Special Lubricated Chains

In general chains are used in industries that deal with high temperatures as well as unusual conditions. On top of this some chains have to work in dusty or abrasive conditions. The abrasive then mixes with the oil and forms slurry which makes the chain wear faster. It is due to this that in some cases special lubricants may be needed.

Special lubricated chains are specifically designed for applications that don’t permit regular lubrication, meaning the chain depends entirely on initial factory lubrication throughout its service life. For applications where regular lubrication is a challenge; special lubricated chains can offer a longer lasting solution. Plus best of all they can be used in almost every sector of industry where chains are used as transport or as part of a drive system.

When it comes to a chain there are said to be generally three points where the chain needs lubrication, firstly the rivets need to be lubricated as they move inside the inner links as the chain bends and straightens. The second point is the inside of the rollers; these need lubrication so that they revolve freely around the bushings as they engage and disengage the sprocket teeth. This is very important as the lubrication is what allows the rollers to actually roll; if they don’t they will slide along the sprocket teeth, causing accelerated sprocket wear. Finally the third point where a chain needs lubrication is on the surface where the outer side plates overlap the inner side plates.

In many industries, companies end up having to replace chains altogether and replace them with belts. The reason being is down to poor lubrication of the chains, which leads to the chains only lasting a short time; but why is the lubrication of the chains poor? The answer to this question can be found within the way that the current chain lubrication process takes place. This involves applying a heavy oil or grease to the outside of the chain. Even though this ensures that the outside of the chain and the sprockets are lubricated well, it does nothing to protect the contacting surfaces inside the pin and bushing/ plate/ roller/ hook, which are considered to be the most important area of the chain when it comes to vulnerability. It is down to reasons such as this that special lubrication when it comes to chains is so important.

Chains are generally used in industries such as agriculture, food processing, packaging, printing, textile and chemical processing. When used in such industries it is very easy for contaminants to be introduced, which can cause damage to the standard chain. These contaminants are aspects such as dirt, mud, food particles, paper fines, dust and moisture. All of these can cause a build up on the chain and clog the openings on standard roller chain where lubrication enters the pin/bushing area. These contaminants can even get inside the chain, actually damaging the surface of pins and bushings.

If damage is caused to the chain then this can often slow an industries production down, which is one of the last things that you want! So to ensure that everything runs smoothly within your business I recommend that you invest in some special lubricated chains.

For all of your Special Lubricated Chains needs look no further than Howcroft Industrial Solutions.