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Upgraded lube-free chains last 50% longer
Published:  11 September, 2012

Tsubaki has developed a lube-free chain with an upgraded bush design, said to deliver a 50% increase in wear-life performance. Microscopic pores in the seamless sintered bush of the new Lambda chain are vacuum-filled with a high-performance lubricant (1 in diagram below). The lubricant specifications, oil impregnation methods, heat treatment and bush geometries, have all been improved.

A special hard coating on the pin surface (2) enhances the chain’s long-term internal lubrication and increases its wear resistance, resulting in extended lifetimes and reduced maintenance. A centre sink pin design (3) makes it easy to disassemble chains, while markers on the rivet head enable users to identify pin rotation – an indicator of chain overload.

A patented ring coin connecting link (4) ensures that the chain can be specified up to its full capacity. The standard slip-fit connecting link is usually up to 25% weaker than the other links.

For conveyor applications, a 25% reduction in initial elongation is standard, reducing the need for post-installation maintenance and helping to increase the life of the chain. The elongation pattern of the new chain is said to be extremely stable, minimising the need for intermediate chain and sprocket adjustments.