Chain vs. Belts?!?

[Deke]

Originally Posted by DrewMatic

Hey everyone. I'm from team 240 T.E.M.P.E.S.T.

The past 2 years we have used chain everywhere. There was one thing that happened, we had to fix the chain a lot more than we liked too. I know this could be due to poor alignment, etc. but next year we plan on using belts.

What are your thoughts on Chains? Belts?

Thanks, Drew

Both chain and belt are legitimate forms of power transfer and can be used successfully with proper implementation.

My personal preference is chain for low speed high torque applications, such as drive. Chain takes up much less space than an belt with the same strength. IMO chain has more reliability and strength in a smaller package, with less efficiency and more weight than belts.

Belts for high speed low torque application, the gains in efficiency are noticeable over chain. Also, belt for long runs for weight reduction.

The beauty is there is no right or wrong answer, there just has to be consideration for the down selection and performance desired.