What Is a Sprocket?

A sprocket is a mechanical device used to rotate a vehicle's wheels. It is usually made of metal or reinforced plastic. This device is similar to a bicycle chain, with its wheel-shaped teeth. However, a sprocket only interacts with a specific type of chain. In bicycles, for instance, a sprocket and chain assembly work together to move the rear wheel and handlebars.

The ANSI sprocket is a unit that refers to a single, double, or triple-strand sprocket. These units are commonly referred to as pitches, and they are expressed in metric measurements. When choosing a sprocket, you can also look at the pitch, or distance between the roller centers. The most common chain sizes are 3/8″ or 1/2″, respectively.

The chain drive can generate a vibration profile similar to a gear set. In general, sprockets should have a sag of about a quarter inch on the driving side and a slight sag on the slack side. The chain should be lubricated prior to startup, and it should be inspected periodically for signs of wear or low oil level. Also, the chain drive should be installed following plant safety guidelines.

The roller chain is a popular example of a chain drive. The chain consists of side plates, pins, bushes, rollers, and toothed sprockets. These links mesh with transmission chains to transmit power. The transmission chains are made of plastic or steel, and are capable of covering a larger distance than a sprocket. There are many uses for a roller chain.

The pitch of a sprocket is a measurement that determines the gear ratio between the driven and drive chain. A pitch of 50 teeth will produce a 2:1 reduction in speed, and a pitch of 59.9 would produce a 2:1 ratio. Consequently, choosing the proper chain for a sprocket will be vital to the efficiency of a bicycle. So, what makes a sprocket a good fit?

In general, there are three basic types of sprockets: type A, type B, and type C. The former uses a flat plate with no hub and requires additional machining before installation. The latter is ideal for cycles because it allows the sprocket to be swapped without having to remove the entire equipment. The B and C style hub configurations are common among U.S. manufacturers. In addition to bore, the other dimensions include the length and number of teeth.

A chain with 3% or less wear is a good candidate for replacement. The chain should be replaced once it exceeds 3% elongation on an adjustable drive, and 1% for a fixed-centre drive. If the wear is more severe, you should replace the chain immediately. The teeth of the sprocket should be visible, and the chain can be raised half an inch to reveal excessive wear. If the teeth of the sprocket are not sharp, the chain should be replaced.

Altering the sprocket can have a dramatic effect on the bike's acceleration and top speed. In fact, the final drive gear ratio is easily determined by dividing the rear sprocket teeth by the counter-shaft sprocket's teeth. A smaller counter-shaft sprocket will result in increased acceleration and top speed. This will result in a higher gear ratio.