Static Stress Analysis of Link Plate of Roller Chain using Finite Element Method and Some Design Proposals for Weight Saving

Abstract

Roller chains have a long history as mechanical elements for transmission. Although they have clear advantages over belts in terms of performance and efficiency, their larger weight has always been a disadvantage. In this paper, the authors propose some methods of weight saving for roller chains. These methods are based on finite element method (FEM) analysis of the stress and deformation in a link plate of a roller chain. The authors also suggest some approaches for reducing stresses and weight saving in the link plate of the roller chain. Stresses are 3% higher in the proposed design, but the weight is reduced by 10%. Tensile tests are performed on link plates made of resin, and the effectiveness of the proposed model is confirmed.