2 RS Roller Chain Connecting Links U.S. Tsubaki Roller Chain links can be easily connected using one of two types of connecting links. Though an offset type of connecting link is available for the connection of an odd number of links, it is best to use regular links whenever possible. Connecting Links U.S. Tsubaki uses two types of connecting links and, generally, two types of fasteners for RS Roller Chain: 1. A regular connecting link with either a spring clip or cotter pin type fastener 2. A special, high-performance, gold-colored connecting link also with a spring clip or cotter pin type fastener A spring clip is used for links sized RS60 and smaller. For chain sized RS80 and larger, or for three to six strands of RS40 or RS50 chain, a cotter pin is best. A roll pin type is used for chain sized RS240. The regular connecting link has lower fatigue strength than the gold link but is easy to use and handle. The regular type is suitable for most power transmission applications and has ample strength to withstand relatively high loads over a long period of time. The high-performance gold connecting link is preferred for severe conditions such as high impact or heavy loads and for applications with high- speed drives. The gold connecting link is durable and has fatigue strength almost equal to that of the chain itself. The gold connecting link is easily recognized by its distinctive color.
Spring Clip Cotter Pin Figure 2-1: Standard Connecting Link
Spring Clip Cotter Pin Figure 2-2: Gold-colored Connecting Link
Offset Links One-pitch and two-pitch offset links are available for RS Roller Chain. Two-pitch offset links consist of a roller link and an offset link with a riveted pin, as shown in Figure 2-3. The gold type connecting link can be used on both ends of the two- pitch offset link for increased capacity. The one-pitch offset link is relatively easy to handle but should be confined to lighter loads and medium- to low-speed applications with reduced start-and-stop frequency and low-impact loads.
Two-pitch Offset Link
One-pitch Offset Link
Figure 2-3: Offset Links
Note: Two-pitch offset links for RS41 chain and one-pitch offset links for RS25 chain are not available.
4 I NSTALLATION & M AINTENANCE
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