Flexible Floating Idler Tensioner

[AndyB]

I remember seeing a floating sprocket chain tensioner for sale somewhere. It flexed to fit inside a chain run and just floated where it sat. Now I can't seem to find the link to the page on google or here. Anyone have a source? I think 118 used them last year.

Thanks,

Andy B.

[Ken Patton]

Originally Posted by AndyB

Anyone have a source?

I know that a few years ago, Team 1140 got 'em from McMaster-Carr.

Ken

[Po-ser]

I'm a huge fan of these, they're a bit pricey, but they've lasted us for three years and two robots.

McMaster:

5973K1
5973K2
5973K3
5973K4
5973K5
5973K6
5973K7
5973K8
5973K9
5973K11

[AndyB]

Originally Posted by Po-ser

I'm a huge fan of these, they're a bit pricey, but they've lasted us for three years and two robots.

McMaster:

5973K1
5973K2
5973K3
5973K4
5973K5
5973K6
5973K7
5973K8
5973K9
5973K11

Not quite what I was looking for exactly. I remember seeing one that flexed to fit inside.

[AJ R]

Originally Posted by AndyB

I remember seeing a floating sprocket chain tensioner for sale somewhere. It flexed to fit inside a chain run and just floated where it sat. Now I can't seem to find the link to the page on google or here. Anyone have a source? I think 118 used them last year.

Thanks,

Andy B.

When I looked at 118's robot in Atlanta last year, it looked like they just used a regular sprocket with most of the weight cut out.

[lbridgwater]

Originally Posted by AJ R

When I looked at 118's robot in Atlanta last year, it looked like they just used a regular sprocket with most of the weight cut out.

AJ R is correct. we took extra sprockets of the same pitch and cut out most of the material for weight. they are pushed into the chain and adjusted by pushing them closer to the drive or driven sprockets.

we have had on a few occasions that the impact forces through the drive train have shattered one of the more aggressively lightened sprockets.

[Cory]

Originally Posted by AndyB

Not quite what I was looking for exactly. I remember seeing one that flexed to fit inside.

I know what you're talking about. They were some sort of plastic/rubbery sprocket.

I spent a lot of time looking for them a year or two ago, and they only came sized for #35 chain. I thought McMaster had them, but a quick scan isn't showing me anything.

[EricH]

Originally Posted by Cory

I know what you're talking about. They were some sort of plastic/rubbery sprocket.

I spent a lot of time looking for them a year or two ago, and they only came sized for #35 chain. I thought McMaster had them, but a quick scan isn't showing me anything.

I saw some last year on 597. I'm not sure as to supplier though.

[Cory]

Originally Posted by EricH

I saw some last year on 597. I'm not sure as to supplier though.

254 used them on our 2003 robot. That was the first time I ever saw them, and I thought they came from McMaster, but I'm not finding them now.

[AndyB]

Finally found it:

http://www.renold.com/nmsruntime/sav...D=553&sID=1895

Now i just need to find a place to buy it.

[JHSmentor]

Originally Posted by AndyB

Finally found it:

http://www.renold.com/nmsruntime/sav...D=553&sID=1895

Now i just need to find a place to buy it.

when you do - let us know!! I've seen this during my recent searches too but was concerned that they would fall out with a side impact. maybe the chain tension with the teeth keep them in place?

It also looks like there is only one option for #35 chain and no options for #25. the part number for the #35 is 806 030 01.

[Tom Bishop]

Looks like on the last page of the brochure is the USA supplier in TN. I don't know if they sell to the public or retail, but if not, they probably know where.

USA
Morristown TN
Tel: + 1 800 251 9012
Fax: + 1 423 581 2399
e-mail: sales@renoldjeffrey.com

[Dad1279]

McMaster 5896k1

[AndyB]

Originally Posted by Dad1279

McMaster 5896k1

Thanks!

[R.C.]

anything like this for #25 Chain.