Drive chain

Drive chains are also called roller chains.
A mechanical element that transmits power from a motor or other source of power as tension to a driven shaft via a gear-like rotating element called a sprocket.
It consists of 5 parts: inner plate, outer plate, pin, bush and roller, and is generally used in low-speed, high-load power transmission and lifting drives.
Features include: large reduction ratio, high flexibility in the distance between shafts, both sides can be used for multi-axis shaft transmission, etc., and can be used in a variety of situations thanks to its long service life, high strength and corrosion-resistant series.

Features of roller chain transmission

  • ・Large reduction ratio (Usually up to 1:7 )
  • ・Chains can be used with long shaft center distances (normally up to 4m). By changing the number of links, it is possible to freely adjust the shaft center distance.
  • ・The chain can be used on both sides and drive multiple shafts at the same time.
  • ・Easy installation and replacement. (Easy to cut and connect chains )
  • ・If the distance between shafts is short and the chain is guided, it can be driven vertically.
  • ・The sprocket diameter of a chain drive could be smaller than a belt sprocket while transmitting the same torque.
  • ・Transmitting power by meshing many teeth results in less wear of sprocket teeth than gears.
  • ・Chain drives have greater shock absorption than gear drives.

Construction

Drive Chain (Roller Chain) structure diagram

■Basic 3 dimensions of chain

The pitch, roller diameter, and inner width of the inner link are considered the basic three dimensions of a roller chain. When these dimensions are identical, a roller chain and sprocket are dimensionally compatible.

※1 Slip fit

When the shafts (pins and bushes) and holes are fitted together, there is always a loose fit.

This is a fit where the range of hole tolerance is larger than the range of shaft (pin or bushing) tolerance.

※2 Press fit

When the shafts (pins and bushes) and holes are fitted together, there is always an interference fit.

This is a fit where the range of hole tolerance is smaller than the range of shaft (pin or bush) tolerance.

See more about components and their roles

Plate

The plate bears the tension acting on the roller chain during transmission . Usually this is a repetitive load, but sometimes it is accompanied by shock. Therefore, the plate must have not only great static tensile strength, but also must be dynamically

Pin

The pin is subject to shearing and bending forces through the plate. At the same time, it configures a bearing part, together with the bush, when the roller chain articulates and engages the sprocket. Therefore, the pin needs high shear/bending strength

Bush

The bush is subject to complex forces via all parts, especially from the repetition of shock loads when the chain engages the sprocket. Therefore, the bush needs extremely high shock fatigue strength. In addition, the bush acts as a bearing coupled with

Roller

The roller is subject to a repeated shock load as it strikes the sprocket teeth during roller chain engagement with the sprocket. After engagement, the equilibrium position of the roller-sprocket engagement changes according to the tension . It is held b

Inner link

The two bushes are press fitted into two inner plates, and rollers are inserted to allow rotation around the outside of the bush. This is the same for single-strand and multi-strand chain.

Outer link and middle plate

The outer link consists of two pins that have been press fitted into two outer plates. For multistrand roller chain, a middle plate is added to the outer link. Slip fitting is used for the middle plate of standard RS Roller Chain (*1) and press fitting f

See more about connecting parts

Roller Chains are usually made up of a number of connected links in an endless formation, or used by fixing the chain ends, but connecting links are necessary (dedicated connecting links for hanging applications). Although offset links can be used when t

Connecting link


[Click to enlarge ]
Chain type Connecting link type Pin-connecting plate fitting Connecting plate fastening Notes
RS roller chain M-type connecting link
Code: JL
Slip fit
(M)
Spring clip
Cotter pin
Spring pin
For multistrand connecting links, assemble on the outermost RC-processed (Note 3) connecting plate.
The operating speed is indicated by the white areas in the kW ratings table.
F-type connecting link
Code: FJL
Press fit
(F)
Spring clip
Cotter pin
Spring pin
T-pin
Always use in specified applications and within the speed range colored in the kW ratings table.
If a F-type connecting link is needed, make sure to specify that when ordering.
Lambda chain M-type connecting link
Code: JL
Slip fit
(M)
Spring clip
Cotter pin
Can be used in all areas of the kW ratings table for Lambda Chain.
Connecting plates are RC processed.
Super chain M-type connecting link
Code: MJL
Slip fit
(M)
Spring pin Connecting plates are RC-processed.
F-type connecting link
Code: FJL
Press fit
(F)
Spring pin Use in extreme conditions such as large shocks, very large loads, and possible side forces.
Super-H chain
Ultra Super chain
F-type connecting link
Code: JL
Press fit
(F)
Spring pin Use connecting links exclusively for each chain.
RS-HT chain M-type connecting link
Code: MJL
Slip fit
(M)
Cotter pin
Spring pin
Connecting plates are RC-processed.
Use connecting links exclusively for Heavy Duty Chain
F-type connecting link
Code: JL
Press fit
(F)
Cotter pin
Spring pin
Use connecting links exclusively for Heavy Duty Chain
Other roller chains in catalog M-type connecting link
Code: JL
Slip fit
(M)
Cotter pin
Spring clip
Spring pin
T-pin
Z-pin
See the dimensional drawings for each chain. Only NP, NEP, SNS chains use RC-processed connecting plates.
Note)  
1.  The connecting plate fastening methods for each chain size are shown in the dimension tables and table notes.
2.  Only F-type connecting plates for RS Roller Chain and RS-HT Roller Chain marked with * have black appearance.
3.  Ring Coin (RC) Processing:
This Tsubaki original processing adds an area of plastic deformation around pin holes to generate residual stress around the holes. Even with slip fitting, there is no reduction in strength and can be used with the same stre

Ring coin processing

Offset link


[Click to enlarge ]
Note)
1.  Refer to the dimensional tables for roller chain types and sizes applicable for offset links.
2.  The kW ratings and maximum allowable tension of offset links can be reduced compared to the chain itself.

Drive Chain Product Line-up

You can choose the most suitable chain from our extensive lineup depending on the atmosphere of use.

This chain can be used in various environments.

Stainless steel series with excellent corrosion resistance, coating series with enhanced rust prevention while utilizing strength of steel materials, and other environment resistant drive chains made from noise type, engineering plastic and special materials are available.

Stainless steel series

Roller chain made from stainless steel. Provides even greater corrosion resistance than RS Roller Chain or RS Surface Treated Roller Chain.
Tsubaki offers four standard stainless steel chain types to meet any application.
Stainless steel generally offers superb resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and heat.
Tsubaki offers the following line-up of products taking advantage of stainless steel's features. These chains are used in a wide range of industries, especially the food industry.

Package SS Series HS Series AS Series NS Series
Material
  • ・18-8SUS, SUS304 equivalent
    ※Clips are 17-7 stainless steel
  • ・Pins, bushes, and rollers :13Cr Stainless Steel
  • ・Plate :18-8SUS, SUS304 equivalent
  • ・Clip :17-7 stainless steel
  • ・Pins and rollers :precipitation hardened stainless steel
  • ・Plates and bushes :18-8SUS, SUS304 equivalent
  • ・Clip :17-7 stainless steel
  • ・18-12 stainless steel
    ※Clips are 17-7 stainless steel
Features
  • ・Offers better corrosion resistance than steel or plated chains underwater or in contact with acids, alkalis, etc.
  • ・Usable in both low and high temperature ranges (-20ºC to 400ºC)
  • ・Longer life than SS series.
  • ・Max. allowable load :1.8x that of SS Series
  • ・Corrosion resistance :Less than SS Series
  • ・Usable in -20ºC to 150ºC
  • ・Corrosion resistance :Less than SS Series
  • ・Usable in both low and high temperature ranges (-20ºC to 400ºC)
  • ・Better corrosion resistance than SS Series
  • ・Nonmagnetic (clip is magnetic)

Stainless steel drive chain SS Series

Model No.  RS□□-SS~

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Roller Chain using 18-8 stainless steel.

  • ・Strong corrosion resistance thanks to 18-8 stainless steel
  • ・Can be used in water or in acidic, alkali, or other corrosive environments,
  • ・Usable in low and high temperature ranges (-20℃~400℃)
Size

RS11-SS~RS240-SS

Stainless steel drive chain HS Series

Model No.  RS□□-HS~

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Chain made of 13Cr stainless steel for pins, bushes and rollers.

  • ・Longer life than SS series. (In-house test results )
  • ・1.8x the maximum allowable load of SS Series.
  • ・Slightly less corrosion resistance than the SS Series.
  • ・Operating Temperature Range :-20℃~150℃
Size

RS40-HS~RS80-HS

Stainless steel drive chain NS Series

Model No.  RS□□-NS~

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Use in situations requiring greater corrosion resistance than SS Series.

  • ・Uses 18-12 stainless steel for better corrosion resistance than SS Series.
  • ・Uses in harsh operating conditions.
  • ・Usable in low and high temperature ranges (-20℃~400℃)
Size

RS25-NS~RS80-NS

Stainless steel drive chain AS Series

Model No.  RS□□-AS~

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Please consider replacing with SS series.
Click here for details

  • ・Uses precipitation hardened heat treated stainless steel for the pins and rollers
  • ・Slightly less corrosion resistance than the SS Series.
  • ・Usable in low and high temperature ranges (-20℃~400℃)
Size

RS40-AS~RS80-AS

Surface treated drive chain

RS Roller Chain with a special surface treatment.
While stainless steel roller chain has excellent corrosion resistance, its strength (maximum allowable load) is only 1/8 that of steel chain.
For applications requiring corrosion resistance and the same strength of steel chain, Tsubaki recommends Surface Treated Roller Chains.
(However, Surface Treated Roller Chains have less corrosion resistance than stainless steel chain. )

Features/Series steel NP Series NEP Series
Color Dark gray Light silver Light silver
Strength Comparison 100 85 100
Corrosion resistance Low High
Pros All purpose, low cost Attractive appearance, light corrosion resistance Corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, non-chrome and environmentally friendly (RoHS compliant)
Cons Not suitable where corrosion resistance is needed Slightly lower strength than steel chain Limited line-up

※Approx. strength comparison with steel chain as 100.


Surface treated drive chain NP Series

Model No.  RS□□-NP~

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Plated with nickel for an attractive appearance.

  • ・Features nickel plating on an RS Roller Chain for a beautiful finish.
  • ・Since it has light corrosion resistance, it can be used in an atmosphere where water droplets splash.
    However, be advised when selecting that NP Series has 15% lower maximum allowable load than RS Roller Chain.
Size

RS25-NP~RS120-NP

Surface treated drive chain NEP Series

Model No.  RS□□-NEP~

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With a special surface treatment and top coat.

  • ・RS Roller Chain with a special surface treatment and top coat.
  • ・Excellent environmental corrosion resistance such as salt water resistance, weather resistance, and chemical resistance while maintaining the strength of RS Roller Chain.
  • ・With no harmful chromium. RoHS compliant
Size

RS35-NEP~RS160-NEP

Surface treated drive chain APP Series

Model No.  RS□□-APP~

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Protects pins from pitting corrosion that occurs outdoors and on the shore.

  • ・Uses a special surface coating on the pin that does not lower its strength for protection against pitting corrosion, which leads to fatigue breakage.
  • ・Ideal for coastal and other environments where corrosion tends to be promoted.
  • ・APP Series chain features the same tensile strength and allowable load as RS Roller Chain
  • ・The special pin surface treatment uses no harmful hexavalent chromium.
Size

RS80-APP~RS240-APP

Other Corrosion Resistant Roller Chains

In addition to stainless steel and coating specifications, we offer a lineup of drive chains that accommodate a variety of usage environments.

Titanium chain

Model No.  RS□□-TI~

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Titanium RS Roller Chain

  • ・Made of titanium for no magnetism and excellent corrosion resistance.
  • ・Usable in contact with strong acid, strong alkalis, etc.
  • ・Ideal for use in applications requiring no magnetism.
  • ・Usable in an extremely wide range of temperatures (-20ºC to 400ºC).
Size

RS35-TI , RS40-TI

Cold resistant roller chain

Model No.  RS□□-KT~

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Capable of use in colder environments than RS Roller Chain

  • ・Operating temperature range is -40℃ to 60℃, and it is suitable when the same maximum allowable load as that of a general-use drive chain is required.
  • ・Usable down to -60ºC depending on temperature selection.
  • ・Ideal for use in low temperature atmosphere such as cold regions, freezing and cold storage warehouses.
  • ・Ring Coining* has been adopted for M-type connecting link that can be easily attached and removed, making it equivalent in strength to the base chain.
  • *Tsubaki's original processing
Size

RS35-KT~RS160-KT

Low-noise chain

Model No.  RS□□-SNS~

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Easing impact noise between chain and sprocket

  • ・Special shaped roller that absorbs impact reduces the noise between chain and sprocket
  • ・6-8dB lower noise levels compared to RS Roller Chain.
  • ・Reduces factory noise and contributes to an improved work environment.
  • ・Dimensionally compatible with standard RS Roller Chain.
  • ・RS standard sprocket can be used.
Size

RS40-SNS~RS80-SNS

Poly-steel chain

Model No.  RS□□-PC~

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Chain with engineering plastic inner link

  • ・Uses 18-8 stainless steel for the pins and outer plates and engineering plastic (white) for the inner links.
  • ・Requires no lubrication for safe use in food equipment and other clean operating environments.
  • ・5dB quieter than standard RS Roller Chain, and 50% lighter.
Size

RS25-PC~RS60-PC

Poly-steel chain Super chemical resistance

Model No.  RS□□-PCSY~

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Better corrosion resistance than PC Series (standard series)

  • ・Uses titanium for the pins and outer links, and special engineering plastic for the inner links, for better corrosion resistance than PC Series (standard series).
  • ・Be advised when selecting that the maximum allowable load is 60% that of PC Series chain.
  • ・Operating temperature range is -20℃ to 80℃
Size

RS40-PCSY~RS60-PCSY

Curved stainless steel chain

Model No.  RS□□-CUSS~

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Sideflexing Stainless Steel Chain

  • ・Roller chain with a unique pin-bush construction and wider clearance between plates for large lateral bending.
  • ・Offers the same corrosion resistance as SS Series stainless steel roller chain. (Material 18-8 stainless steel )
  • ・RS type sprockets can be used.
Size

RS40-CUSS~RS80-CUSS