 stainless steel body. The main ball is surrounded by multiple sub-balls, creating a small friction coefficient that allows workpieces to be transported with minimal force in any 360° direction. The lock nut and flange design enables height adjustment and quick replacement, making it suitable for conveyor systems, assembly lines, and material handling applications where frequent maintenance or height adjustment is required.
How to select the right BCHN unit:
Determine the weight of the heaviest item to be moved.
Estimate the minimum number of units that will bear the load at any moment (typically 3-4 for flat loads).
Divide the total load by the minimum supporting units to get the nominal load per unit.
Apply a safety factor: divide the rated capacity by 2 for steady handling, or by 3 for shock/impact or continuous duty.
Calculate the maximum spacing between units: divide the shortest edge of the load by 2.5.
Select the model whose rated capacity exceeds the required per-unit load after applying the safety factor.
Example: For a 150 kg load supported by 4 units, the nominal load per unit is 37.5 kg. With a safety factor of 2, the required rated capacity is 75 kg (approx. 735 N). BCHN25 (343 N) or BCHN31 (412 N) may be suitable depending on the actual number of supporting units.
Installation Notes:
Lock nut flange type: secure the unit to the mounting surface using the lock nut. The lock nut allows for height adjustment and easy removal without special tools.
Ensure the mounting surface is clean and flat. Do not strike the main ball directly during installation.
The lock nut should be tightened securely to prevent loosening under vibration.
Working temperature range: -20°C to +70°C (standard type). Max speed: 1 m/s for steel ball types.
For clean room applications, BCHNJ (Polyacetal Ball) is available.
Technical Specifications Table
| Model | O.D. D1 (mm) | L1 (mm) | H (mm) | Thread M | L (mm) | d (mm) | Allowable Load N (kgf) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BCHN12 | 12 | 1.5 | 6.5 | 6 | 15 | 5.56 | 41 (4.2) |
| BCHN16 | 16 | 2.5 | 9.5 | 6 | 15 | 8.73 | 55 (5.6) |
| BCHN19 | 19 | 3.5 | 11.5 | 8 | 20 | 10.32 | 62 (6.3) |
| BCHN25 | 25 | 5.3 | 14.7 | 8 | 20 | 15.87 | 343 (35) |
| BCHN31 | 31 | 6.3 | 18.7 | 10 | 25 | 19.05 | 412 (42) |
Typical Applications
The BCHN Series Ball Transfer Unit is widely used in the following applications:
Conveyor Systems & Transfer Points: Direction changes at conveyor curves or intersections, with lock nut design for height adjustment
Assembly Lines & Workstations: Multi-directional transfer and positioning of workpieces between stations
Packaging & Inspection Stations: Free movement of workpieces on packaging or inspection tables
Mold Handling & Changing: 360° movement and positioning of molds on mold change carts
Logistics & Warehousing Equipment: Low-friction movement of heavy loads on transfer tables or storage racks
FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between BCHN and BCHF?
A: BCHN uses a lock nut and flange for mounting, allowing height adjustment via the lock nut, making it suitable for applications requiring frequent adjustment or maintenance. BCHF uses a flange plate with lock nut at a fixed height. Choose BCHN when height adjustment after installation is needed.
Q2: What models are available in the BCHN series?
A: The BCHN series includes five standard models: BCHN12, BCHN16, BCHN19, BCHN25, and BCHN31. The model number corresponds to the outer diameter, ranging from 12mm to 31mm. Ball diameter and load capacity increase with model size, from 41N (BCHN12) to 412N (BCHN31).
Q3: Can BCHN units be used in wet or corrosive environments?
A: Yes. The 304 stainless steel body and 440C stainless steel main ball provide good corrosion resistance, making BCHN units suitable for food processing, pharmaceutical, and outdoor applications.
Q4: How do I install a BCHN unit?
A: BCHN units are lock nut flange mounted. Place the unit into the mounting hole, align the flange with the mounting surface, and secure it by tightening the lock nut. The lock nut allows height adjustment and easy removal for maintenance.
Q5: What is the operating temperature range and maximum speed?
A: The standard type operates from -20°C to +70°C with a maximum speed of 1 m/s. For clean room applications, BCHNJ (Polyacetal Ball) is available.
