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Unread 10-10-2014, 13:26
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Joe G. Joe G. is offline
Taking a few years (mostly) off
AKA: Josepher
no team (Formerly 1687, 5400)
Team Role: Mentor
 
Join Date: Sep 2006
Rookie Year: 2007
Location: Worcester, MA
Posts: 1,447
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Re: Is tensioning necessary for #35 chain?

Quote:
Originally Posted by fb39ca4 View Post
Last season, we switched to chains on our robot partway through, and it caused us all sorts of problems because the wheel spacing was the worst possible (the chain was very loose, yet did not have enough slack to take off a half link) and we had problems with chains falling off. We would like to use chains next year, but avoid all those problems. From what I have heard, #35 chain is not very stretchable, and correctly calculating the center-center distance is sufficient. However, a mentor is still worried about stretching and recommended we add a chain tensioning system, which would add complexity to the chassis. What are your thoughts on adjustable tensioning with #35 chain? Worth it or not?
It depends on how long your chain runs are, and how well constructed your system is. Short distances in a very rigid part? Should be no problem. Long runs to a gearbox mounted such that it can flex over time? Add a tensioner.
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FIRST is not about doing what you can with what you know. It is about doing what you thought impossible, with what you were inspired to become.

2007-2010: Student, FRC 1687, Highlander Robotics
2012-2014: Technical Mentor, FRC 1687, Highlander Robotics
2015-2016: Lead Mentor, FRC 5400, Team WARP
2016-???: Volunteer and freelance mentor-for-hire