Chain Drives

The chain drive is a method in which mechanical power is transported from one place to another, typically found converting power to the wheels of a vehicle such as a motorbike or push bike. The simple process of a chain drive starts with the power generated is conveyed by a roller chain, known as the drive chain, moving over a sprocket gear, with the teeth of the gear meshing with the holes in the links of the chain.

The gear is turned, and this pulls the chain putting mechanical force into the system, creating motion to the vehicle. Chain drives share many similar qualities to a drive chain as both are attached to other instruments to power the machinery, but they differ as drive chains are most often made of metal, whereas belts are often rubber, plastic, or other substances. This makes drive chains stronger and weigh more, so more of the work put into the system goes into moving a chain versus moving a belt.

Also, drive belts can often slip which means that the output side may not rotate at a precise speed, and some work gets lost to the friction of the belt against its rollers causing the vehicle to have a reduction in power. This does not occur when there are teeth on the chain; this is because chains often last for a long duration as long as if the chain is well maintained.

Mechanical Industrial Distribution and Service

Tel: 01928 569111     Email: sales@midas-engineering.co.uk