SPECIALISTS in the design and manufacture of screen, transmission and materials handling products, 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 cast 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. “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.
