FAQs Roller Measurement-Tube

FAQs Part 3: Measuring the Conveyor Tube

To Begin: Please fill out our Conveyor Roller Quote Form and a Heinrich Brothers representative will contact you.
For more immediate help, call us at 724-969-1188.

How do I Measure Tube Outer Diameter (OD)?

You must use Calipers to measure the diameter of the tube. Measure to the nearest .00″. For larger tubes, place the neck of the calipers close to the axle with the forks swung at an angle out over the tube as shown.

How do I Measure Conveyor Tube Length?

Use the tape measure to obtain the tube length. Measure to the nearest 1/32″. Be sure not to include the width of the bearing flange. Tube length is not a critical dimension for rollers with bearings that fit directly into the tube. In this case, the OAC and the bearing extension will dictate the tube length. The tube length is a critical dimension with bosses or welded axles.

If the bearing is unflanged and the tube extends past the body of the bearing, then the bearing is recessed into the tube. In this case the OAC and the tube length can be used to determine exactly how far the bearings are recessed.

How do I Measure Tube Wall Thickness?

If the bearing is in the tube, the wall thickness cannot be measured.
If the bearing has been removed or is missing, use the forks of the calipers to measure the tube wall thickness. Measure to the nearest .001″. This will measure the bored (drilled out) tube wall thickness if the tube has been bored.
If the roller can be cut open, the forks of the calipers can be used to measure the thickness of the tube.

How do I Determine Tube Material?

Steel Conveyor Rollers: Use a magnet on the tube to identify if the material is steel. If the tube is magnetic it is steel. High quality 420 Stainless Steel can sometimes have magnetic properties but this is not a common stainless steel grade tubing used for rollers.
Stainless Steel Conveyor Rollers: Stainless Steel has a bright,silver,usually smooth finish. Most stainless tube will have a weld seam.
Aluminum Conveyor Rollers: Aluminum has a dull, gray appearance. Aluminum tends to have a very fine, longitudinal lines that run the length of the tube. Aluminum is lightweight and soft compared to other metal materials.
Galvanized Steel Conveyor Rollers: Galvanized steel is steel tube coated with a thin layer of zinc coating giving it a shiny appearance. Galvanized steel has a scaly or textured look to it.
Plastic Conveyor Rollers: Plastic is becoming more common in the last for years. It will not rust,but does not have the longevity of steel. PVC,UHMW, or Acetal is often used to make a plastic conveyor roller.