chain lubrication
chain lubrication
(OP)
The chain as we know it, needs a lot of lubrication.
Where is the lubrication most critical/important?
the pin/bushing interface? or the roller/bushing interface?
I would think the lubrication at the pin/bushing joint is a lot more important than the roller/bushing interface.
It seems sprocket-to-chain bushing is rolling contact (very efficient), but bushing-to-pin is sliding contact (under boundary lube conditions) and link-to-pin is sliding contact (under boundary lube conditions). Therefore I think the sliding action at the joints is the main reason why chain need so much attention when it comes to lubrication. And I would think it's also the most common reason for chain failure.
Is that right?
Where is the lubrication most critical/important?
the pin/bushing interface? or the roller/bushing interface?
I would think the lubrication at the pin/bushing joint is a lot more important than the roller/bushing interface.
It seems sprocket-to-chain bushing is rolling contact (very efficient), but bushing-to-pin is sliding contact (under boundary lube conditions) and link-to-pin is sliding contact (under boundary lube conditions). Therefore I think the sliding action at the joints is the main reason why chain need so much attention when it comes to lubrication. And I would think it's also the most common reason for chain failure.
Is that right?





RE: chain lubrication
Some chains can be destroyed very quickly if lubricated. In particular if running in fine grit.
Barry1961
RE: chain lubrication
In a place like an engine, roller chains are very durable, provided they actually get an oil spray. Hy-Vo chains have only rolling contact, and should be even more durable, but cost more.
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: chain lubrication
I thought it's easier to lubricate the roller/bush interface than the pin/bush? at least that's according to Tsubakimoto's website.
Also, since external lubrication is very easy, if the external side of the roller and the sprocket gets well lubed, I don't think lubrication between the roller/bush will matter as much.
RE: chain lubrication
But on dirt bikes, the sprockets are essentially a consumable item.
Sprocket cheap, chain expensive.
RE: chain lubrication
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: chain lubrication
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I guess it is possible to lubricate the roller link without getting oil on the pin link but I have never seen it done. The lubrication path for the pin/bushing is longer and the area is smaller so it will get less oil.
When I mentioned chain running in fine grit I was thinking of reclaimer chain in a cement plant. There the lubrication will cause the dust to form a hard abrasive coating.
Most of the SS, WH, MRS, MXS, S, X, C, H, 400 thru 900 Class Pintle, DF, MD, Detachable and Rivetless are designed to be able to run dry. Of course the non-metalics and washbox chain run without lube.
Barry1961
RE: chain lubrication
RE: chain lubrication
Barry1961
RE: chain lubrication
Mike, that preload is independent of the driving load right? So if the driving load is small, the efficiency is low. If the driving load is greater, the efficiency gets better? If the chain has to carry a heavy load, the "preload" due to the seals is negligible.
Are the O-ring chains significantly more expensive than a "regular" chain?
The O-ring seals will wear out with time right?
RE: chain lubrication
Take a look at U.S. patent 5,372,554.
Regards,
Terry
RE: chain lubrication
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: chain lubrication
But those are for silent chains, which are 5 times as expensive as roller chains.
Does the C shaped pin significantly add to the cost of the chain?
RE: chain lubrication
I'm really curious how that work because when the "C" joint articulate, it elongates/shortens the pitch of the chain. And it seems they are limited only to the silent/inverted tooth chains.
It also probably add a lot to the cost of the chain.
Welcome any comments.
Thanks.