Shaft Parallelism
Shaft parallelism should be checked before installing sprockets. Typically shafts should be parallel to within 0.4 mm per meter. Ramsey should be consulted for applications where shafts are not horizontal.
Sprocket Alignment
Sprockets should be aligned on the shafts so there is little or no lateral offset between sprocket faces. Excessive wear will result if the sprockets are not properly aligned.
Tensioning
Chains must be properly tensioned at installation and checked periodically. Chain life will be shortened by either running too tight or too loose. A chain which is too tight has an additional load imposed on it which will accelerate wear and increase noise. A chain which is too loose may whip, or surge, and experience shock loads which shorten the useful chain life.
On drives where the line between shaft centers is horizontal or inclined as much as 60 degrees from horizontal, the chain should be tensioned to allow a sag in one strand equal to approximately two percent of the shaft center distance. The chain should be taut in vertical or fixed center drives, and on drives subject to shock loads, reversing, or dynamic braking.
Chain Connection
A variety of connector styles are available with Ramsey chain. Click on Connections to learn more about connection options. During connection it is very important that all safety procedures be followed. This includes wearing proper eye protection, wearing gloves, and making sure that power sources are turned off and locked out. It is also very important that the ends of the chain be properly laced together before connecting pins are inserted.
