Engineering Class and Roller Chains – There Is a Difference

CONVEYOR CHAIN FACT SHEET, 2007-02

Prepared by the CEMA Conveyor Chain and Sprocket Section, the document clarifies that roller chains are primarily designed for power transmission, while engineering class chains are intended for material handling applications. It outlines the standardized sizing and numbering system used for roller chains and contrasts it with the manufacturer-specific identification systems common in engineering class chains.

The Fact Sheet helps readers understand why direct interchangeability is often not possible and why careful evaluation of specifications, materials, and manufacturing practices is important when selecting or replacing chains.

• Document Type: Fact Sheet

• Committee/Section: Conveyor Chain and Sprocket Section

• Intended Audience: Engineers, purchasers, maintenance professionals

• Applies To: Roller chains and engineering class chains

• Publication Year: 2007

• Length: 1 page

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