Product Info Drive chain
Drive chains are also called roller chains.
Drive chains are mechanical elements that transmit the power of a motor or other driver as tension to a driven shaft via gear-like rotating elements called sprockets.
It consists of five parts: an inner plate, an outer plate, a pin, a bushing, and a roller, and is generally used for low-speed, heavy-load power transmission and hanging drives.
It has excellent features such as a large reduction ratio, high flexibility in shaft distance, and double-sided use for multi-axis shaft transmission. It also has long life, high strength, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for use in a variety of situations.
table of contents
Drive chain Related Information
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Selection
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Materials
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Operation
Drive chain transmission features
- ・A large reduction ratio can be achieved (generally up to 1:7).
- ・Long shaft distances (usually 4m or less) are possible. Another feature is the high degree of freedom in shaft distance.
- - Both sides of the chain can be used, allowing for multi-axis shaft transmission.
- - Easy to install and replace (easy to cut and connect)
- - If the chain is supported with a short shaft distance, it can be driven even if the shaft is vertical.
- - Compared to belt drive, the sprocket diameter can be smaller for the same torque.
- - Since force is transmitted through a large number of teeth, wear on the sprocket teeth is more advantageous than with gears.
- - It has a higher shock absorption capacity than gears.
Structure
■The three basic dimensions of chains
Pitch, roller diameter, and Inner link width are called the three basic dimensions of a roller chain. When these dimensions are the same, the roller chain and sprocket are dimensionally compatible.
*1 slip fit
When a shaft and a hole are fitted together, there is always a gap.
A fit in which the tolerance area of the hole is entirely above the tolerance area of the shaft (pin or bush).
*2 press fit
A fit that always creates an interference when the shaft and hole are combined.
A fit in which the tolerance range of the hole is completely below the tolerance range of the shaft (pin or bush).
Learn more about the components and their functions
Plate
Plates are members that bear the tension applied to the roller chain during power transmission. This tension is usually a repeated load, but can sometimes be accompanied by impact. Therefore, plates are required to have not only static tensile strength, but also high fatigue strength, impact strength, and dynamic toughness.
Pin
The pins are subjected to shear and bending forces through the plate, and at the same time, when the roller chain bends and meshes with the sprocket, they form the bearing together with the bushing. Therefore, they need to have shear strength, bending strength, toughness, and wear resistance.
Bush
The bushing receives complex forces through various parts, but in particular, when it engages with the sprocket, it receives repeated impact loads through the rollers, so it must have high impact fatigue strength.In addition, it must be wear-resistant because it acts as a bearing when mated with the pin.
Roller
When the roller chain engages with the sprocket, the roller is subjected to repeated impact loads due to collisions with the front teeth. In addition, after engaging, the equilibrium position of engagement with the teeth changes depending on the magnitude of tension, so the roller moves along the tooth surface while being pinched between the teeth and the bushing, and is subjected to compressive loads and frictional forces. Therefore, impact fatigue strength, compressive strength, and abrasion resistance are required.
Note: RS11-SS, 15, 25, and 35 do not come with rollers.
Inner link
Two bushings are press fit fitted into two inner plates, and rollers are fitted to the outside of the bushings so that they can rotate. The same design is used for both single- and multiple-strand chains.
Outer link and intermediate plate
outer link has two pins press fit into two outer plates. In the case of multiple strand roller chain, an intermediate plate is added to outer link. The intermediate plate of RS roller chain is slip fit (*1), while that of Super chain is press fit (*2).
Learn more about connecting parts
Roller chains are usually made up of many connected links and are used either as endless chains or with the ends fixed, but in either case a connecting link is required (and special connecting links are used for hanging applications, etc.). Also, if a roller chain has an odd number of links, offset links can be used, but it is best to design it with an even number of links whenever possible.
Connecting Link
[Click to enlarge]
| Chain Type | Connecting link name | Between pin and connecting link plate |
Connecting link plate Fastening method |
Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RS roller chain | M-type connecting link Model: JL |
slip fit (M) |
spring clip pin Cotter pin Spring pin |
For multiple strand connecting links, install connecting link plate with RC processing (Note 3) on the outermost side. The operating speed is within the range indicated by the white area on kW ratings table. |
| F-type connecting link* Model: FJL |
press fit (F) |
spring clip Cotter pin Spring pin T-pin |
Be sure to use the product for the specified purpose and within the speed ranges indicated in the colored sections of kW ratings table. If you require an F-type connecting link, please be sure to specify this when ordering. |
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| Lambda Chain | M-type connecting link Model: JL |
slip fit (M) |
spring clip Cotter pin |
Can be used across the entire range of Lambda Chain kW ratings table. connecting link plate is RC processed. |
| Super chain | M-type connecting link Model: MJL |
slip fit (M) |
Spring pin | connecting link plate is RC processed. |
| F-type connecting link Model: FJL |
press fit (F) |
Spring pin | Use in harsh conditions such as transmissions with large impacts, especially transmissions with large loads or where side forces may be applied. | |
| Super-H chain Ultra Super chain |
F-type connecting link Model: JL |
press fit (F) |
Spring pin | Please use the dedicated connecting links for each chain. |
| RS-HT chain | M-type connecting link Model: MJL |
slip fit (M) |
Split pin Spring pin |
connecting link plate is RC processed. Use the special connecting links for RS-HT chain. |
| F-type connecting link* Model: JL |
press fit (F) |
Split pin Spring pin |
Use the special connecting links for RS-HT chain. | |
| Catalogue description Other roller chains |
M-type connecting link Model: JL |
slip fit (M) |
Cotter pins and spring clip Spring pin T-pins and Z-pins |
Please refer to the dimension diagram for each chain. Please note that only NP, NEP and SNS chains have RC processed connecting link plate. |
| Note) | |
| 1. | connecting link plate fastening style for each chain size is as shown in the dimension drawings and respective notes. |
| 2. | *Only the F-type connecting link plate for RS roller chain and RS-HT chain have a black exterior color. |
| 3. | ring coin (RC) processing is a unique Tsubaki process that creates a plastically deformed area along the pin hole in the connecting link plate, with the aim of generating residual stress around the hole.Even with slip fit, there is no reduction in strength and the chain can be used with the same strength as the main chain. |
ring coin processing
Offset Link
[Click to enlarge]
| Note) | |
| 1. | Please refer to the dimension drawing for the types and sizes of roller chains that can be used with offset links. |
| 2. | The transmission capacity and maximum allowable load of offset links may be lower than that of the main chain. |
Drive chain product list
- General-purpose Drive chain
- Lube-free Drive chain
- Heavy duty drive chain
- Environmentally resistant Drive chain
- Miniature Drive chain
(Miniature roller chain) - Special Chain
- Drive Chain Accessories
Depending on the environment in which you will be using it, you can choose the most suitable chain from our extensive lineup.
This chain can be used in a variety of environments.
We offer a wide range of drive chains, including a stainless steel series with excellent corrosion resistance, a coated series that utilizes the strength of steel while enhancing rust prevention, low-noise types, engineering plastics, and other environmentally resistant Drive chain made from special materials.
Stainless Steel Series
This is a roller chain made of stainless steel, which has better corrosion resistance than RS roller chain and RS coated chains.
Four types of specifications are standardized to suit different applications.
Stainless steel is generally a material with excellent corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, and heat resistance.
We offer the following varieties that take advantage of the advantages of stainless steel, and they are used in a variety of industries and applications, primarily in the food industry.
| Specification | SS Series | HS Series | AS Series | NS Series |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material |
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| Features |
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Stainless Drive chain SS Series
Model number RS□□-SS～
This roller chain is made of 18-8 stainless steel.
- - Made of 18-8 stainless steel, it has high corrosion resistance.
- -Suitable for corrosive environments such as underwater, acidic and alkaline environments.
- ・Can be used in special low and high temperature environments (-20℃ to 400℃).
size
RS11-SS～RS240-SS
Stainless Drive chain HS Series
Model number RS□□-HS～
This chain uses 13Cr stainless steel for the pins, bushings and rollers.
- -Longer life than SS Series (based on our test results).
- -Has Maximum allowable load that is 1.8 times that of SS Series.
- - Corrosion resistance is slightly lower than that of SS Series.
- ・使用温度範囲：-20℃～150℃
size
RS40-HS～RS80-HS
Stainless Drive chain NS Series
Model number RS□□-NS～
Suitable when greater corrosion resistance than SS Series is required.
- - By using 18-12 stainless steel as the material, it has higher corrosion resistance than SS Series.
- - Can be used in harsh environments.
- ・Can be used in special low and high temperature environments (-20℃ to 400℃).
size
RS25-NS～RS80-NS
Stainless Drive chain AS Series
Model number RS□□-AS～
Please consider replacing it with SS Series.
Learn more
- - Precipitation hardening stainless steel is used for the pins and rollers, and is hardened by heat treatment.
- - Corrosion resistance is slightly lower than that of SS Series.
- ・Can be used in special low and high temperature environments (-20℃ to 400℃).
size
RS40-AS～RS80-AS
Surface treated drive chain
This is an RS roller chain with a surface treatment.
Stainless steel Drive chain have excellent corrosion resistance, but their strength (Maximum allowable load) is less than 1/8 that of steel chains.
We recommend using coated chains for applications that require corrosion resistance and strength comparable to that of steel chains.
(However, it is less corrosion resistant than a stainless steel Drive chain.)
| Features/Specifications | steel | NP Series | NEP Series NEPTUNE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance color | Dark Gray | Light Silver | Light gray |
| strength ratio | 100 | 85 | 100 |
| Corrosion resistance | low High |
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| Strong Points | Versatile and inexpensive | Beautiful appearance, mild corrosion resistance | Corrosion resistant, chemical resistant, and chromium-free Environmentally friendly (RoHS compliant) |
| Cons | Not suitable for applications requiring corrosion resistance | Compared to steel chains, Slightly reduced strength |
Supported varieties are limited |
*Strength ratio is an approximate value with steel chain at 100
Surface treated drive chain NP Series
Model number RS□□-NP～
Nickel-plated chain with a beautiful appearance
- -RS roller chain is nickel plated for a beautiful appearance.
- - It has mild corrosion resistance, so it can be used in environments where it is exposed to water droplets.
However, please note that Maximum allowable load is approximately 15% lower than that of RS roller chain.
size
RS25-NP～RS120-NP
Surface treated drive chain NEP Series
Model number RS□□-NEP～
Coated with special coat and top coat
- RS roller chain is coated with a special coating and top coat.
- ・While maintaining the strength of RS roller chain, it offers excellent corrosion resistance in saltwater, weather, chemicals, and other environmental conditions.
- - Does not contain harmful chromium and complies with the RoHS directive.
size
RS35-NEP～RS160-NEP
Surface treated drive chain APP Series
Model number RS□□-APP~
Protects pins from pitting corrosion that occurs outdoors or in coastal areas
- - The pins are given a special surface treatment that does not reduce their strength and protects them from pitting corrosion, which is the starting point for fatigue failure.
- - Ideal for environments where corrosion is likely to accelerate, such as coastal areas.
- - The tensile strength and allowable tension of APP Series chains are the same as those of standard steel RS roller chain.
- - The special surface treatment does not use harmful hexavalent chromium.
size
RS80-APP～RS240-APP
Other environment-resistant Drive chain
In addition to stainless steel and coated specifications, we also offer a lineup of Drive chain suitable for a variety of usage environments.
Titanium Chain
Model number RS□□-TI～
Titanium RS roller chain
- - This chain is made of titanium, which is non-magnetic and highly corrosion resistant.
- -Can be used in environments where strong acids or strong alkalis are present.
- -It is not magnetic, so it can be used in applications where non-magnetic properties are required.
- -Can be used over a very wide temperature range, from -20°C to 400°C.
size
RS35-TI , RS40-TI
Cold resistant roller chain
Model number RS□□-KT～
Can be used at lower temperatures than RS roller chain
- - The operating temperature is -40°C to 60°C, and it is suitable when Maximum allowable load equivalent to that of a general-purpose Drive chain is required.
- - Can be used down to -60°C depending on temperature selection.
- - Ideal for use in cold regions and low temperature environments such as freezers and refrigerated warehouses.
- - Ring coin processing* is used on the M-shaped connecting link, which makes it easy to attach and detach, making it as strong as the main chain.
- *Tsubaki's unique processing
size
RS35-KT～RS160-KT
Low-noise chain
Model number RS□□-SNS~
Reduces the noise of chain and sprocket collisions
- - Specially shaped rollers absorb shock and reduce the noise of engagement with the sprocket.
- - Achieves 6 to 8 dB noise reduction compared to RS roller chain.
- - It reduces noise levels within the factory and helps improve the working environment.
- - Dimensionally compatible with standard RS roller chain.
- -RS standard sprockets can be used.
size
RS40-SNS～RS80-SNS
Poly-steel chain
Model number RS□□-PC～
Chain with Inner link made of engineering plastic
- - The outer plate and pin are made of 18-8 stainless steel, and Inner link is made of engineering plastic (white).
- -Since no lubricating is required, it can be used safely even in clean environments such as food processing machinery.
- -Compared to RS standard roller chains, it achieves -5dB noise reduction and is 50% lighter.
size
RS25-PC～RS60-PC
Poly-steel chain Super chemical resistance
Model number RS□□-PCSY～
Higher corrosion resistance than PC (general-purpose) specifications
- - By using titanium for the pins and outer plates and a special engineering plastic for Inner link, it has higher corrosion resistance than PC (general-purpose) specifications.
- -Maximum allowable load is 60% of that of the PC Poly-steel chain, so please take this into consideration when selecting.
- - The operating temperature range is -20℃ to 80℃.
size
RS40-PCSY～RS60-PCSY
Curved Stainless Steel Chain
Model number RS□□-CUSS～
Stainless steel chain that bends widely in the lateral direction
- ・This roller chain can bend significantly sideways due to the unique pin and bushing structure and large clearance between plates.
- - Corrosion resistance equivalent to that of stainless Drive chain SS Series. (Material: 18-8 stainless steel)
- -RS type sprockets can be used.
size
RS40-CUSS～RS80-CUSS
