General Roller Chain Drive Selection Guidelines

GENERAL ROLLER CHAIN DRIVE SELECTION GUIDELINES 

Several different chain and sprocket combinations usually can be found for a particular application. It is good practice to make two or three alternative selections and then make a final selection based on cost, space, and weight constraints, required fife, or other important factors. 

The chain normally should be the weakest component in a ehain drive because the chain usually is the least costly component to replace. Be careful not to seleet a chain and sprocket combination with too much capacity. The more expensive bearings and shafting may then become the weakest components in the drive. 

The smallest pitch, single-strand chain that will transmit the required power at the specified speed usually is the best selection. Higher speed generally requires a smaller pitch chain. 

FIGURE 5-1 Typical drives with single- and multiple-strand roller chains. 

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GENERAL ROLLER CHAIN DRIVE SELECTION GUIDELINES... 

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