Corrosion Resistant Chains

Authored by the CEMA Conveyor Chain and Sprocket Section, the paper explains how chain selection criteria differ between power transmission and conveying applications, emphasizing the role of bearing pressure, pin-and-bushing wear, and roller tracking. It reviews common corrosion-resistant chain options—including nickel-plated, zinc-coated, austenitic stainless steel, and martensitic stainless steel chains—and compares their performance characteristics, temperature limits, chemical resistance, advantages, and limitations.

The document highlights important tradeoffs, such as reduced working loads and speed limitations for stainless steels compared to heat-treated carbon steel chains, and provides guidance on matching chain materials to environmental exposure, regulatory requirements (including food-handling considerations), and operational demands.

This paper is intended to support informed decision-making and encourages consultation with chain manufacturers for unique or demanding applications. It is provided free of charge as a service to the conveying industry.

• Document Type: Technical Paper

• Committee/Section: Conveyor Chain and Sprocket Section

• Author: Rich Neuhengen, Timken Drives

• Intended Audience: Engineers, designers, maintenance professionals

• Applies To: Conveyor and power transmission chains in corrosive environments

• Publication Year: 2022

• Length: 4 pages