Double pitch roller chain is a variant of standard roller chain where the pitch is exactly twice that of the equivalent standard chain, while using the same rollers, bushings, and pins. This design produces a chain that is physically lighter and less expensive per metre than standard chain. Understanding where double pitch chain is appropriate allows buyers to specify the more economical option where it genuinely fits.
What Double Pitch Roller Chain Actually Is
In standard ANSI roller chain, every link pair carries one roller at each pin. In double pitch chain, the pitch is doubled (ANSI 2060 has 38.10 mm pitch versus ANSI 60 at 19.05 mm) but the chain uses the same 11.91 mm roller diameter as ANSI 60. The result is a chain where rollers appear at every other pin position — approximately 35 to 40 percent lighter per metre than the equivalent standard pitch chain.
| Chain | Pitch (mm) | Roller Diameter (mm) | Rollers Per Metre | Relative Weight | Relative Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANSI 60 standard pitch | 19.05 | 11.91 | 52.5 | 1.0× | 1.0× |
| ANSI 2060 double pitch | 38.10 | 11.91 | 26.2 | ~0.6× | ~0.6× |
| ANSI 50 standard pitch | 15.875 | 10.16 | 63.0 | 1.0× | 1.0× |
| ANSI 2050 double pitch | 31.75 | 10.16 | 31.5 | ~0.65× | ~0.65× |
Where Double Pitch Chain Is Appropriate
Slow-Moving Conveyors — Below 30 m/min
Double pitch chain runs smoothly at low speeds. At higher speeds, the larger pitch produces more severe chordal action than equivalent standard pitch chain.
Light Load Conveying Applications
Double pitch chain carries approximately 60 to 70 percent of the breaking load of equivalent standard pitch chain. For lightly loaded conveyors and elevators, this reduced capacity is adequate and the weight and cost saving is worthwhile.
Large Attachment Pitch
When product carriers or buckets are spaced at twice the standard pitch or more, double pitch chain provides the attachment spacing naturally without requiring special attachment chain.
Long Conveyor Runs
The 35 to 40 percent weight reduction of double pitch chain can meaningfully reduce the drive motor size requirement and operating cost for long conveyor runs.
Where Double Pitch Chain Is NOT Appropriate
Double pitch chain should not be used in high-speed drives (above 50 m/min) where the larger pitch produces excessive chordal action; primary power transmission drives where the load is near the chain rating; applications requiring a small sprocket tooth count; or drives where chain speed accuracy matters, as chordal action at the larger pitch produces higher speed variation per tooth engagement than equivalent standard pitch chain.
Double Pitch Sprockets: What Is Different
Double pitch chain requires double pitch sprockets specifically designed for the 2× pitch. Standard pitch sprockets cannot be used with double pitch chain. Double pitch sprockets are available in large roller (R series, same roller diameter as the equivalent standard chain) and small roller (S series) configurations.
Double Pitch Chain Designation System
Double pitch chain designations follow the ANSI convention with a “2” prefix: ANSI 2040 is double pitch of ANSI 40; ANSI 2050 is double pitch of ANSI 50; ANSI 2060 is double pitch of ANSI 60. Some manufacturers also use the “DP” suffix. Both designations refer to the same specification.
EverPower Roller Chains Australia supplies double pitch roller chain in all standard ANSI sizes with matching double pitch sprockets. Contact +61 2 9708 3322 or [email protected].
+61 2 9708 3322 | [email protected] | 27 Harley Crescent, Condell Park NSW 2201