Advanced tensioning solutions for industrial applications

OST-Africa has developed an advanced range of tensioning elements, designed to meet the demands of mechanical power transmission – including maintaining correct tension on chains and belts – which is essential for efficient, reliable and long-lasting operation.

The company’s tensioning system incorporates arms, idler sprockets, chain riders and rollers, all built with powder metal or cast iron housings, fitted with heavy-duty casted arms that house rubber inserts. These components provide progressive, self-adjusting tensioning, absorbing vibration and shock loads, while maintaining consistent pressure in demanding operating conditions.

“Correct chain and belt tensioning is fundamental to system reliability. Our units are engineered to deliver maintenance-free operation, reducing downtime, while extending the service life of belts, chains, bearings and drive shafts. By addressing vibration, noise and shock loading, our tensioners protect both equipment and operators,” explains Chantelle Scheepers, Marketing Manager of OST-Africa, specialists in the design and manufacture of screen, transmission and materials handling products. “OST tensioners are suitable for safe and efficient use in a wide range of equipment. In conveyor belt scrapers, the self-adjusting design maintains continuous belt contact, improving cleaning efficiency and reducing material build-up that can damage belts.

“In cold storage plants, the low-temperature operating range prevents premature hardening of tensioning elements. In food processing facilities, Stainless Steel tensioners ensure compliance with stringent hygiene standards, while maintaining reliable tensioning. Our system ensures fewer production stoppages, reduced maintenance intervals and greater overall system availability.

“To meet growing market demand, we have expanded our TE series tensioners to provide targeted solutions for specific applications in many sectors, including mining, materials handling, food processing, manufacturing and general industry.”

The standard TE and TE-F models, with front-mount options, are designed for general use, particularly where installation requires additional flexibility, The TE-G unit is galvanised for outdoor or oily environments and uses an oil-resistant rubber mix to operate reliably between –30°C and 90°C.

The TE-W version, with a working range between 80°C and 120°C, is manufactured for safe use in high-temperature conditions and is marked with a white dot for easy identification.

Other models in the range have been developed to meet specialist needs. The TE-B unit is suited to long-length chain drives and can withstand operating temperature ranges from – 40°C to + 80°C. The TE-S4 tensioner is produced in Stainless Steel for food and pharmaceutical industries, combining corrosion resistance with food-safe materials. All TE models are supplied with zinc-plated mounting screws and locking washers to simplify installation and ensure secure fitting.

Housings extend from powder metal to cast iron, with investment cast or welded steel arms, providing durability under load. Larger sizes are available for heavy-duty applications, giving operators a choice of tensioning capacity tailored to specific system requirements.

Complementary products have been designed to enhance performance of the TE series. OST idler sprockets – available for chain sizes from 06B1 to 24B3 – incorporate double-sealed, self-lubricating bearings. Chain riders, produced from high-strength polymers, provide low friction, water resistance and reduced noise in low-speed applications.

Belt tensioning rollers are manufactured in nylon and aluminium, with self-lubricating bearings and an operating range from – 35°C to + 100°C. Mounting brackets and safety sockets are available to support installation and secure positioning.

By combining a robust design, adaptive performance and low-maintenance operation, OST-Africa’s tensioning elements deliver high efficiency in many industries, from freezing storage facilities to high-temperature processing plants.

OST-Africa’s locally manufactured materials handling, screen and transmission products conform with ISO 9001 quality management standards, ensuring consistent performance across its range.

These products are supported by specialised design and installation teams, which ensure custom-built systems provide a reliable solution for improved uptime, safety compliance and extended service life of equipment.