Leaf Chains

Leaf chains are a type of chain used in various industrial applications, such as forklifts, cranes, and construction equipment. They are made of steel and are known for their durability and strength. In this article, we will delve into everything you need to know about leaf chains, including their construction, applications, maintenance, and more.

What are Leaf Chains?

Leaf chains are a type of roller chain that consists of individual steel plates, or leaves, that are linked together to form a continuous chain. Each leaf has a hole on both ends that allows the chain to be connected to other parts of the equipment. The leaves are usually made of carbon steel, which provides a high degree of strength and durability.

Leaf chains are constructed of individual steel plates, which are stacked on top of one another and linked together using pins. The pins are pressed through the holes on the ends of the leaves, connecting them to form a continuous chain. The pins are held in place using retaining clips, which prevent them from falling out of the chain. The chain can be lengthened or shortened by adding or removing leaves.

Types of Leaf Chains

The three main types of leaf chains are the AL series, BL series, and LL series.

The AL series leaf chains are known for their exceptional strength and wear resistance. They are constructed from high-quality alloy steel and feature a unique design that maximizes their surface area, providing increased contact and load-carrying capacity. AL series leaf chains have link plates that are the same contour and thickness as the ANSI roller chain pin links of the same pitch.

The AL series leaf chains also have a high fatigue strength, meaning they can withstand repeated cycles of stress without breaking down. This makes them ideal for applications that require continuous operation, such as in conveyors and material handling systems.

The BL series leaf chains are designed for applications that require high shock resistance. They are constructed with a thicker plate design and a larger pin diameter than the AL series, providing increased resistance to bending and breaking under heavy loads. The BL series link plates and pins are the same as those of the ANSI roller chain of the next larger pitch.

The BL series leaf chains also feature a unique lube groove design that helps to distribute the lubrication evenly throughout the chain, reducing wear and extending the life of the chain.

The LL series of leaf chains are designed with plates mounted with a sliding fit and are also secured with laterally attached riveted washers. This design guarantees an even load distribution and reduces the bending load of the pin. These chains have been designed to transport heavy loads under harsh conditions. They are particularly suitable for such applications due to their high fatigue strength. Chains may be assembled with chain parts according to ISO 606. Therefore the actual pitch may deviate from the nominal pitch. The permissible length deviation refers to the length specification of the manufacturer and is ± 0,25 % under the measuring force.

Applications of Leaf Chains

Leaf chains are used in a wide range of industrial applications, including:

• Forklifts/Cranes - Leaf chains are used in forklifts and cranes to lift and move heavy loads.
• Construction Equipment - Leaf chains are used in construction equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders.
• Mining Machinery - Leaf chains are used in mining machinery to move heavy loads.
• Agricultural Machinery - Leaf chains are used in agricultural machinery, such as tractors and combines.

Maintenance of Leaf Chains

Inspection

The first step in maintaining a leaf chain is to regularly inspect it for signs of wear and damage. This inspection should include checking for any bent or broken leaves, damaged pins, or signs of corrosion. It's also important to check the tension of the chain, as a loose chain can cause excessive wear and even damage to other components.

Lubrication

Proper lubrication is critical to ensuring that a leaf chain operates smoothly and with minimal wear. The lubricant helps to reduce friction between the leaves and pins, which can cause excessive wear and even lead to failure. The frequency of lubrication will depend on the application, but in general, it's recommended to lubricate the chain every 8 hours of operation.

When selecting a lubricant, it's important to choose one that is compatible with the application and the environment. For example, a food-grade lubricant may be required for chains used in the food industry. It's also important to use the correct amount of lubricant, as over-lubricating can lead to excess buildup and attract dirt and debris.

Replacement

Despite regular maintenance, leaf chains will eventually need to be replaced due to wear or damage. It's important to replace the chain as soon as signs of wear or damage are detected, as continuing to use a damaged chain can lead to equipment failure and potential safety hazards.

When replacing a leaf chain, it's important to select a chain that is compatible with the application and meets the necessary strength requirements. It's also important to properly install the chain and ensure that it is properly tensioned.

Advantages of Leaf Chains

Leaf chains offer several advantages over other types of roller chains. These advantages include:

• High tensile strength: Leaf chains can handle high tension and impact loads.
• High wear resistance: Leaf chains are made of high-grade steel and have excellent wear resistance.
• Flexibility: The chain's design allows it to accommodate more flexing than other roller chains, reducing fatigue and extending the chain's lifespan.
• Corrosion resistance: Leaf chains can be made with corrosion-resistant materials to withstand harsh environments.

Leaf chains are an essential component in various industrial applications, providing durability and strength. A Leaf chain’s design allows it to accommodate more flexing than other roller chains, which helps to reduce fatigue and extend the chain's lifespan.