4 Reasons Why Buying Proper Welded Chain Matters

Purchasing industrial chain can be a difficult decision. With a wide range of options and features available, making sure you select the proper chain is critical. The decision could be based on the load capacity, the ability to deal with extreme temperatures or the overall strength of the chain. Whatever the reason may be, once the right chain is in place, the ability to prevent future wear and chain failure will increase, protecting your investment. As you dive deeper into the decision-making process, keep in mind these four reasons why buying the proper chain matters.

1) The Chain’s Application

Many chains perform well under light loads, but once the loads get heavier, the difference in production quality will become more obvious. Chains are very application specific. Most chains can only handle a specific load range. It doesn’t matter if the loads are pallets, grid boxes, or industrial containers. Once that range is exceeded, the rate of chain failure increases more rapidly as time goes on.

2) Premature Chain Failure

One of the main causes of chain failure is the environment that the chain is in. To increase the life of the chain, first increase their wear resistance and strength. Some manufacturers have been able to change the mechanical properties of their chains. As a result, it is important to take note of the number of applications the chain has performed, and the period of time the chain has been operating. By being aware of how much the chain is being used, it will be easier to predict when the chain needs to be replaced to prevent unplanned downtime.

4) The Press Fits and the Importance of Interference Fits

Welded steel chains supply superior fatigue strength. In order to maintain this level of strength, the chains typically have tightly controlled fits between the pin and chain sidebar hole. It’s this beneficial residual stress in the sidebar that creates a longer fatigue life. Some chains have a “stepped” pin to ease assembly and protect the integrity of the interference fit. Also note that poorly controlled interference fits have a lower fatigue strength and are more susceptible to chain failure after multiple uses.

Find additional information, access our Regal Rexnord Industrial Chain product page to find installation manuals, videos and product specifications.