Roller chains are an essential component in many mechanical systems, particularly in industrial and automotive applications. They provide reliable and efficient power transmission by connecting rotating shafts and transferring torque. There are several types of roller chains, each designed for specific applications. In our previous roller chain article, we talked about how to measure roller chain. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of roller chains and their advantages.
1. Standard Roller Chains
Standard roller chains, also known as ANSI roller chains, conform to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications. They are widely used in industrial machinery, conveyors, and agricultural equipment. Similarly to ANSI, there are also British Standard (BS 228), and German Industry Standards DIN 8187 roller chains.
Advantages:
- Premium strength and durability
- Available in various sizes to suit different applications
- Cost-effective and easy to maintain
2. Heavy-Duty Roller Chains
Heavy-duty roller chains are an enhanced version of standard roller chains, featuring thicker side plates for increased load-bearing capacity for applications in heavy industry, mining, construction, and agriculture.
Advantages:
- Greater resistance to shock loads and fatigue
- Suitable for high-load applications such as mining and heavy machinery
- Extended lifespan due to increased wear resistance
3. Double-Pitch Roller Chains
Double-pitch roller chains have longer links compared to standard roller chains, making them lighter and more economical for low-speed, long-distance applications.
Advantages:
- Reduced weight and cost
- Ideal for conveyor systems and light-duty applications
- Lower friction and wear for extended service life
4. Corrosion-Resistant Roller Chains
Some roller chain environments require corrosive resistance, such as marine use (such as salty sea water), food processing, chemical processing, and other high-humidity environments. A corrosion-resistant stainless steel is used to make roller chains for environments exposed to moisture, chemicals, or extreme temperatures.
Roller chains can also be treated with a variety of corrosion-resistant platings to increase corrosion resistance even above what stainless steel can provide. For example, nickel-plated roller chains provide an extra layer of corrosion resistance while still maintaining the strength of standard roller chains.
Advantages:
- Enhanced resistance to oxidation and rust
- Suitable for food processing, marine, and medical applications
- Low maintenance requirements
- Aesthetic appeal for exposed applications
- Suitable for moderate corrosive environments
5. Self-Lubricating / Lube-Free Roller Chains
Most roller chains require scheduled lubrication. Lube-free roller chains include oil-impregnated sintered bushings, making it a self-lubricating roller chain.
Advantages:
- Capable of same loads as standard roller chain
- Operates in temperatures up to 300 – 450 °F
- Lower maintenance requirements with no lubrication required
6. Leaf Chains
Advantages:
Leaf chains are a type of roller chain that consists of interleaved plates that give greater tensile strength than other roller chains. Leaf chains run over sheaves rather than sprockets. They are commonly used in lifting applications such as forklifts and hoists.
- High tensile strength for heavy lifting
- Compact and flexible design
- Excellent shock load absorption
7. Hollow Pin Chain
Hollow pin chains feature pins with hollow centers, allowing for easy installation of roller chain attachments or accessories.
Advantages:
- Versatile for conveyor applications and attachments
- Lightweight while maintaining strength
- Easy customization for specific industrial needs
8. Plastic Roller Chains
Plastic roller chains are made from engineered polymers, offering a lightweight and corrosion-resistant alternative to metal chains.
Advantages:
- Resistant to chemicals, moisture, and corrosion
- Quiet operation with reduced friction
- Ideal for food processing, medical, and light-duty applications
Specialty Roller Chains
We’ve covered the top ten types of roller chains, but there are many more chains for a wide variety of different applications. A few more highlights are:
- Curved Chains: Also known as side bow chain or radius chain, Tsubaki’s curved chain has extra space between pins, bushings, and link plates to allow for side flexing around curves and corners.
- Agriculture Chains: These chains use hardened steel components with tight tolerances and are designed to be used with existing sprockets for malleable chains. They have higher tensile strength, longer life, and provide a smoother operation for drives and conveyors.
- Miniature Chains: These mini roller chains are made to exacting specifications for applications with extremely limited space such as communications equipment, business machines, medical equipment, and more.
- Vacuum Wrapper Chain: Vacuum chambers require precision components that can handle extreme heat made with quality components with excellent corrosion resistance from sanitary washdowns.
There are of course many more types of roller chains for different applications. If you are unsure if you need a specialty roller chain or if you can use something more generic, it’s best to get in touch with the experts.
Finding the Right Type of Roller Chain with US Tsubaki
Choosing the right roller chain is essential for ensuring efficiency, durability, and optimal performance in any application. With so many types of roller chains available, selecting the best fit can be challenging.
That’s where the Motion Control engineering experts at IBT come in—we specialize in helping you find the ideal roller chain for your specific needs.
As proud partners of U.S. Tsubaki, a globally recognized leader in motion control solutions, we trust their high-quality, reliable roller chains to deliver exceptional performance across industries. With a reputation for innovation and durability, Tsubaki’s roller chains remain one of our top recommendations.
Get in touch with us today for a customized roller chain quote!
