A table top conveyor (also called a tabletop chain conveyor or flat-top chain conveyor) is a modular chain-based conveying system made of interlocking flat plates or tabs that form a continuous, stable conveying surface. These systems are designed to move discrete packages and containers while maintaining product orientation and enabling smooth transfers, curves, and accumulation. Table top conveyors are commonly used where precision, repeatable handling, and compact layouts are required.
The conveying surface on a table top conveyor is formed by linked plates (tabs) that may be molded plastic (e.g., POM/Acetal) or metal (stainless steel) depending on the application. Plastic chains offer low friction and easy replacement of damaged links; stainless steel table top chain is used where high temperatures, chemical exposure, or stringent sanitary requirements demand metal construction. Modular chain construction allows quick lane-oriented repairs and multi-lane configurations.
To reduce wear and noise and to ensure smooth transfers, wear strips (often UHMW or similar plastics) are mounted in the frame where the chain slides. A robust open frame — steel or stainless — provides support while enabling quick cleaning and maintenance. Properly specified wear strips and frame mounting significantly extend chain life and improve transfer performance.
Typical drives use sprockets that engage the chain and power the run. Depending on layout, a single common drive can power multiple lanes; in complex multi-lane or long layouts, multiple drives or gearboxes may be used to maintain torque and speed consistency. Table top conveyors can run straight, around curves, and through short-radius turns thanks to the modular chain design and side-flex/curved chain variants.
Adjustable guide rails keep items aligned on the conveying surface and are essential for product stability during transfers, accumulation, and orientation operations. Guide rails should be easily adjustable for quick changeovers between product sizes.
For deeper technical insights, refer to our dedicated Table Top Conveyor FAQs resource.
Table top conveyors are widely used across industries that handle discrete packaged goods and require precise control:
Bottles, jars, cans, trays, and pouches where sanitary design is often required.
Vials, blister packs, syringes in cleanroom-sensitive lines (stainless or FDA plastics recommended).
Small bottles and tubes that need stable, oriented transport.
Cartons, pouches, and light assemblies where curves and compact layouts are beneficial.
Flat surface reduces tipping and rotation.
Curves, merges, and multi-lane configurations permit compact factory footprints.
Damaged links or tabs are replaceable without replacing entire belts.
Stainless frames and FDA plastics for washdown environments.
With zoned control, table top chains provide gentle queuing for packaging lines.
When evaluating table top conveyor options, review these technical parameters to ensure fit for purpose:
Choose a table top conveyor when you need precise product control, the ability to route items through curves, or a compact layout that minimizes transfer points. If your process relies on long, straight runs for mixed product types with heavy abrasive items, consider mat top or flat belt alternatives instead — they may offer longer life with certain loads and travel distances. Use table top for high-speed, oriented, and accumulation-sensitive lines.
For detailed specifications, available chain widths, and sanitary options, visit Dillin’s main Table Top Conveyor Systems page or contact Dillin’s engineering team to discuss integration with your line and to request a datasheet or CAD layout.
If you’d like an engineer’s assessment, layout recommendations, or a custom quote, Dillin’s applications team can review your product dimensions, throughput targets, and plant layout to specify the exact table top conveyor configuration for your project. Contact Dillin at 419-969-6063 or use the contact form on the product page.
