How Do I Measure Chain Size For A Sprocket?

Sprocket-ed rollers are commonly used on pallet conveyors and driven conveyors. Sprockets are designed for use with a specific chain.  Chain size is determined by the chain pitch.  In the United States all chains are made to an ANSI (American National Standard Institute) standard.

What is Pitch?

Chain size is commonly referred to as Pitch. In actuality, chain size is determined by the chain pitch.  Pitch refers to the measurement from one roller-pin center to the next roller pin center of a given chain.

ANSI (American National Standard Institute) chain pitch is always measured in 1/8” increments

If You Have The Sprocket and Need The Chain Size

To measure the chain size, if you have just the sprocket, use calipers to measure between the teeth. Measure from center to center of where the chain roller would set between the teeth that will give you the pitch.  Once you know the pitch you can determine what chain size you would need.

If You Have The Chain and Need The Chain Size

If you have the chain, the chain size is often stamped into the side of the chain link.  The most common chain sizes used in conveyor roller applications are listed in the following size chart table.

Most Common Chain Sizes For Conveyor Rollers

CHAIN SIZES PITCH
40 0.500”
41 0.500”
50 0.625″
60 0.750″

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