Sprockets for straight-running Multiflex chains
These sprockets enable reliable power transmission for straight-running multiflex chains. They offer optimum gearing for a slip-free drive and guarantee high operational reliability in industrial conveyor processes.
Sprockets for Straight-Running Multiflex Chains and Bone Chains
Sprockets for straight-running Multiflex chains transmit the drive movement positively to the individual chain links. The tooth geometry must match the respective bone chain precisely so that the chain engages evenly and is guided reliably through the conveyor system.
MOVET supplies conveyor sprockets for straight-running chain types 2000, 2500 and 3000. Different tooth counts, bore diameters and materials are available, allowing the sprocket to be matched to the installed chain series, drive shaft and operating environment.
Select the Correct Sprocket for the Chain Series
The installed Multiflex or bone chain is always the starting point when selecting a sprocket. Types 2000, 2500 and 3000 differ in their pitch and geometrical dimensions. A sprocket should therefore not be selected solely according to its bore or number of teeth.
| Chain type | Pitch | Available tooth counts | Available bores | Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type 2000 | 50.8 mm | 8, 10 or 11 teeth | 20, 25, 30 or 40 mm | PA or stainless steel |
| Type 2500 | 63.5 mm | 9 or 10 teeth | 25 mm | PA |
| Type 3000 | 76.2 mm | 8 or 9 teeth | 30 mm | Stainless steel |
This overview covers the currently available standard versions. Before ordering, compare the chain type, number of teeth, bore and all relevant installation dimensions with the existing conveyor or the technical drawing.
How to Read a Multiflex Chain Sprocket Designation
Product descriptions such as “Type 2000, Z 10, bore 25” already contain important selection information. The type number identifies the corresponding bone-chain series, while “Z” indicates the number of teeth. The bore value specifies the diameter of the opening for the drive or return shaft.
| Product example | Outside diameter | Flange diameter | Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 2000, Z 10, bore 25, stainless steel | 162 mm | 130 mm | 35 mm |
| Type 2500, Z 10, bore 25, PA | 202 mm | 162 mm | 35 mm |
| Type 3000, Z 9, bore 30, stainless steel | 218 mm | 171 mm | 40 mm |
These dimensions refer to specific product examples. Versions with other tooth counts may have different outside and flange diameters. The dimensions stated for the selected product therefore remain decisive for conveyor design and installation.
PA or Stainless Steel Sprockets
The appropriate sprocket material depends on the mechanical load, operating environment, cleaning process and installed conveyor chain. The current product range includes versions made from polyamide and AISI 304 stainless steel.
| Material | Characteristics | Typical selection criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Natural or black PA | Low component weight and suitability for many industrial conveying applications | Standard applications with appropriate temperature, load and chemical conditions |
| AISI 304 stainless steel | Corrosion-resistant and mechanically robust construction | Moisture, regular cleaning and applications with increased stability requirements |
A plastic sprocket and plastic chain do not necessarily need to be manufactured from the same material. The material pairing, load, operating speed and surrounding media must be suitable for the specific application. Where chemicals or cleaning agents are present, the resistance of every component should be checked separately.
Matching Tooth Count and Sprocket Diameter
The number of teeth influences the sprocket diameter and therefore the installation space required. Within the same chain series, a sprocket with more teeth normally has a larger diameter and engages with the chain over a wider circumference.
A smaller sprocket enables a more compact drive arrangement but guides the chain links through a tighter articulation radius. Installation space, conveyor speed, shaft speed, chain load and the permitted articulation of the chain must therefore be assessed together.
When replacing an existing sprocket, the original tooth count should generally be retained unless the complete drive is being recalculated. Changing the number of teeth affects the chain speed, transmission ratio and installation dimensions.
Matching the Bore to the Drive Shaft
The sprocket bore must correspond to the existing shaft and the intended torque transmission. Round bores between 20 and 40 mm are available within the standard range for chain types 2000, 2500 and 3000.
In addition to the nominal diameter, the required tolerance, shaft length, axial position and securing method should be checked before installation. The technical drawing indicates whether additional connecting elements or application-specific machining may be required.
A sprocket with the correct bore diameter is not automatically compatible with every shaft. Sprocket width, flange diameter, available clearance and the position of the chain centreline must also be considered, particularly when replacing components in an existing conveyor.
Installing, Aligning and Inspecting Conveyor Sprockets
Drive and return components must be aligned correctly to support smooth chain movement. Where several sprockets are installed on one shaft, they should be positioned so that their teeth engage with the chain synchronously and do not create lateral stress.
Tooth flanks, bores, shaft connections and chain guides should be inspected regularly for wear or damage. Severely worn or deformed teeth can affect the movement of the bone chain and increase wear on the individual chain links.
When replacing a significantly worn Multiflex chain, the associated sprockets should also be inspected. Installing a new chain on a worn tooth profile can result in irregular engagement and premature wear.
Selecting the Sprocket and Straight-Running Multiflex Chain Together
The sprocket and bone chain must be treated as a coordinated drive system. Important selection criteria include the chain type, pitch, tooth count, bore diameter, material, conveyor speed and mechanical load.
Suitable conveyor chains in types 2000, 2500 and 3000 are available under straight-running Multiflex chains . Additional drive components for modular belts and conveyor chains can be found under conveyor sprockets .
Conveyor systems with horizontal changes of direction require different chain and sprocket designs. Suitable versions are available under sprockets for curved Multiflex chains . Application-specific bore sizes, dimensions or materials can also be assessed as a customised solution.