Leaf Chains
Leaf chains are built to achieve higher strength for applications that perform lifting & hoisting operations. Unlike traditional roller chain, the leaf chains are only comprised of interlaced plates and pins for better strength and durability. In a leaf chain system, the chains use sheaves (pulleys) to guide and control the chain during use rather than sprockets.
In any lifting application there is always an elevated concern for safety. For enhanced quality control, every Nitro® leaf chain goes through a patented CCD Inspection imaging system to check for various potential defects.
Nitro Features:
- Carefully Selected & Sourced Carbon/Alloy Steels
- Shot Peening To Reduce Fatigue Cracking
- Modern Furnaces To Deliver More Precise Heat Treatment
- Hot Dipped Lubricant
- Patented CCD Inspection System
Common Leaf Chain Applications
- Fork Lifts
- Gantry & Overhead Cranes
- Counter Weight Balancers
- Hoists
AL vs BL Leaf Chains
AL leaf chains was the first leaf chain adopted and recognized by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). In 1975, the AL series was completely removed from the B29.8 standards and replaced with the new BL leaf chain series. The BL series offers much higher tensile strengths, which comes from dimensionally larger plates and pins. From a safety prospective, any new application designed should only use the BL leaf chains.
Leaf Chain Numbering System
All leaf chain manufactures use the small identifying numbers that represents the leaf chain series, pitch, outer plate count and the inner plate count.
Leaf Chain Series
- AL - Light Duty
- BL - Heavier Duty
Pitch Size
To obtain the pitch dimension for leaf chains, you take the first number ("Pitch Size") from the leaf chain number as shown above. You multiply that number by 1/8" (0.125) to obtain the pitch measurement.
- BL4
44- 4 * 0.125" = 0.500" (1/2") Pitch - BL5
44- 5 * 0.125" = 0.625" (5/8") Pitch - BL6
44- 4 * 0.125" = 0.750" (3/4") Pitch
Number Of Outer Plates
The second number after the Pitch Size represents the number of outer plates in the leaf chain.
Number Of Inner Plates
The last number in the lead chain number represents the number of inner plates in the leaf chain.
Corrosion Resistant Leaf Chain
Does your company manufacturer equipment that's used in high corrosive environments such as saltwater? Nitro Chain offers made-to-order leaf chains with a highly corrosive resistant coating that is found in our ShieldX® roller chains. A standout feature of this coating is the application process does not cause hydrogen embrittlement, which is commonly found in nickel and zinc plating processes.