This section provides an overview for chain couplings as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 20 chain coupling manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked chain coupling companies as of November, 2024: 1.C-King Industry Co., Ltd., 2.Linn Gear Co, 3.Ramsey Products.
Table of Contents
1985-2014: Worked for Alstom Corporation, ABB Corporation, and Gadelius Corporation, designing Jungstrom air preheaters and mechanical design of diamond soot blowers. (ABB Corporation: https://new.abb.com/jp)
2014-2021: Worked as an engineering and project manager at Alvos Inc.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoichi-hiroki-92192394/
Figure 1. Appearance of chain coupling
Chain couplings are shaft couplings that use sprockets and chains to connect two shafts, and are a type of flexible shaft coupling (coupling).
A shaft coupling is a mechanical element that joins two shafts and is responsible for transmitting the power and rotation of the drive shaft to the driven shaft. A shaft coupling is also called a joint or coupling.
Deflection-type shaft couplings can absorb misalignment between two shafts and mitigate shaft mounting errors.
Figure 2. Example of chain coupling use
Chain couplings are shaft couplings used to connect general-purpose general industrial motors to equipment and devices. For example, they are used as shaft couplings between electric motors and pumps in production plant equipment.
The power of the electric motor drives the pump and cools the equipment as cooling water circulates through the equipment. Chain couplings are used especially for general purpose applications.
They feature a wide range of application, with shaft outer diameters from φ10 to φ700 mm and torque ranges from 100 to 700,000 N-m (figures are examples only). In addition, since the connection between the shafts can be disconnected without disassembling or moving the machine, construction work is easier in case of sudden breakdowns or maintenance.
Principle of Chain Couplings
Generally speaking, shaft couplings require a torque transmitting force and a certain misalignment tolerance. If the centering between machine shafts to be connected by a shaft coupling cannot be accurately installed, the machine may be damaged by vibration generated by the misalignment.
In such cases, deflection shaft couplings are used to absorb the misalignment between machine shafts and to prevent the load from being placed on the motor and other machines. Chain couplings are used as one of deflection type shaft couplings and have high transmission capacity and simple structure among deflection type shaft couplings.
Centering is easy, and the play between the chain and sprocket protects the machine from excessive load. In addition, the roller chain and sprocket teeth are meshed, and the torque applied is distributed to multiple chain roller and sprocket teeth, resulting in excellent durability.
Figure 3. Structure of chain coupling
A chain coupling consists of two sprockets, two rows of roller chains, and a cover that protects the entire coupling. Compared to other shaft couplings, chain couplings have a simpler structure and fewer parts.
For installation on a machine, two rows of roller chains are wound around two sprockets mounted on two shafts, and pins are inserted into the unlinked ends of the chains to connect them. For disassembly, the procedure is the reverse.
A special cover is installed to improve safety and durability without splashing grease on the chain section. 2-divided covers are assembled with bolts between gaskets, and O-rings are installed on both ends to prevent grease leakage. The case must be installed when the coupling is used in high-speed rotation or in dusty or corrosive atmospheres.
Chain Couplings have practical advantages, but they also have disadvantages.
Advantages
Disadvantages
There is no JIS standard for Chain Couplings, but the synonymous Roller Chain Shaft Couplings are specified in the following standard.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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NBK America LLC, founded in 2015 and based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, is an American manufacturer and a subsidiary of Japan's Nabeya Bi-tech Kaisha, specializing in mechanical components. Their product range includes couplings, like miniature shaft couplings for precision machine tools and semiconductor manufacturing equipment, special screws, such as vacuum application screws and other machine components. NBK offers finite automaton (FA) solutions, including wireless positioning units for production lines and setup operations. NBK provides machine component servicing, such as vibration resistance treatment and laser engraving. Services for couplings and special screws include coupling stainless steel screw alteration and screw length adjustment.
Nordex, Incorporated, established in 1960, and headquartered in Connecticut, USA, is a manufacturer of comprehensive turnkey solutions and machinery equipment for medical, automotive, and various industries. The company offers various products, including advanced machinery, automation systems, equipment for laboratory analysis, shafts, and various integrated technological equipment. These products enhance operational efficiency, streamline processes, and optimize resource utilization. The products find application across diverse sectors such as manufacturing, medical, automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy. Electro-mechanical technical knowledge and clean room capabilities allow it to perform manufacturing systems integration for semiconductor and analytical machinery, precision machining, gear design, and fabrication.
G&G Manufacturing Co. is an American manufacturer of power transmission products and parts that was founded in 1943. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, the company produces over 3,500 standard transmission components including light duty sheaves and bushings, sprockets, power take-off (PTO) drivelines, and roller chains. These are used by clients in the material handling, military, mining, and agricultural sectors. G&G also offers engineering and fabrication services for customer projects that have unique specifications.
Linn Gear, established in 1954 and based in Oregon, United States, is a manufacturer and supplier of stock and custom mechanical power transmission components for industrial applications. The company’s product range includes a variety of gears, such as spur gears and change gears, along with components like change gear bushings and miter gears. Additionally, they produce sprockets and related products, serving the industrial machinery sector. The company stocks finished goods available for immediate shipment as well as semi-finished goods that can be customized to meet customer specifications and requirements.
Mädler North America was founded in 2020 as the US-based subsidiary of Mädler which was founded in Berlin, Germany in 1882. Mädler specializes in manufacturing precision-made machine parts. Product lines include linear guides, bearings, bushes, bevel gears, worm wheels, castors and wheel systems, couplings, fastening elements, clutches, gear boxes, idlers, linear bearings, locking assemblies, machine mounts, elements for pneumatic machines various joints, rubber padding and dampers, splined shafts and hubs, sprockets, timing belts, spindles, adhesives, sealants, and other assorted accessories.
Ramsey Products, also known as Ramsey Silent Chain, established in 1923 and based in Belmont, North Carolina, is a manufacturer and supplier of silent chain drives. Its product line includes silent chains utilized for power transmission, glass conveying chains specifically designed for the glass industry, and wear-protected chains. It also specializes in custom manufacturing chains, and produces complete drive systems, pre-assembled and ready for installation. It maintains a global network of distributors, representatives, and warehouses, extending its reach across various regions worldwide.
Bearings Industrial Supply Company, Inc (BIS) was founded in 1982 in Addison, Illinois. The company is a supplier and distributor of bearings, seals, belts, power transmission parts, and a variety of other industrial supplies to small and large customers such as Boeing and Toyota. The company isources from manufactureres such as Emerson, KOYO, Tsubaki, NTN, and Timken. The company's offerings include numerous types of bearings, many varieties of seals, several different belts, AC and DC motors, and power transmission components.
USA Roller Chain & Sprockets, founded in Winter Garden, Florida, in 1931 is a supplier of industrial chains, sprockets, bearings, motors, and reducers. The company's product portfolio includes Roller Chain Breakers, Roller Chain Pullers, Roller Chain Tensioners, Roller Chain Lubricant, and Hollow Pin Roller Chain. The company serves markets including Medical and Healthcare, Aerospace and Defense, Consumer Goods, Industrial Manufacturing and Construction and Building. The company also provides services including national distribution, product selection, troubleshooting, repair and customer service.
Hangzhou Chinabase Machinery Co., Ltd., founded in 1992 and based in Hangzhou, China, is a manufacturer specializing in an array of products, including power transmission components. Its key products encompass chains and sprockets for industrial power transmission, gearboxes to enhance torque and reduce speed, couplings for shaft connections, and gears used across industrial applications. Its products find applications in automation, conveyor technology, packaging, food, pharmaceuticals, and more. The company maintains quality and sustainability, holding certifications like ISO 9002, ISO 9001, API, ISO/TS 16949:2002, and ISO 10012 measurement management system.
Cross+Morse, founded in 1984 and headquartered in Birmingham, England, is a manufacturer of power transmission products and solutions. The company's product portfolio includes various belt drives and roller chain drives, shaft couplings, clutches, gears and torque limiters. It offers custom made bespoke components as well as rework services like reboring, keywaying and setscrewing of standard sprockets, pulleys and gears to turn it around to a required specification. The company is ISO 9001:2015 accredited and has a range measuring equipment like Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), digital tri-bore gauges and micrometres which are calibrated to comply with ISO standards.
Tsubakimoto Chain Co. is a Japan-based manufacturer of power transmission and roller chain products, founded in 1917, and headquartered in Osaka. Their power transmission products include drive chains, conveyor chains, automotive timing drives, sprockets, hose, and cable carrier systems, as well as timing belts, reducers, locking devices, shaft couplings, and clutches. Their products are for power transmission, material handling, factory automation, and physical distribution systems. Tsubakimoto Chain is certified as an Eco-First Company by the Ministry of the Environment.
Challenge, established in 1979 and based in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, is a manufacturer of a broad range of power transmission products. The company specializes in making roller chains, double-pitch chains, taper bore sprockets, classical V-belts, and V-pulleys. It also manufactures tire couplings, chain couplings, motor mounts, gearboxes, and bearing units. The advantages of its roller chains include pins manufactured from chrome manganese molybdenum steel that increase wear resistance and shock absorption abilities and ball-swaged holes that combat fatigue failure.
Miki Pulley Co., Ltd., founded in 1939, is a manufacturer and provider of solutions for power transmission and control problems, headquartered in Kawasaki City, Japan. They manufacture various products essential for all industries, including couplings for high-precision power transmission, electromagnetic clutches and brakes for power transmission when energized, and speed changers and reducers for controlling the speed of machinery. They also offer inverters, linear shaft drives, rotation speed indicators, torque limiters, and ROSTA rubber springs.
C-King Industry Co., Ltd., established in 1986 and based in Taibao City, Taiwan, is a manufacturer of various flexible couplings and transmission pulleys. The product portfolio includes precision-molded components, adaptors, couplings, pulleys, and custom-made parts. These product offerings provide optimal durability, stability, and functionality. These products find application in industries such as automotive, electronics, healthcare, and manufacturing. The company plays a vital role in supplying essential components that assist in the performance and accuracy of various transmission industries globally.
Bhagyoday Transmission Co., established in 1967 and headquartered in Gujarat, India, is a manufacturer of advanced gears, couplings, and transmission components. The product category includes precision-engineered gears, bearings, sprockets, gearboxes, and transmission assemblies to ensure smooth power transmission, enhanced durability, and operational stability. The company holds ISO and IndiaMart certifications for product superiority and adherence to industry standards. These products find application in diverse industries such as automotive, industrial machinery, and manufacturing. With the latest technology and advanced machinery, it plays a crucial role in supporting industries by providing optimum industrial coupling products that optimize performance and operational efficiency.
Delson Engineers, founded in 2005, and headquartered in Mumbai, India, is a manufacturer of industrial equipment and machinery products for various industries. The product range includes conveyors, precision machinery components, wire mesh, automation equipment, and specialized tools that offer enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and productivity to manufacturing processes. The company holds ISO 9001 certification, which attests to product quality and adherence to industry standards. These products find application across diverse sectors such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical devices. The products result in improving manufacturing operations, ensuring precision, and supporting industries in achieving their production capacity.
Kevya Corporation, established in 2010 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, is a manufacturer of industrial machinery gear coupling parts and transmission machinery parts. The company specializes in manufacturing advanced flexible gear coupling accessories as per customized requirements and is a member of the IAF. The product ranges include sprockets, chains, pulleys, couplings, and brake drum gear coupling parts, to name a few, along with other accessories. These products are used in automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, construction, and other workshop machinery. The products are durable, stable, efficient, and reduces downtime for the machines at economic prices.
B.V. Transmission Industries, founded in Mumbai, India, in 1963 is a manufacturer of industrial Components that includes Stainless Steel Slate Chains, Universal Joints Couplings, and Pulleys. The company's product portfolio includes Chain Sprockets, Chains, Mechanical Gears, belts, gears and racks & pinions. The company serves industries such as Oil and Gas, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Construction, and Power Generation. They have operations in UK, Dubai, Oman, Gulf, Argentina, Sri Lanka, and European countries.
WMH Herion Antriebstechnik GmbH, established in 2003 and headquartered in Bayern, Germany, is a manufacturer that specializes in drive technology, assemblies and systems, and tools. The company's products include spur gears, splined shafts, linear drives, screw jacks, and more. It also provides a servo worm gear unit, bevel gear units, slewing bearings, and threaded nuts. Its product enables even machine gantries weighing enabling tonnes to be accelerated dynamically and positioned accurately down to the micrometer. The company is an accredited training company of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce. It serves industries such as engine, turbine, machinery, and more.
ABB E-mobility provides electric vehicle charging solutions for customers around the globe. ABB E-mobility offers DC fast chargers as well as AC chargers with focus on reliability and uptime. Since 2010, ABB E-mobility has sold over 50,000 DC fast chargers and over 1 million total AC chargers. ABB E-mobility offers home single and multi-charge units, retail, workplace, and hospitality charge units, electric vehicle fleet sales, as well as public transportation. Additionally, numerous digital solutions and software services are available.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | C-King Industry Co., Ltd. |
14.7%
|
2 | Linn Gear Co |
11.8%
|
3 | Cross+Morse |
8.8%
|
4 | Ramsey Products |
5.9%
|
5 | HANGZHOU CHINABASE MACHINERY CO., LTD. |
5.9%
|
6 | Kevya Corporation |
5.9%
|
7 | Maedler North America |
5.9%
|
8 | Bearings & Industrial Supply Co., Inc. |
5.9%
|
9 | NBK America LLC |
5.9%
|
10 | WMH Herion Antriebstechnik GmbH |
2.9%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the chain coupling page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 8 | 44.4% |
India | 4 | 22.2% |
United Kingdom | 2 | 11.1% |
Japan | 2 | 11.1% |
China | 1 | 5.6% |
Taiwan | 1 | 5.6% |