All the
'Need-to-Know' Details
about Roller Chain


 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "ring coining" and what is its purpose?
Slip fit connecting links are usually 20% weaker than the rest of the chain. The Tsubaki patented "ring coining" compresses the material around the connecting link holes. This makes the connecting link as strong as the rest of the chain.
What is an offset link and what is its purpose?
An offset link can shorten or lengthen a strand of chain by one pitch. It is recommended not to use them in heavy loaded, high speed, or shock load applications. Due to their design, one pitch offset links are 35% weaker than the chain itself. Two pitch offset links are as strong as the base chain.
Does a chain really "stretch"?
The term "stretch" is misleading. A chain will elongate when the pins and bushings wear down. This is due to poor lubrication, under sizing and overloading of the chain. As the components thin, the space between the pins and bushings increase, thus making the chain longer than originally.
What is the allowable elongation of roller chain?
For transmission chain, there is almost no risk of fatigue failure when wear elongation is less than or equal to 1.5 percent. For conveyor chain, wear elongation should not exceed 2.0 percent.
What are the critical measurements on roller chain?
The three measurements to determine the size of a chain are roller diameter, inside width of the roller link, and the pitch. Pin diameter and sideplate thickness are both important measurements for determining allowable load capabilities.
Can I use a single pitch sprocket with double pitch chain?
When the single pitch sprocket has 30 teeth or greater, it is generally safe to use double pitch chain. The risk of the chain not coming off the sprocket properly increases below 30 teeth, and can cause the chain to wrap around the sprocket.
What lubrication should be used in special applications?
For high or low temperature environments, outdoor exposure, food safe and/or dusty environments, please consult Tsubaki to assist you in the smoothest solution for your installation. Tsubaki standard lubrication is suited for high performance applications within a temperature range from -10° to +60°C.