How To Measure Chain Size and Chain Pitch

Getting the right chain for your project the first time means less time that your machinery is down and more money in your pocket! Having to go back and forth trying different sizes of chain only to find that they don't work exactly as expected can bring production at your business or farming operation to a screeching halt. Since downtime is so expensive both in terms of machine time and labor, it's vital that you find exactly the right size for your chain before you place an order. Once your order has been placed, you need the confidence of knowing that the professionals at PEER Chain will be quickly and efficiently processing your order and shipping the correct roller chain and parts to your door. Here are tips that will help you understand how to measure chain pitch and how to measure chain link size.

PEER Chain part numbers or item descriptions are typically indicated on the chain plates and product packaging. Using the PEER part numbers, you can easily find the chain size and specifications on PEERchain.com. If you do not have access to PEER part number, then you may need to measure the chain.

As a first step, we should define the components of roller chain.

• Pin Link Plate: This is an outer plate on the pin link of roller chain. It can be straight or figure-8 shaped.
• Roller Link Plate: This is an inner plate on the roller link of roller chain. It can be straight or figure-8 shaped.
• Roller: This rotates on top of the bushing on the roller link.
• Pin: This is press fit into the pin link plate and bisects the bushings in the roller link.
• Bushing: This is press fit into two roller link plates and is bisected by the pin in the pin link.

Oftentimes the plates are stamped with chain size (i.e. 40, 08B, C2040, etc.). These can come in the form of numbers or letters stamped on the outside of the side plate and can help you to look up the full dimensions of your chain via manufacturer provided information. Because the roller chain must interact directly with sprockets and other moving machine parts, it is necessary to measure its dimensions precisely. Therefore, it is important to measure all components of the roller chain in order to identify the correct chain.

How to Measure Chain Link Size

Measuring chain link size doesn't have to be difficult! All you need is an understanding of a few simple concepts, and you will quickly be able to determine the size of the chain that you need for your project. Roller chains come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. The number of strands on your roller chain may also vary, making it important to understand exactly how to measure your chain link size. You'll be looking for the:

• Overall width of the chain
• The diameter and width of the roller
• The thickness of the plate
• Overall height of the chain

Once you have all of these measurements in hand, you can match to the handy size chart online or contact one of the professionals at PEER Chain to place your order.

How to Measure Chain Pitch

Measuring the pitch of a roller chain can be a bit tricky, but as long as you are careful about the various parts and how you measure you will quickly be able to get the sizes that you need. Measuring the pitch begins by identifying the pin of your chain. Pitch is the measurement from the center of one pin to the center of the next pin in line. The pitch helps determine the overall rated weight and strength of the roller chain.

When your business depends on getting access to knowledgeable professionals that can help get your projects moving again quickly, it's good to know that PEER Chain is here to help. Whether you are trying to figure out how to measure chain pitch or simply need to reorder a known part, you can trust that your request will be handled promptly and you will receive the correct items in good condition. For many decades, PEER Chain has been the choice of farmers, manufacturers and more because we have an exceptional focus on our customers. Contact the experts at PEER Chain today by calling 800-523-4567 or via email to [email protected] if you have any questions about how to measure chain link size and you'll be certain to receive a rapid response.