When Should You Replace Sprockets?

How many Chain-driven machines operate in your plant each day? Do you frequently check the Sprockets driving those Chains? If not, you may be at risk of unexpected downtime. Sprockets are often exposed to harsh environments, corrosive materials, extreme temperatures and high-impact loads that shear Sprocket teeth, but they are often overlooked during routine maintenance.

So how frequently should you change Sprockets to reduce downtime and ensure optimum productivity? WE pulled together basic guidelines for Sprocket maintenance to help you improve the performance and service life of your Chain-driven machines. 

Sprocket and Chain Wear 

A Roller Chain is a linked Chain that uses pins and roller bushings at each connecting link to ensure that the Chain rides smoothly around a Sprocket when transmitting mechanical power. Over time the material eventually wears away from these pins and bushings because they rotate against each other as they articulate under load. As this wear occurs the length of the Chain will increase, which is also known as Chain elongation.

Elongation due to wear is normal part of Chain Drive operation. Several factors contribute to the rate of wear, including lubrication and load. As an elongated Chain engages a Sprocket, the tips of the Sprocket teeth wear over time.

When Should You Replace Chain and Sprockets?

Typically, you should plan to check for Chain stretch after the first 24, 100 and 500 hours of operation. Most popular Chain manufacturers recommend replacing Chains after 1.5% to 3% elongation. After this amount of elongation the Chain rides up on the Sprocket tooth, altering the pitch of the tooth.

To maximize the life of both components, Sprockets should be changed each time a Chain is replaced. If new Chain is used with existing Sprockets, worn Sprockets may prematurely elongate the more costly component to replace – the Chain.

Extend the Life of Roller Chain and Sprockets

· Proper lubrication is critical to extending the life of Chain Drive parts. Carefully following the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubrication will reduce wear for Sprockets and Chain and save in maintenance costs over time.

· Routinely check alignment as the smallest misalignment or offset between Sprockets can lead to considerable differences in part life and drive efficiency.

· Ensure proper sizing of Chain and Sprockets. Improper sizing or an incorrect number of teeth can accelerate wear.  Work with an experienced Power Transmission partner to ensure your Chain Drives can handle the loads that will be applied.

· Routine maintenance and inspection after the first 24, 100, 500 hours and every subsequent 1,000 hours will enable you to identify wear or other issues early, minimizing emergency downtime and avoid unnecessary replacement costs.

When It’s Time to Replace Sprockets, Choose A Power Transmission Partner You Can Rely On

For more than 15 years industrial experts have considered we are trusted resource for Power Transmission knowledge. With a team of knowledgeable Power Transmission experts and vast inventories, YYS partner to rely on for Roller Chain Sprockets, Power Transmission and Material Handling Components.