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Tension linkage chains are a series of chain products that are both catalog standard and manufactured for special purposes. The main use of a tension linkage chain is to move a load slowly or intermittently over a given distance. They also are used to reliably hold a load in position when it is not moving. Tension linkage chains generally move back and forth rather than through a complete revolution. Tension linkage chains are used in a variety of ways. They may be used for hoisting, supporting counterweights, or pulling objects through forming operations. The loads in these applications can range from a few ounces to several thousand pounds. The wide range of loads requires many different sizes and types of products to meet the different requirements. Examples of the different sizes of tension linkage chains can be seen in Figure 8-1. Speed and frequency of movement will often determine the type of product that is used. Applications that move frequently and faster may require a product that has features that reduce wear. On the other hand, applications with slow and infrequent movements may not need the same features. Both types of applications will be discussed later. Special types of roller chain, leaf chain, and block chain can be used as tension linkages. Some of these products are described in the American National Standards, but many are manufacturers specials and can only be found in their catalogs or by contacting them directly. Some of these products will be discussed in greater detail. Engineering steel chains in various styles of bar-link or block and bar chain are used for tension linkages. These types of chains will be discussed later.
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linkages. One should contact the chain manufacturer for help in choosing a chain type and size. Figure 8-3 shows several roller chains being used for actuation.
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ances for chain length and other specic dimensional features should be obtained from either ASME B29.8 or the leaf chain manufacturer. Clevises are normally used to connect the ends of a leaf chain. They are available in either outside or inside designs. Basic dimensions can be obtained by using the information found in Figure 8-9. However, the more detailed dimensions for designing a clevis must be obtained from ASME B29.8. Clevises must be manufactured to ensure equal load distribution across the entire width of the chain. Clevis connections to the equipment must also be designed to avoid misalignment. Materials of adequate strength are to be specied for both the clevis and the connecting pin. This information can be obtained from the leaf chain manufacturer. Sheaves that allow the leaf chain to travel around a corner should be designed according to the requirements in ASME B29.8. Figure 8-10 gives the general dimensions. Using sheaves with less than the recommended diameter of ve times the pitch should be veried by extensive testing. Sheaves should always be mounted with bushings or bearings that allow free rotation. The sheaves must be mounted rigidly enough to maintain good alignment and prevent unequal loading of the chain. The sheave must never interfere with the smooth operation of the chain. Other styles of leaf chain are available from some manufacturers. These chains are special and do not conform to any industry or American National Standards. Examples of these types are wrench chains and laminated block chains. One feature of wrench chain is the extended pins that are used to clamp the chain in position. Some types of laminated block chains have openings that allow the chain to be used with a toothed device similar to a sprocket. These and all other special types of chains can be found in manufacturers catalogs. Pictures of the two special-purpose types of leaf chain mentioned can be found in Figure 8-11.
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Chains of this type have been designed and built with an ultimate strength of more than 3 million pounds. Figure 8-12 shows how massive chains of this type must sometimes be. Some engineering steel chains used for tension linkages were shown in Figure 1-22, Figure 2-24, and Figure 2-25. These chains are not covered by any standards, but extensive listings of smaller sizes are contained in engineering steel chain catalogs. These smaller sizes are still some very heavy chains. Larger sizes are usually designed for an application and built to order. Most heavy tension linkage chains are simple designs. They usually consist of heavy blocks, bars, and leaves with heat-treated pins. The other components are not always hardened. Barlink and leaf chains are very similar in concept and function, but manufacturing methods differ greatly.
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Outside Clevis
Inside Clevis
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Chains are often a better choice for very heavy tension linkages because they can be designed to handle very heavy loads. Chains used in tension linkage applications are easy to lubricate, and regular lubrication extends the chains life. Chains are easy to install. End terminals, or connectors, simplify attaching the chain to the load.
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wear resistance. The construction also allows the use of a full complement of sprocket teeth for smoother operation or more compact drives.
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FIGURE 8-16 Tension linkage chain used in locks on the Mississippi River.
OTHER APPLICATIONS
Engineering steel tension linkage chains are used in the hold-down apparatus of rock drills and the ladle-tilting devices in steel mills and foundries. They are used in hydraulic lifts and counterweight balances on the arms of radial drills. And they are used in transmission systems between doubleacting hydraulic cylinders and their shafts. Two such unusual applications are shown in Figure 8-17 and Figure 8-18. The kinds of chain that are chosen for these applications depend on the circumstances. When chain movement is infrequent, a bar-link chain should be considered. When the chain rotates
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frequently relative to the sprockets, rollers, and sheaves, a bushed roller chain, with its smoother sprocket action, may be the better choice. The environment and access for lubrication are also factors. There are many variables to be considered when selecting engineering steel chains for tension linkages. The designer should consult with manufacturers for more information.