FRC 95, The Grasshoppers, Build Thread

[JamesCH95]

Originally Posted by Chris Endres

This was my biggest concern, along with cracking wheels, when designing this year. I would suggest getting a lot of spares for competition. Going over the obstacles and slamming into the ground will definitely break chain, as you saw first hand. At least it happened now and not at a competition.

What about slamming down causes chains to break in your estimation? (I mean this as an honest question, not a sarcastic one)

[Chris Endres]

Originally Posted by JamesCH95

What about slamming down causes chains to break in your estimation? (I mean this as an honest question, not a sarcastic one)

When pivoting on a wheel, driving, and slamming down on the ground with 120+ lbs will exert huge amounts of not only tension, but shock to the chain. There were times in 2012 where teams that went over the middle bump would shear a chain link after slamming into the ground. This is especially prevalent with #25 chain used on drive wheels.

That is my understanding and experience (wheelies in 2013 broke our chains sometimes), if I'm not completely right, sorry.

A way you can help prevent it is by switching to #35 chain, but honestly, just bring 5 or so spare chain lengths to competition (just in case).

[JamesCH95]

Originally Posted by Chris Endres

When pivoting on a wheel, driving, and slamming down on the ground with 120+ lbs will exert huge amounts of not only tension, but shock to the chain. There were times in 2012 where teams that went over the middle bump would shear a chain link after slamming into the ground. This is especially prevalent with #25 chain used on drive wheels.

That is my understanding and experience (wheelies in 2013 broke our chains sometimes), if I'm not completely right, sorry.

A way you can help prevent it is by switching to #35 chain, but honestly, just bring 5 or so spare chain lengths to competition (just in case).

Interesting. I believe your empirical evidence for sure, and we always bring an extra 25ft spool of chain and dozens of master links! Cheap insurance...