How to Select the Chain Drive

Author : ROSIE

Update time : 2023-09-04 11:45:00

Choosing the right chain drive for an application can become somewhat difficult due to the variety of forms and functions of the various chain designs. The proper way to make this selection is to eliminate unsuitable options by evaluating the application and function of the chain. This will help to narrow down the viable options before making a final selection. The most important factors in chain drive selection are listed below:

Load

Chain speed

Shaft layout

Distance between shafts

Service environment

Lubrication

Load

The most important question to focus on when selecting the right chain drive for your application is how much power needs to be transmitted? The chain must be able to handle the power generated by the prime mover.

The safety of the crew and the chain drive system depends on the correctness of the calculations at this stage. It is recommended to work with a sufficient safety margin.

Chain speed

Not all chain drives can handle high speed applications. Some chain drives are designed for low speeds. Specifications can be obtained by calculating and ensuring that the speed is within the recommended range. This evaluation will greatly reduce the number of designs available for this application.

Shaft Layout

Most chain drives will not work with non-parallel shafts. If the shafts are not perfectly aligned, the designer may have to use a gear drive as an alternative.

Distance Between Shafts

It is recommended that the center distance between shafts be in the range of 30-50 times the chain pitch. The designer must also ensure that a minimum contact arc of 120 degrees is obtained on smaller sprockets. If the sprocket has fewer teeth, at least five teeth must be in contact with the chain at any given moment.

Service Environment

The service environment will determine the expected resistance of the chain drive to moisture, dirt, abrasives, corrosion and high temperatures. It will also affect other parameters such as vibration, noise levels and fatigue strength. For example, in areas where noise is a concern, the designer may choose to use a reverse tooth chain.

Lubrication

Most chain drives require lubrication to achieve satisfactory wear life. Chain type, size, load and operating speed will determine the need and extent of lubrication. Depending on the application, the designer may prefer manual, drip, oil bath or forced supply lubrication.

Some chains are self-lubricating and do not require any external lubrication throughout their service life. These chains use bushings made of oil-impregnated sintered plastic or metal to provide uninterrupted lubrication during operation.

Advantages of chain drives

Ability to transmit torque over long distances

In contrast to belt drives, chain drives do not slip

Chain drives are more compact than belt drives and can be adapted to relatively small spaces.

Multiple axes can be driven by a single chain drive

Versatile drive that can operate at high temperatures and in a variety of service environments (dry, wet, abrasive, corrosive, etc.)

It is a low-friction system that guarantees high mechanical efficiency

Disadvantages of chain drives

Non-parallel shafts cannot be used

Chain drives are known to be very noisy and can also cause vibrations

Misalignment may cause the chain to slip

Some designs require continuous lubrication