Q&A  Drive chain

The following is a list of answers for frequently asked questions from our customers. Select questions to view the answers.

Words 

Drive chain

Q1 What are the features of Tsubaki's Stainless Steel Chain line-up?
Q2 What are the differences between NP and NEP Surface Treated Drive Chains?
Q3 What is Lambda Chain?
Q4 Can you make multi-strand Lambda Chain?
Q5 Can I lubricate my Lambda Chain?
Q6 What chains can be used at low temperatures?
Q7 What is the proper direction of installation for connecting link clips and cotter pins?
Q8 What kind of lubricant should I use for my chain?
Q9 What effect does grease have on lubricating roller chains for drive use?
Q10 What is a chain's wear life limit?
Q11 How much does a chain initially elongate?
Q12 When should I use a chain tensioner?
Q13 What can I do about chain noise?
Q14 Why is a stainless steel chain's maximum allowable load so low?
Q15 What causes sprocket uneven rotation, and how can I stop it?
Q16 How does a pin gear drive work?
Q17 How much elastic elongation do roller chain and Lambda Chain have?
Q18 How does a roller conveyor drive work, and what are its features?
Q19 What standards govern chain?
Q20 Are chains RoHS compliant?
Q21 What types of offset links (OL) are there and how do I order them?
Q22 Do I need to lubricate the connecting link (JL, OL, 2POL) when assembling it into the chain?
Q23 Did the name "roller chain" (drive chain) change in the past?
Q24 What is the difference between an F-type connecting link and an M-type connecting link?

Chain Accessories

Q25 What cautions are there when using a Tsubaki Chain Tensioner?
Q26 What is the relationship between a Chain Tensioner's displacement and pressing force?
Q27 Can an Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68) be installed facing up?
Q28 What is the food grade oil used in an Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68)?
Q29 Can an Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68) be switched on and off frequently?
Q30 Is there a way to measure chain wear elongation easily?
Q31 Can Tsubaki manufacture special end bolts?
Q32 Are there tools for easily disassembling chain?
Q33 What direction should the load on an end bolt be?
Q34 How do you align sprockets?
Answers
Q1 What are the features of Tsubaki's Stainless Steel Chain line-up?
A1

Stainless steel generally offers superior resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and heat. Tsubaki has made use of these features to create the chain line-up below. You will find them used in the food machinery industry and a wide range of other industries a

Package SS Series HS 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

・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

・Better corrosion resistance than SS Series

・Nonmagnetic (clip is magnetic)

*Tsubaki also offers a Poly Steel Chain, which uses plastic for the inner link and stainless steel for the outer link, for lube-free, lightweight, low noise operation.

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Q2 What are the differences between NP and NEP Surface Treated Drive Chains?
A2

Stainless steel drive chain offers superior corrosion resistance to steel drive chain, but its strength (maximum allowable load) is less than 1/8. In applications where superior corrosion resistance is needed but with the same strength as steel drive chai

  steel NP NEP
Color Dark gray Light silver Light silver
(Rollers are dark gray)
Strength Comparison 100 85 100
Corrosion resistance Poor Good
Pros All purpose, low cost Attractive appearance
Light corrosion resistance
Superior corrosion resistance and chrome free (RoHS compliant)
Cons Not ideal for applications requiring corrosion resistance Weaker than steel chains Available for a limited range of products
Main purpose(s) For general drive and hanging applications For office and specialty equipment where appearance is important For outdoor applications, port-related, etc.

*Rough comparison of strength, with 100 being steel chain.

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Q3 What is Lambda Chain?
A3

Lubrication is essential for minimizing chain wear elongation and extending chain life.
However, chain is often used without additional lubrication for the following reasons.


1. When oil spattering and work contamination needs to be avoided.
2. To maintain a clean work environment.
3. Where additional lubrication is in places difficult or impossible (for example, in high places).
4. When additional lubrication and


Lambda Chain (lube-free chain) with its long service life can solve the problems listed above. As shown in the figure on the left, Lambda Chain uses oil-impregnated sintered bearings for the bushes. Lambda Chain can be used without additional lubrication thanks to the oil impregnated into the holes (pores) of its porous sintered bushes. Lambda Chain has been used in many industrial fields and has contributed to reducing maintenance man-hours, improving work environments, and increasing productivity since its release in 1988.

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Q4 Can you make multi-strand Lambda Chain?
A4

Lambda Chain was only available in single strands when first launched. As we received more and more requests for double-strand Lambda, we finally made them available in our 2001 catalog. Be aware that their dimensions, kilowatt ratings, and maximum allowa

Comparison of Double Strand Chain
  Multi-strand coefficient
Coefficient multiplied to the kilowatt ratings and maximum allowable loads of single strand chain
Sprocket Dimensional Comparison
RS roller chain 1.7 Using double strand RS Roller Chain
Lambda chain (LMD) 1.4 Made-to-order
(Transverse pitch for double strand chain is different)
The inner plate thicknesses and chain outer widths differ.
Lambda chain
RS Double Strand
Compatible Series (LMDS)
1.7 Using double strand RS Roller Chain Sprockets for Double Strand RS Roller Chain can be used by replacing the middle plates.
Heavy duty Lambda chain (LMDH) 1.7 Made-to-order
(Transverse pitch for double strand chain is different)
The thickness of the middle and outer plates are one size thicker than with double strand Lambda Chain
RS Lambda attachment chain (LMC) 1.7 Using double strand RS Roller Chain Exterior dimensions are the same as with RS Roller Chain

*Triple strand or higher multi-strand Lambda Chains are not available due to performance issues.

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Q5 Can I lubricate my Lambda Chain?
A5

Lambda Chain is generally ideal for applications where additional lubrication is undesirable or impossible. You can expect longer life from RS Roller Chain if regular lubrication is possible, so in that situation we would recommend RS Roller Chain. (With

Lubricating Guide

Lubrication cycle

As there is already oil impregnated in the bushes, the interval for the first lubrication cycle is longer than with RS Roller Chain. (However, subsequent lubrication cycles are the same.) An effective lubrication period is before elongation rapidly increa

Lube type

Any mineral or synthetic oil is fine. Tsubaki recommends an extreme pressure type hydraulic oil or gear oil.

Viscosity

While viscosity differs depending on the usage conditions, generally viscosity should be around ISO VG68-220.


New Products

Tsubaki has created a long-life Lambda Chain (X-Lambda Chain) with even longer life than Lambda Chain.

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Q6 What chains can be used at low temperatures?
A6

When the chain is used at low temperature, such as in a freezer, problems such as 1. Reduction of impact strength due to low temperature brittleness, 2. Solidification of lubricant, and 3. Poor articulation due to frost and ice adhesion.
Tsubaki has a lineup of Cold resistant roller chain and Lambda chain cold resistant series. By changing the material and heat treatment from standard roller chain and Lambda chain, it can be used at low temperatures.
Before using Cold resistant roller chain, fill the inside of chain with cold resistant oil or cold resistant grease, and re-lube regularly.
Lambda chain cold resistant series can be used lube-free by adopting a special oil-impregnated bush.
Guideline for maximum allowable load at low temperatures for general-use drive chains and cold resistant roller chains is as follows.

  General use drive chain
(For RS80 and above )
Cold resistant roller chain
-10℃~ 60℃ catalog value catalog value
-20℃~-10℃ catalog value x 1/2 catalog value
-30℃~-20℃ catalog value x 1/3 catalog value
-40℃~-30℃ catalog value x 1/4 catalog value
-50℃~-40℃ Cannot be used catalog value x 2/3
-60℃~-50℃ catalog value x 1/2
-60℃ or less Cannot be used
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Q7 What is the proper direction of installation for connecting link clips and cotter pins?
A7



Small size roller chain (RS60 and smaller) uses a clip on the connecting link. The clip should be attached so that the head is facing forward in the direction of travel, as shown in the diagram on the left. Take care not to spread the clip prongs too wide



RS80-RS200, and small size roller chain in triple or multi-strand configurations, use a cotter pin on the connecting link. Insert the cotter pin from the outside and open the legs 60° as shown in the diagram on the left. Do not reuse cotter pins or use co

*Connecting links are attached differently depending on the chain model. Check the appropriate Tsubaki catalog for more information.

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Q8 What kind of lubricant should I use for my chain?
A8

Lubricant is absolutely essential for roller chain drive.
Insufficient lubrication can cause your chain to reach its service life extremely quickly, and can cause unexpected accidents. Take special care with your lubricant.
Below you will find the

(1) SAE Number
Lubrication method AI・AII・B C
-10℃~0℃ 0℃~40℃ 40℃~50℃ 50℃~60℃ -10℃~0℃ 0℃~40℃ 40℃~50℃ 50℃~60℃
Small pitch chains (RS50 or smaller) SAE10W SAE20 SAE30 SAE40 SAE10W SAE20 SAE30 SAE40
RS60・80 SAE20 SAE30 SAE40 SAE50
RS100 SAE20 SAE30 SAE40 SAE50
Large pitch chains (RS120 or smaller) SAE30 SAE40 SAE50

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Q9 What effect does grease have on lubricating roller chains for drive use?
A9

Chain wear develops between pins and bushes (leading to pitch elongation), bushes and rollers, outer and inner plates, and sprockets and rollers.
The gap between these is quite small (except for between sprockets and rollers), so a grease with a high viscosity will not be able to penetrate where it needs to, and the effects of lubricating will not be seen.
Use an oil with a viscosity of ISOVG32-220 (varying depending on usage temperature and chain size) for your chain.
(See "Q8. What kind of lubricant should I use for my chain" for oil types.)
Chains should be lubricated on the slack side between outer and inner plates and bushes and rollers to ensure that lubricant reaches the necessary spots.
When chains are used in hanging applications, grease can be used on sprockets and other non-articulating areas to prevent rust.

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Q10 What is a chain's wear life limit?
A10

(1)With RS Roller Chain

As the pins and bushes slide against each other when the chain articulates over the sprocket, the pin outer surface and bush inner surface will slowly start to wear. This leads to chain wear elongation. As chain wear elongation advances, the chain will ride up on the sprocket teeth and jump, making engagement impossible.

Chain elongation rate until sprocket jumping
The rate of chain elongation until the chain jumps varies with the number of sprocket teeth. The smaller the number of teeth, the larger the elongation rate calculated until chain jumping. However, as other problems such as increased vibration and a drop

 
Large sprocket number of teeth Chain usage limit (elongation rate)
Less than 60 teeth 1.5%
61~80 or less 1.2%
81~100 or less 1.0%
101~110 0.8%

(2)With Lambda Chain

Lambda Chain and X-Lambda Chain reach their wear life at 0.5% elongation. Unlike RS Roller Chain, because Lambda Chains are used without lubrication they need to be replaced when the oil in their oil-impregnated bushes is depleted, which happens at 0.5% e Calculating wear elongation
Chain elongation rate = (determined dimensions - standard length) / standard length x 100(%)
Standard length = Chain pitch x No. of links


 
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Q11 How much does a chain initially elongate?
A11

Once a chain starts operation, it will quickly stretch due to deviations during assembly and an initial running in period. This is called "initial elongation," and after this period elongation will proceed more gradually. While initial elongation is usual

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Q12 When should I use a chain tensioner?
A12

(1)Major usage examples

Excessive slack on the chain will cause chain vibration and noise, decrease the life of both chain and sprocket, cause chain jumping, and in some situations lead to unexpected problems. A chain tensioner is used to avoid these problems. If careful to avoi

Usage Examples Major Usages
Adjusting Slack Preventing Vibration Adjusting Tension Increasing the Winding Angle
1. When the center distance cannot be adjusted
2. When the center distance is short and slack is on top
3. When both shafts are positioned perpendicularly or close to it
4. When chain length is long due to multi-shaft transmission
5. When there is forward-reverse drive
6. When vibration is severe
7. When the center distance is long  ※1
※ 1:When the distance between shafts is over 50 times the chain pitch, or over 20 times the chain pitch if there is a pulsating load.

(2)Notes for use

1. Normally, a tensioner is positioned on the chain slack side. A tensioner is needed on both sides if there is frequent forward-reverse operation. In this situation, be careful of excessive loads on the tensioners. Contact a Tsubaki representative regarding

2. Positioning the tensioner closer to the sprockets than to the center of the span will result in large adjustments even with minor motion. Normally, the tensioner is positioned on the outside of the chain near the small sprocket, which lets it maintain the

3. Ensure there is no contact with the other side of the chain when the tensioner is pushing down on one side. Furthermore, chain pulsation can occur during operation, so ensure that there is adequate space between chains when adjusting the tensioner.

4. Ensure that the chain engages three or more teeth of the tensioner sprocket.

5. Tsubaki normally recommends that the tensioner sprocket has the same number of teeth as the small sprocket.

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Q13 What can I do about chain noise?
A13

There will always be noise when the chain engages the sprocket. This noise will come from the following places.


Noise from:

1. Impact noise from when the (chain) roller impacts the sprocket tooth root.
2. There is a gap between roller and bush -- the roller generates noise from elastic vibration.
3. Impact noise from outer and inner links.
4. Noise from sprocket vi


Prevention

A.Reduce the impact energy.

・Reduce the chain speed.

・Increase the sprocket number of teeth.

・Use a small size chain to reduce weight.

B.Alleviate issues in impact areas.

・Lubricate sprocket tooth roots and between chain parts (plates, pin-bush, bush-roller).

・Use an engineering plastic roller. (Kilowatt ratings will decrease.)

・Use a Low Noise Drive Chain with a spring roller. This can reduce noise levels by 6-8dB compared to (pre-lubed) RS Roller Chain. (in-house test comparison)

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Q14 Why is a stainless steel chain's maximum allowable load so low?
A14

Stainless steel chain has a maximum allowable load of only 1/8 that of steel chain. This is due to the difference in arriving at allowable loads as shown below.


RS Roller Chain (steel)
The maximum allowable load of RS Roller Chain is a value determined by fatigue limits. A load below this value will not cause fatigue breakage in RS Roller Chain, even if it is a repeat load. As long as the chain is used within


Stainless Steel Drive Chain (SS Series)
The maximum allowable load of Stainless Steel Drive Chain (SS Series) is a value determined by wear performance. (Parts are not heat treated, so they have a lower hardness level than RS Roller Chain parts and su


【For #60 chain 】
Chain Max. allowable load kN{kgf}
RS60-1 8.83{900}
RS60-SS-1 1.57{160}
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Q15 What causes sprocket uneven rotation, and how can I stop it?
A15

Chain speed fluctuations

First, we will talk about chain speed fluctuations, which are one cause of uneven rotation. A chain engages a sprocket in a polygonal fashion; therefore, when engaging a tangential site on a circle or a chordal site as shown below, the engagement height (radius from the center of the sprocket) will differ. This means that even if the drive sprocket is rotating at a uniform speed, there will be deviations in the radius ratio of the chain's speed in the direction of travel only. This rate of speed fluctuation can be calculated as follows.

Rate of speed fluctuation = (V2 - V1)/V2 = 1 - cos (180º/z) (where Z is the no. of teeth)

Increasing the number of teeth will create smooth rotation and smoother power transmission; therefore, Tsubaki normally recommends 15 or more teeth.

Uneven Rotation

Drive sprocket uneven rotation occur due to fluctuations in chain speed and sprocket quality. This is exacerbated by errors in sprocket shaft installation alignment and errors in sprocket manufacturing. Increasing the number of drive sprocket teeth will a

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Q16 How does a pin gear drive work?
A16

In order to rotate or linearly move something, a drive source (motor, etc.) generally acts through a reducer using a roller chain and gears.
Winding drive using a roller chain requires a lot of space, while gears require precision machining, which faces users with higher costs. A pin gear drive is ideal in these situations.
As diagram 1 shows, a pin gear drive uses an attachment chain for pin gears wrapped around a drum or table, and a sprocket with specially shaped teeth (pin gear sprocket) instead of a pinion gear.
As diagram 2 shows, during linear motion an attachment chain for pin gears is mounted in a straight line and used instead of a rack.

Item Pin gear drive Winding drive Gear drive
Limits on shaft spacing Provided None Provided
Teeth engaging Low High Low
Speed range comparison No limits Up to 1:7 No limits
Tooth profile Specially tooth profile Sprocket tooth profile Involute
Engagement Precision Normal Normal Precision

From the table above, we see that pin gear drives are ideal when
○ they are used on comparatively large reducers (1:5 or larger),
○rotational precision is not particularly necessary,
○ it will be used at low speeds (chain speed of less than 50m/

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Q17 How much elastic elongation do roller chain and Lambda Chain have?
A17

〇RS roller chain Single-strand

Use the following table as a standard guide

〇Lambda chain Single-strand

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Q18 How does a roller conveyor drive work, and what are its features?
A18

While a roller conveyor has one motor drive and one line shaft drive, we'll introduce three general drive methods using chain.
Once you understand the features of each, you will know which to use in your application.


(1)Parallel drive

○Method
Chains are wound about adjacent rollers. One shaft engages the next, which engages the next, and so on down the line. This is the most standard drive method.

○Pros
Chain replacement is easy
Wear elongation is larger in the part closer to the drive side, but it is possible to replace just that section only.

○Cons
Impossible to adjust slack from wear elongation. As slack increases, the chain will flap, increasing the tension acting on it and possibly causing it to ride up on the sprocket. A tensioner will be required when this situation.
Lubrication i


(2)Rack drive

○Method
A type of rack system where a chain is run linearly and a sprocket made to engage the chain. While use is limited to light loads, it is a simple system.

○Pros
Curved chain can be used for use around corners.
There are no articulating areas, so there is little chain wear.

○Cons
Not suited for high speeds or heavy loads.
Rollers can break easily.
A pin gear sprocket is needed in principle, which drives up costs.


(3)Cross chain drive

○Method
Two sprockets are attached to each roller shaft, with one fixed to the shaft and the other a bearing idler. Two strands of chains are crossed onto these sprockets. This method involves one chain driving every other roller.

○Pros
The load is supported by two strands of chain, allowing for smaller chain sizes and compact layouts.
Chain slack adjustment and chain lubrication can occur at the same one location.
Forward-reverse chain rotation not a problem.

○Cons
Can not replace only a portion of chain.
The winding angle may be insufficient depending on the installation spacing and sprocket number of teeth.
Requires a wide installation space.

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Q19 What standards govern chain?
A19

Chains are a machine element usable in a wide variety of applications. As they can ensure both performance and compatibility, they are governed by various international and national standards. Some of these standards are shown below. (As of January 2007.)

Chain Type Japan Industrial Standards International Standards American Standards
Roller Chain for drive
(incl. attachment chains)
JIS B 1801 ISO 606 ASME B 29.100
Bushed Chain for drive
(incl. attachment chains)
JIS B 1801 ISO 606 ASME B 29.100
Double Pitch Roller Chain
for drive and conveyance
JIS B 1803 ISO 1275 ASME B 29.100
Leaf chain JIS B 1804 ISO 4347 ANSI B 29.8M
Note: Items positioned as above do not necessarily have the same details.
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Q20 Are chains RoHS compliant?
A20

All Tsubaki drive and conveyor chains are RoHS compliant.

RoHS Directive:
An abbreviation of "Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment," it is a European directive that prevents the use of specified harmful substances in electrical and electronic equipment

Average concentration of hazardous substances prohibited by RoHS.
Lead 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Mercury 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Cadmium 100ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Hexavalent chromium 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB) 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE) 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Butyl Benzyl Phthalate (BBP) 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
Diisobutyl Phthalate (DIBP) 1,000ppm(0.1wt%) or less
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Q21 What types of offset links (OL) are there and how do I order them?
A21

An offset link is needed when a chain is formed with an odd number of links.
There are three types of offset links: 1 pitch offset links made of one link (OL), and 2 pitch offset links (2POL) and 4 pitch offset links (4POL) made of multiple links.


(1) Types of Offset Links (OL)

OL 2POL 4POL
Appropriate Drive
Chain
Series
Standard, lube-free, corrosion resistant General-purpose Super Chain
(single strand only)
Features Expect 35% less kilowatt ratings for RS40-RS240 compared to base chain (20% less for RS35), and a 35% drop in maximum allowable load kN{kgf}. Use according to the kilowatt ratings charts. Expect 10% less kilowatt ratings and maximum allowable load compared to base chain.

(2) Notes regarding 2POL and 4POL delivery.


Formation when using 9 links and a 2POL

●Example: Using MCJL & 2POL, in case of 9L length.
Base chain x 5L, MCJL x 2PC, 2POL x 1PC
Indicate no. of links and end link as +9L-MCJMCJ2O


Formation when using 11 links and a 4POL

●Example: Using FSJL & 4POL, in case of 11L length.
Base chain x 5L, FSJL x 2PC, 4POL x 1PC
Indicate no. of links and end link as +11L-FSJFSJ4O

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Q22 Do I need to lubricate the connecting link (JL, OL, 2POL) when assembling it into the chain?
A22

Except for situations where delivered assembled into the base chain, connecting links are coated with our normal light anti-rust agent only when shipped. This is due to the risk of decreasing connecting link handleability during cutting and connecting if


*Where to lubricate 2POL

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Q23 Did the name "roller chain" (drive chain) change in the past?
A23

We have not changed the majority of names describing roller chain sizes since 1966. However, we have added product names as we continue to expand our specifications and line-up. Please refer to the individual product in the respective Tsubaki catalog.

Although this item as the same shape as items then, the performance has improved vastly. Contact a Tsubaki representative for the then design materials or when replacing.

Changes to roller chain numbers
ISO chain number Until 1955 From 1955 to 1965 From 1966
04C RS25 RS25
06C RS35 RS35
085 RS39 RS41
08A RS40 RS40A RS40
10A RS48 RS48A RS50
12A RS56 RS56A RS60
16A RS66 RS66A RS80
20A RS87 RS87A RS100
24A RS96 RS96A RS120
32A RS106 RS106A RS140
36A RS116 RS116A RS160
40A RS125 RS125A RS200
48A RS240A RS240
In 1964, A Class chains (then considered heavy duty chain) became a standard Tsubaki product, so it was given an "A" in its chain number. From 1966 it was standardized with our current chain numbering.
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Q24 What is the difference between an F-type connecting link and an M-type connecting link?
A24

The difference is whether the pins and pin holes on the connecting plate have a loose (slip) fit or a tight (press) fit.


M-type connecting link = slip fit

F-type connecting link = press fit


・An M-type connecting link can be smoothly attached/removed for connection or maintenance.

・Use an F-type connecting link for hanging applications or when a thrust force may act on the chain.

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Q25 What cautions are there when using a Tsubaki Chain Tensioner?
A25

(1) When a chain pulsates, the backlash pushes in the tensioner rod, which slides between the tensioner and the chain. This promotes wear on the rods and on the chain side, so the area between these should be lubricated.


(2) Tensioners suffer severe damage in heavy dust or corrosive environments. Avoid using tensioners in these situations.


(3) Be aware that the tensioner may suffer serious damage when there is a thrust load on the tensioner in hanging drives or when there are extreme load fluctuations in forward-reverse operation.

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Q26 What is the relationship between a Chain Tensioner's displacement and pressing force?
A26

The Tsubaki Chain Tensioner main unit consists of two coil springs inside. The tensioner uses the elasticity of these coil springs to press an idler sprocket or plastic shoe on its end onto the chain to adjust slack. The following shows the idler sprocket


◆TCS Type (Swing type)


Acting pressing force F(kn)
Displacement (swing angle)  δ(°)
Gravitational acceleration G=9.80665 (m/s2)

○CT-TCS40, CT-TCS50
F= (0.26 x δ + 0.8) x G x 10-3
Pressing force range: 0 - 0.15(kn)

○CT-TCS60, CT-TCS80
F= (0.95 x δ + 1.5) x G x 10-3
Pressing force range: 0 - 0.39(kn)


◆ETS and TA Types (Linear type)


Acting pressing force F(kn)
Displacement (swing angle)  δ(°)
Gravitational acceleration G=9.80665 (m/s2)

○CT-ETS40, CT-ETS50, CT-TA40
F= (0.8 x δ + 8.4) x G x 10-3
Pressing force range: 0.10 - 0.25(kn)

○CT-ETS60, CT-ETS80, CT-TA50, CT-TA60
F= (1.36 x δ + 19.1) x G x 10-3
Pressing force range: 0.15 - 0.39(kn)

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Q27 Can an Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68) be installed facing up?
A27

When installing the optional brush on Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68), oil will not reach the tip of the brush when mounted facing upward. Use facing downward, and not horizontally. When using with pipes and no brush, the lubricator body can

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Q28 What is the food grade oil used in an Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68)?
A28

Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68) is filled with a lubricant that passes American FDA 21CFR178.3570*1 standards, and is USDA H1*2 certified. It is safe to use around food and can contribute to your product liability measu


○Safety
Plant oil based lubricant > liquid paraffin > food grade oil (equivalent to Tsubaki SFM68) > synthetic and special oils ≧ industrial lubricants

○Lubricant performance (lubrication effects, performance under extreme pressures, heat resistance, oxidative stability, resistance to rust, etc.)
Synthetic and special oils > food grade oil (equivalent to Tsubaki SFM68) ≧ industrial lubricants > liqui


*1 Lubricant that accidentally comes into contact with food is considered an "indirect food additive." After strict laboratory testing, the FDA has specified in detail what substances lubricants can be composed of, and their allowable concentrations.

*2 Using base materials approved by the FDA, it is a food grade additive certified "for use on lubrication points where accidental contact with food is possible." After H1 certification is H2, which means "lubricant that is ideally used in food factories

*3 HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) is a safety and sanitation control technique.
(See the Exxon Mobile food grade lubricant catalog and engineering data.)

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Q29 Can an Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68) be switched on and off frequently?
A29

The Automatic Lubricator for Roller Chain (SFM68) gas generator (dry cell battery type) can be turned on and off with just a switch.
However, it takes time for lubrication to discharge (minimum one day) and so is not suited to frequent on/off operatio


(The gas generator has a life of three years after manufacture. Be sure not to exceed this life when stopping your equipment for extended periods. See the appropriate Tsubaki catalog or instruction manual for more information.)

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Q30 Is there a way to measure chain wear elongation easily?
A30

Calipers or tape measures are normally used to measure chain wear elongation. Tsubaki offers a Chain Elongation Scale that allows users to easily judge whether their RS Roller Chain, BS Roller Chain, or Leaf Chain has reached its service life. (Scale does

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Q31 Can Tsubaki manufacture special end bolts?
A31

The Tsubaki End Bolt, used as end fittings in hanging applications, is a standard product in our Tsubaki catalogs ranging from RS40EB - RS120EB. Other sizes not listed are made-to-order. Contact a Tsubaki representative for more information.

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Q32 Are there tools for easily disassembling chain?
A32

For chain disassembly, grinders, vises, punches, and other general jigs can be used. Tsubaki offeres specially made items for easy use with chain. For more information, see our section on Drive Chain Accessories.

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Q33 What direction should the load on an end bolt be?
A33

In lateral (shuttle traction, pin gears, etc.) or vertical (hanging) applications, the roller chain load should act above the end bolt shaft center. Never use an end bolt with the acting roller chain load and end bolt shaft center in different directions

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Q34 How do you align sprockets?
A34

Proper sprocket installation affects smooth chain drive and conveyance, but also chain and sprocket life.
Refer to the Sprocket Installation section of our catalog and adjust any differences in shaft levelness, parallelism, and pairing.

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