Roller
Chain Components
Plate
The
plate is the component that bears the tension placed on the chain. Usually this
is a repeated loading, sometimes accompanied by shock. Therefore, the plate must
have not only great static tensile strength, but also must hold up to the
dynamic forces of load and shock. Furthermore, the plate must meet environmental
resistance requirements (for example, corrosion, abrasion,
etc.).
Pin
The
pin is subject to shearing and bending forces transmitted by the plate. At the
same time, it forms a load-bearing part, together with the bushing, when the
chain flexes during sprocket engagement. Therefore, the pin needs high tensile
and shear strength, resistance to bending, and also must have sufficient
endurance against shock and wear.
Bushing
The
bushing is subject to shearing and bending stresses transmitted by the plate and
roller, and also gets shock loads when the chain engages the
sprocket.
In
addition, when the chain articulates, the inner surface forms a load-bearing
part together with the pin. The outer surface also forms a load-bearing part
with the roller's inner surface when the roller rotates on the rail or engages
the sprocket. Therefore, it must have great tensile strength against shearing
and be resistant to dynamic shock and wear.
Roller
The
roller is subject to impact load as it strikes the sprocket teeth during the
chain engagement with the sprocket. After engagement, the roller changes its
point of contact and balance. It is held between the sprocket teeth and bushing,
and moves on the tooth face while receiving a compression
load.
Furthermore,
the roller's inner surface constitutes a bearing part together with the
bushing's outer surface when the roller rotates on the rail. Therefore, it must
be resistant to wear and still have strength against shock, fatigue, and
compression.
Cotter
Pin, Spring Clip, T-Pin
These
are the parts that prevent the outer plate from falling off the pin at the point
of connection. They may wear out during high-speed operation, therefore, for
this application, these parts require heat
treatment.
Configration
Simplex, Duplex & Triplex variations are common. Upto Decaplex (10 Strands) are available.