Failure Analysis of Roller Chain Drives

摘要

Results from the NAVSEA sponsored task to analyze failures of a roller-chain drive are reported. Several unexpected failures had occurred after relatively short exposure to sea water. This led to an inspection of the broken parts and fracture surfaces in an effort to determine causes of failure. The static breaking strength and fatigue life of the chain were determined by laboratory tests. Both optical and scanning electron micrographs were used in the analysis. Results show tensile overloading to be the principal cause of failure. However stress corrosion cracking may have reduced the useful life of the case hardened roller-chain pins. Modifications to improve the integrity of the system are recommended. (Author)