Lubricating apparatus for conveyor chains

In a chain system including a moving chain having links arranged in two distinct spaced apart rows which are parallel and extend longitudinally of the chain, and cross pieces extending transversely of the chain and connecting successive links in the rows, all of the cross pieces being parallel and each of the rows being continuous so that no gaps exist between adjacent links of the rows, the chain having a tendency to move laterally as it moves in the normal longitudinal direction of chain advancement;

• an improved chain lubricating apparatus comprising:
• an anchor past which the chain moves;
• a chain follower bearing against the cross pieces on the chain and confined in the lateral direction by the links so that when the chain moves laterally the follower moves laterally with it;
• restraining means connecting the follower with the anchor for restraining the follower and thereby preventing it from moving in the direction of chain advancement, the restraining means permitting the follower to move laterally with respect to the anchor so that the follower will follow lateral movement of the chain;
• at least one lubricant nozzle carried by the follower and directed toward the chain;
• a source of lubricant;
• and delivery means between the source of lubricant and the nozzle for forcing lubricant out of said at least one lubricant nozzle and onto the chain, whereby the lubricant will be deposited at the correct lateral location on the chain notwithstanding lateral movement of the chain.