RUD TECDOS chain drive technology enables the precise and reliable movement of 35-tonne movable roof sections in a demanding bulk handling environment. Designed for durability in dusty conditions, the system ensures smooth operation and improved efficiency at a European port facility.

Bulk material handling requires more than just storage space. Operators must ensure easy access for loading and unloading while protecting stored materials from weather. A project at the Enns port precinct in Europe demonstrates how engineered chain drive technology can help. By incorporating an automated sliding roof system powered by RUD TECDOS chain drive technology, the handling hall at Danubia Speicherei provides operational flexibility while maintaining durability in demanding industrial conditions.

A Storage Facility Designed for Efficient Material Handling

The handling hall, operational for over a year, was designed for loose bulk goods such as animal feed. Strategically located with road, rail, and waterway access, the facility serves as a key logistics hub. It includes three reinforced concrete storage bays, each approximately 33 metres long, 10 metres wide and over 12 metres high.

Above each bay is a movable roof section measuring 33 x 10 metres. Unlike conventional roofs, these open and close automatically, allowing loading from above using cranes. Each roof weighs about 35 tonnes and can be controlled independently via a wireless remote, enabling separate access to all bays and improving operational flexibility.

Engineering the Movable Roof Concept

From the planning stage, Danubia Speicherei saw the advantages of a movable roof. The roof’s size and weight made design more complex than conventional buildings. They partnered with an engineering specialist experienced in lifting and mechanical handling technology, responsible for the drive system, control technology and mechanical integration. The company worked closely with RUD Germany to deliver a reliable drive solution for heavy loads.

TECDOS Chain Drive Technology for Heavy Loads

The roof system is powered by the RUD TECDOS Pi-Gamma Drive System, a compact chain drive solution for demanding industrial applications. Each roof section uses four drive units working together for smooth operation.

The Pi-Gamma system combines a fixed 180-degree chain deflection (Pi configuration) and a variable deflection between 90 and 180 degrees (Gamma configuration), allowing efficient operation in horizontal and vertical applications. The system uses a high strength round steel chain on a specially designed drive shaft, minimising mechanical forces while ensuring reliable power transmission. The TECDOS chain drive system is suitable for heavy industrial applications, including bulk handling infrastructure and large mechanical installations.

Each storage bay uses a 33m long round steel chain (TEC12), supported by rollers at two metre intervals to ensure smooth movement and reduce sagging.

Built for Harsh Bulk Handling Environments

Bulk storage environments pose challenges for mechanical equipment due to high dust levels. Chain drive technology was selected for its reliability in such conditions. Heavy duty chains resist dust contamination and require minimal maintenance. The system is also durable and corrosion resistant, suitable for outdoor exposure.

The Pi-Gamma system is compact, with TEC12 drive units having a pitch circle diameter of 82.3 millimetres and weighing around 12 kilograms, yet capable of moving extremely heavy loads.

Managing Wind and Weather Conditions

At over 12 metres tall, the roof structures are subject to wind forces. Engineers designed the system to withstand pressures up to 120 N/m². Roof sections can be mechanically locked during adverse weather. Narrow roof gaps prevent water entry, protecting stored materials. Snowfall can add up to 15 tonnes per roof, but the drive system can move loads of approximately 50 tonnes horizontally, ensuring reliable year round operation.

Designed with Future Expansion in Mind

Danubia Speicherei operates multiple facilities in the Enns port precinct. The new hall allows expansion by duplicating the layout, effectively doubling storage capacity while maintaining performance and efficiency using the same movable roof concept and chain drive technology.

Engineered Drive Solutions for Industrial Infrastructure

The Enns port installation highlights how modern drive technology supports large scale industrial infrastructure. By combining robust mechanical design with compact high performance chain drives, TECDOS Pi-Gamma systems provide reliable motion control for heavy structural components. For bulk handling facilities, ports and logistics operations, RUD’s engineered solutions deliver durability, flexibility and efficiency.

RUD offers reliable conveying and hoisting equipment for industrial applications. Click here for a complete overview of our Conveyor Systems and Hoist Chains. 

This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. Some pictures are used for illustration only.