Roller chains mostly see use in drive trains but are also commonly found in conveyors. Roller chains are a simple, reliable and effective form of power transmission. The model, dimensions, tensile strength and interchangeability of roller chains are determined by the standard that is used. The most widely used standards are the European British Standard (BS), using the ISO 606 and DIN 8187 standards, and the American ANSI standard (ASA), using the ISO 606, ANSI B29.1 and DIN 8188 standards.
The most important dimension of a roller chain is its pitch. The pitch of a roller chain is usually measured in fractions of an inch. When using the British standard, chain pitch is measured in sixteenths of an inch. For example, the pitch of an ISO number 08B chain is eight sixteenths of an inch, or half an inch. If there is a dash and a number following the first three digits, such as in 16B-1, the added number indicates how many rows the chain has. In this case, the 16B-1 chain is the most common type: a single-row chain, more commonly known as a simplex chain (16/16”, or 1”, with one row).
When using the American standard, the pitch of the chain is usually measured in eights of an inch in accordance with the ANSI standard. The first digit of the ANSI number indicates the chain’s pitch in eights of an inch, the second indicates the type of chain (0 = roller chain) and the last digit indicates the number of rows. For example, ANSI 40-2: The 4 indicates the chain has a pitch of 4/8”, the 0 indicates it is a roller chain, and the 2 indicates it is a two-row chain, more commonly known as a duplex chain. ANSI chains may also be referenced using the European system, in which case an ANSI 80-1 chain would be reported as 16A-1.
British standard roller chains use a larger-diameter pin than American standard roller chains. Because of this, British standard chains have slightly better wear resistance. ANSI chains are also available in heavy versions with thicker side plates. Double capacity options are also available.
We also offer various brackets for roller chains.
To achieve good functionality and durability, it is extremely important that the chains are joined correctly and that they are regularly inspected and maintained.
