Advantages of roller chain drives
High efficiency
Up to 0,98 with a properly lubricated chain under normal circumstances and with a drive working under full load..
Long wear life
15000 operating hours if the correct drive was selected and with appropriate maintenance.
Extensive power and speed range
P up to 225 kW with simplex roller chain p = 76,2 mm
Power diagram for roller chains according to ISO 606 see page 120 ff
Long shaft distance
The shaft distance (usually between 30 times and 50 times the pitch) has no fixed measurements. It can easily be adjusted by shortening or lengthening of the chain, even after completed assembly, in order to meet altered construction requirements.
No slip
In contrast to friction-locked drives chain drives have no slip. In motor vehicles, camshaft drives with chains guarantee exact valve timing.
High load capacity
For the permissible bearing pressure with recommended lubrication
Elastic properties
Roller chain drives have a high elasticity, because of the plate material and the lubrication layer between rollers, pins and bushings.
Versatile applications
Roller chains are mainly used as drive elements for power transmission or as load chains; equipped with special links they can also be used for transportation and conveyance purposes. One chain is able to simultaneously drive several shafts with the same or opposite rotational direction at the same or at different speeds. It can also be employed as a rack and pinion assembly (lantern gears).
Cost effectiveness
Roller chains do not need to be pre-tensioned. Therefore there are only minor bearing loads. Space-saving construction, simple mounting, low service and maintenance costs make chain drives very economical.
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