O-ring chain
2478682
199045349
2008-03-18T08:46:23Z
NipponBill
835057
/* External links */ add category
The '''o-ring chain''' is a specialized type of [[roller chain]] used in the transmission of mechanical power from one [[sprocket]] to another.
== Construction ==
The o-ring [[Roller chain|chain]] is named for the [[rubber]] [[o-ring]]s built into the metal rollers of every link in this particular type of metal chain. Chain manufacturers began to include this feature in the 1980s as a way to improve lubrication to the links of power transmission chains, a service that is vitally important to extending the working life of chain. The o-rings fit into the gap between the rollers and the links that surround each roller and hold the entire chain together. These rubber fixtures form a barrier that holds factory applied lubricating [[grease (lubricant)|grease]] inside of the rollers while still applying sufficient [[lubrication]] to the chain body. Further, the rubber o-rings prevent dirt and other contaminants from entering the inside of the chain linkages, where such particles would otherwise cause significant wear.
== Applications ==
O-ring chains are most notably used in [[motorcycle]]s, one of the most demanding applications for a metal chain. High [[revolutions per minute|RPM]] and heavy loads require bulky chains, but such engineering increases the effect of [[friction]] compared to lighter chains. So lubrication plays a vital role here, but the high RPM also make it very difficult to keep lubrication inside and on the chain. Additionally, motorcycle chains are exposed to a large volume of contaminants and particles and must be protected. O-rings, as described above, fit this application perfectly.
== Care ==
Depending on usage and wear, o-ring chains should be maintained differently, but it is generally advisable to follow a few guidelines:
*clean the chains often
**never use gasoline to clean the chains, its [[solvent]]s damage o-rings
**use kerosene or other light petroleum solvent.
**avoid using stiff brushes - they can damage the o-rings
*add o-ring compatible lubricant
**this ensures the lubricant being applied will make it inside the rubber seals
**do this about every 200 miles - on a motorcycle every other gas-stop will do.
**wax-based lubricants have less 'fling' but may attract more dust and grit
**many high-mileage riders use an automatic chain oiler
**some sources note that the o-rings seal the lubricant inside the chain - however you still need to lubricate the chain-sprocket interface.
*when in doubt, purchase a new chain
**generally the sprockets should be replaced at the same time as the chain.
==External links==
* [http://chain-guide.com/ The Complete Guide to Chain]
* [http://will.mylanders.com/mc/loobman/ Automatic chain oiler review]
[[Category:Chains]]
[[Category:Motorcycle technology]]
[[Category:Power transmission]]
[[Category:Mechanical_power_control]]
[[de:O-Ring-Kette]]