Chain & Sprockets

About chain & sprockets

Chain and sprockets transmit mechanical power efficiently through a positive engagement, making them suitable for applications requiring precise timing or high torque transfer. The primary types are roller chain and conveyor chain. Roller chains, standardized by ANSI (e.g., ANSI B29.1) and ISO, consist of alternating inner and outer links with rollers that engage sprocket teeth. Common series include standard single-strand (e.g., #40, #50, #60), multi-strand for higher power, and heavy series for increased fatigue resistance. Conveyor chains are designed for material handling, often featuring larger pitches, specialized attachments, and sometimes hollow pins for custom fixtures. Sprockets are toothed wheels that mesh with the chain; key selection parameters include pitch diameter, number of teeth, and bore configuration (e.g., plain bore, finished bore with keyway and setscrew, Taper-Lock). Connecting links (master links) are used to join chain ends, available in spring clip or cottered styles. Critical dimensions for chain include pitch, roller diameter, and width between inner plates. Sprocket dimensions include pitch, number of teeth, and hub diameter. Materials typically range from carbon steel (e.g., 1045, 4140) for general use, to stainless steel (e.g., 304, 316) for corrosive environments, and sometimes nickel-plated or zinc-plated steel for enhanced corrosion resistance.