What Are the Main Roller Chain Tests? | Quality Assurance Guide
The roller chain tests reveal a chain's breaking point, longevity, wear behavior, and corrosion resistance—key factors that impact reliability, safety, and cost efficiency.
Roller Chain Test Types
Tensile(Ultimate Strength) Test
A tensile strength test measures the maximum load the chain can withstand before breaking. It's usually done using a universal testing machine that pulls both ends of the chain until it fractures.
Pre-load(Proof Load) Test
Applies around 30–50% of the breaking load post-assembly to stabilize components and reduce early wear.
Wear Resistance Test
Chains run over sprockets under a set load and speed; elongation is measured. Failure to maintain <1.5%–3% elongation indicates the need for replacement.
Fatigue(Endurance) Test
This test checks the chain's ability to survive millions of repeated loading cycles without cracking, breaking, or excessively stretching. Fatigue is often the main reason for failure in real-world applications, especially in high-speed or high-frequency operations.
Push-out Force Test
Checks the tight fit of pins and plates by testing the force needed to push them out—essential for joint integrity.
Dimensional Inspection
Validates key dimensions (pitch, roller diameter, plate thickness) using calipers to ensure proper sprocket fit.
Corrosion(Salt Spray) Test
ASTM B117 salt spray exposure evaluates the chain's corrosion resistance, vital for outdoor us.
Hardness Test
Uses Rockwell/Brinell tests to confirm pin, bushing, roller, and plate surface hardness after heat treatment.
Noise & Vibration Test(Optional)
Used for chains in noise-sensitive environments; measures sound/vibration under operation.
Roller Chain Maintenance & Inspection Tips
✔ Inspect chain tension and alignment regularly
✔ Measure elongation—replace if > 2–3%
✔ Lubricate appropriately to minimize wear
✔ Check sprockets and remove worn or misaligned parts
Roller Chain Test Comparison
| Test Type | Purpose | Key Metric |
| Ultimate Strength | Measure breaking load | lbf or kN |
| Fatigue | Endurance under cyclic stress | Number of cycles or S-N |
| Wear Resistance | Assess elongation over time | % elongation |
Push-out Force | Check pin-plate tightness | Newtons / pounds |
Salt Spray | Evaluate corrosion resistance | Hours to rust appearance |
Hardness | Check heat treatment quality | HRC / HRB / HB |
Choose CTS® Roller Chain
At CTS-ChinaTransmissionS, every roller chain we manufacture undergoes rigorous quality testing. By following international standards such as ANSI and ISO, and combining them with our in-house inspection protocols, we provide durable roller chains. When you choose CTS, you're not just buying a chain — you're investing in reliability, consistency.
Contact us today to learn more about our high-quality roller chains and customized solutions.
