1. Title: Chain Drive
Presented by :- Sudip Kamle
Univ. Roll No. :- 142001019
Kinematics and Theory of Machines ~ PC-ME503
2. TABLE OF CONTENTS :-
• Definition of Chain Drive.
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Chain Drive over Belt or Rope Drive.
• Classification of Chains.
• Discuss all types of chain.
• Applications of Chain Drives.
• Conclusion
3. Definition of Chain Drive :-
A chain drives works very similar to a belt drive system. It works by mechanically transferring power from once
source (known as the driver) to another source (known as the driven).
This is achieved from sprockets rather than sheaves pulleys (used in a belt drive).
A sprocket has visible drive points (teeth) on both the driver / driven locations and these locate with the links in
the chain.
A chain drive has distinct advantages over a belt drive.
4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Chain Drive over Belt or Rope Drive:-
Following are the advantages and disadvantages of chain drive over belt or rope drive:
Advantages:-
1. As no slip takes place during chain drive, hence perfect velocity ratio is obtained.
2. Since the chains are made of metal, therefore they occupy less space in width than a belt or
rope drive.
3. It may be used for both long as well as short distances.
4. It gives a high transmission efficiency (upto 98 percent).
5. It gives less load on the shafts.
6. It has the ability to transmit motion to several shafts by one chain only.
7. It transmits more power than belts.
8. It permits high speed ratio of 8 to 10 in one step.
9. It can be operated under adverse temperature and atmospheric conditions.
5. Disadvantages:-
1. The production cost of chains is relatively high.
2. The chain drive needs accurate mounting and careful maintenance, particularly lubrication and
slack adjustment.
3. The chain drive has velocity fluctuations especially when unduly stretched.
Classification of Chains :-
The chains, on the basis of their use, are classified into the following three groups:
1. Hoisting and hauling (or crane) chains.
2. Conveyor (or tractive) chains.
3. Power transmitting (or driving) chains.
6. Hoisting and Hauling Chains :-
Hoisting and hauling chains are widely used for industrial
purposes.
• These are also known as crane chains.
• In a nutshell, we can say that these chains are specifically used
for hauling and hoisting.
Hoisting and hauling chains are further subdivided into three types.
They are as follows:-
i) Over link chain
ii) Square link chain
iii) Stud link chain.
7. Conveyor Chains :-
The conveyor chains are typically used for conveying or elevating the materials.
These are manufactured of malleable cast iron that generates below level smooth running qualities.
These are mainly used in those places where there is a need of slow speed material shifting.
Basically, there are two types of conveyor chains:-
• Detachable or Hook Joint type chain.
• Closed Joint type chain.
8. Power Transmitting Chains:-
The power transmitting chains are the most important and widely used chain types that are used
specifically for the transmission of power.
The distance between the center of the shafts is minimal. These chains need efficient lubrication.
Basically, there are three types of power transmitting chains.
They are as follows:
i) Block Chain.
ii) Bush Roller Chain.
iii) Inverted Tooth or Silent Chain.
9. Applications of Chain Drives :-
The core applications of chain drive are vivid. Here are some of the essential applications of
chain drives :-
• It is used majorly in motorcycles.
• Due to the low manufacturing cost of chains it is widely used for industrial purposes such as for
cranes, conveyors etc.
• One of the wide usage is in one of the best inventions i.e. in bicycles.
• Chain links are widely used in overhead hoists especially in those industries where there is a material
movement from above.
Conclusion :-
With these being said the use of chain drive is vivid. The understanding of chain drive and it's all
aspects lead to having better knowledge.
This article provides a holistic view of all the aspects and generates a deep sense of knowledge about
chain drive. Though the study of chain drives can be elaborated further.
