Even with the most careful operation of the chainsaw, the owner sooner or later faces the need to replace the saw chain. The range is represented by several types that differ in pitch, configuration of cutting links and other indicators. The best chainsaw chain is the model recommended by the instructions for use.
The guide bar and chain are interchangeable equipment, so the owners of budget chainsaws are given the opportunity to choose a saw set that is more wear-resistant and durable in operation.
Photo: chainsaw chainThe desire to increase the performance of the saw by installing a longer headset can only be realized if the engine has a sufficient reserve of power and torque.
It is best to independently choose a chain for a chainsaw that is optimal in terms of cost and operating parameter after consulting with an experienced specialist. Incorrect selection of headset components can reduce the performance of the chainsaw or initiate its early failure.
The quality of budget and branded chains is significantly different. Many owners of cheap household chainsaws prefer to operate their equipment with more advanced saw sets from the leading brands Stihl, Husqvarna and Oregon. The unofficial rating recorded an increase in consumer demand for similar products trademarks Hammer and PowerSharp.
The standard length of a household saw bar with a power of 2-2.5 hp. is 40-45 cm. The size of high-performance professional class analogues reaches 70 cm.
The higher price level of branded tires and chains is offset high quality complex sawing work, increased resource, stability of performance throughout the entire time of the service life specified by the manufacturer.
Properties of wear-resistant chains for general and special purposes
The types of household and professional grade chains intended for working with wood are distinguished by the quality of the material, the duration of the resource and the cost. Designed for work on concrete, the diamond chain, unique in terms of wear resistance, belongs to the category of special emergency equipment.
Wear resistant carbide chain might be one option. The overhaul life of such a product is an order of magnitude higher, but its sharpening requires special equipment that allows you to sharpen the cutting links at different angles, respectively, for standard transverse and longitudinal sawing.
Carbide chain designed for productive sawing hard rock timber and light building blocks. It should be borne in mind that when working on aerated concrete or foam concrete, the resource of a saw set, even the most prestigious brand, is reduced by 2-3 times.
Saw chain pitch characteristics
The selected chain must match the length of the guide bar and its design features. One of the main parameters for choosing a chain is its pitch, which is traditionally measured in inches.
In the cutting headsets of chainsaws of the household group, 3/8 inch chains are operated smoothly and safe in operation, in the metric standard - 0.325 mm.
Analogues with an increased pitch of the 0.404 ″ type are designed to complete powerful and productive chainsaws professional level, therefore, they are practically not used in household chainsaw equipment.
Self installation headsets with an increased pitch must be coordinated with the type and traction characteristics of the power unit.
Shank options
Not less than important condition right choice saw chain is the thickness of its shank, which varies from 1.1 to 2 mm. In inch standard shank sizes are 0.043/ 0.04/ 0.05/ 0.058/ 0.063 and 0.08 inches, respectively.
Chains with minimum thickness are operated in light low-cube models of a budget level. In household and semi-professional chainsaws, analogues resistant to constant and variable loads, with a thickness of 1.3 to 1.6 mm, are more in demand. Reinforced chains with 2 mm shanks, complete with professional chainsaw equipment.
Design features
In the medium and high class chain, each cutting link is equipped with two shanks, which inevitably affects the increase in its cost. Owners of their own chainsaws are offered more affordable models of throughput or semi-throughput type.
In the first case, additional chain elements are located directly after the cutting link. In the second option, the connecting elements are mounted after every second pair.
In standard, pass and semi-pass chains, the number of saw links is 50, 40 and 37.5 percent, respectively. The simplification of the design of cheap products is inevitably accompanied by an increase in the load on the saw links, the need for frequent sharpening and a reduction in its service life.
Length
This chain indicator is determined by the number of links. Leading manufacturers indicate the length of the chain in inches or the number of links in the accompanying documentation. When buying any model yourself, it is recommended to know both parameters.
Professional grade circuit design features
The offered range can be divided into chains with chisel and chipper configuration of cutting links. In the first case, the link in the section is similar to the number 7. Such a profile provides increased productivity in sawing operations of increased complexity.
A significant drawback of the chisel "seven" is the complexity of manual sharpening, since even a slight deviation from the given angle, the main advantages of the seven profile are canceled.
The chipper links are sickle-shaped. The increased area of contact with the sawn wood creates additional loads on the engine. On the positive side, the design of chipper circuits is valued for its stability of operation under high level contamination and less stringent requirements for precision finishing of cutting edges.
Types of materials
Standard saw chains are made from high quality chromium-nickel steel. To work with dense and frozen wood, chains with carbide links are recommended. A significant drawback of such models is the increased cost and the need to use special sharpening equipment with corundum nozzles.
Cutting depth and chain profile height
These parameters should be known to owners of professional models who sharpen chains manually at home. The depth of cut is adjusted by decreasing the stop height of each cutting link.
The parameters of the low profile and high profile chain are 0.025 and 0.03 inches, respectively. Knowledge of profile types is necessary for the correct selection of the height of the limiters.
Chain models for cross and rip cuts
Main range saw chains with a sharpening angle of cutting links 25-35° is designed for standard transverse cutting of wood. Models for longitudinal sawing in the domestic market are present in a minimum amount.
If necessary, the shortage problem is simply solved by changing the sharpening angle of standard chains to 5-15°. The tire in this embodiment is operated without changing the design.
All information given is valid for Chinese chainsaws and their components. Most of the Chinese chainsaw range is made up of more or less successful copies of leading European developers, so all standards are almost identical.
How is the need to sharpen the chain manifested?
Dull saw chain teeth significantly increase sawing time. The malfunction is manifested by increased vibration, back kicks when the headset enters the cut, the ejection of small chips and a clear smell of burnt wood.
With the help of a manual sharpening device installed on the headset, cylindrical and flat files, the cutting edge of the saw links is restored without removing the chain from the bar. A more advanced and productive way is to fine-tune the chain in a specialized workshop.
gives a significant gain in time, guarantees the same angle on all cutting elements of the chain. User feedback on automated sharpening is mostly positive. On the negative side, there is a template finishing of each saw link, without taking into account its wear and other individual characteristics.
Pro recommendations for the operation and maintenance of saw chains
A significant part of the used headsets does not fully develop the assigned resource.
The main causes of forced wear:
- low efficiency of the lubrication system;
- high degree of wear of the drive sprocket;
- excessive saw chain tension;
- use of substandard and surrogate chain oils.
Experts advise operating a set of several chains, changing them as needed. In this option, you can use the advantages of more productive mechanized sharpening.
Worn and damaged chains should be discarded in a timely manner. Even in the presence of an emergency stop brake and a safety device, the operation of parts that have exhausted their service life is characterized by an increased risk of injury.
How to eliminate the risks of buying a chain counterfeit?
On the domestic market, there is a small but stable range of fake parts for chainsaws and component materials of Asian, mostly Chinese production.
With all the desire to match the quality of the European level, the technical and operational properties of Chinese copies are far from perfect, since they develop their resource somewhere by 50-70%.
This disadvantage is to some extent offset by lower cost. On the other hand, practice shows that only branded products guarantee long and trouble-free operation of chainsaw equipment.
Purchasing a part in a licensed or branded store will help you avoid the risks of buying a Chinese fake branded as a branded product.
When buying a chainsaw, different aspects are important. One of the main parameters is the pitch of the chainsaw chain. It affects how fast the machine will cut wood. At the same time, for chains of different pitch, an engine of at least certain power. The correct matching of the chain type and motor power allows you to extend the life of the unit, as well as the most efficient use of fuel.
What is chain pitch and how is it determined?
Traditionally, in any field, a step means a certain distance between objects following one after another. If we talk about chainsaw chains, then here the pitch determines the distance between the axes of the rivets located one rivet apart from each other. The same length will also coincide with the distance between the tips of the links that go into the groove of the tire. Therefore, to determine the pitch of the chainsaw chain, it is enough to measure the indicated distances. You will get it in millimeters, but the step is indicated in inches, which means that the resulting value must be divided by 25.4. As a result, get your step. True, on old stretched chains this value will be slightly larger, but nevertheless it will still be close to one of the standard sizes.
Chains with a larger pitch also have greater performance. This is due to the fact that at long distance between the teeth, the latter bite deeper into the wood. Hence the greater performance. But for the use of such productive chains, a sufficiently powerful chainsaw is also needed. Since not all saws have more power, there are chains with smaller pitches. However, it is worth noting that there are also low-profile chains with smaller teeth. If you take a low profile chain with a larger pitch and compare it with a high profile chain with a smaller pitch, then the latter will have more performance. In general, low-profile chains are used on the most low-power saws used in everyday life.
So what are the steps on chainsaw chains? The dimensions will be:
- 0.325″
- 0.375″ (but more commonly referred to as 3/8″)
- 0.404″
And if the chain is low profile, then the letter P is usually added to the designation. For example, 3/8″P. Actually, with a pitch of 3/8 ″, low-profile chains are mainly made.
Well, when comparing chains of different pitch, it should be noted that a chain with a larger pitch due to the fact that it cuts deeper into a tree creates more vibration. Because of this, the accuracy of the cut is reduced, since the chainsaw is more difficult to hold evenly in your hands. Therefore, for greater cutting accuracy, when productivity is not so important, it is better to use a chain with a smaller pitch.
Chainsaw power depending on the chain pitch
As mentioned above, the larger the chain pitch, the greater the power of the chainsaw engine should be. What exactly are these numbers? Let's consider.
In order for the saw to work confidently for each step of the chain, the engine power must be at least the following values:
- 3/8″P - from 1.6 hp (1.2 kW);
- 0.325” - from 1.8 hp (1.47 kW);
- 3/8” - from 3 hp (2.21 kW);
- 0.404” - from 4.5 hp (3.31 kW).
Compliance with these parameters will allow the saw to maintain the required speed of rotation of the chain, as a result of which the motor will not feel overloaded and, accordingly, will not heat up. You will also avoid unnecessary fuel consumption, as well as the phenomenon of chain jamming in wood.
If you put a chain with a small step on a chainsaw that is too powerful, this will lead to unreasonably high gas mileage. But if there is no less powerful apparatus, but at the same time greater cutting accuracy is needed, then there will be nothing wrong if you use a chain with a smaller pitch.
However, the above power characteristics are suitable if the chainsaw is not supposed to be used constantly, but only occasionally. For permanent professional activity, it will be necessary to comply with the following conditions:
- 0.325” - from 2.5 hp (1.84 kW);
- 3/8” - from 4 hp (2.94 kW);
- 0.404” - from 6 hp (4.41 kW)
Pitch 3/8″P is not specified, as it is not used for professional activities.
Compliance with such ratios will allow the chainsaw to last as long as possible.
Relationship between chain pitch and chain thickness
Since the load on the chain, depending on the pitch, can be more or less, then the chain must be either thicker or thinner. This refers to the thickness of those chain links that enter the groove of the bar. Their thickness can be as follows:
- 1.1mm
- 1.3mm
- 1.5mm
- 1.6mm
- 2.0mm
On household saws, as a rule, this thickness, and hence the width of the groove on the tire, leaves 1.1 or 1.3 mm. In this case, with a thickness of 1.1 mm, as a rule, a low-profile chain with a pitch of 3/8 "is used. At 1.3 mm, there is also either a low-profile pitch of 3/8″ or 0.325″.
1.5mm chains can be either 0.325″ or 3/8″. And they always have a high profile. Chains of this thickness are used on medium power devices.
Chains with a link thickness of 1.6 and 2.0 mm are used on high-power professional chainsaws designed for many hours of daily work in the harshest conditions. The step can be any - and 0.325 ″, and 3/8 ″, and 0.404 ″.
Additional Circuit Options
In addition to the pitch and thickness, the chain for chainsaws has a number of important characteristics that cannot be ignored. These include:
- tooth shape
- number of links
- sharpening angle
The shape of the tooth can be of two types: chisel and chipper. The chisel tooth has the shape of the number 7, that is, the upper and side surface connected at an acute angle. The chipper tooth has a rounding instead of an acute angle. The chisel chain is more productive, but it also exerts more load on the engine, as it encounters more resistance along the way, since it has a wider cutting edge. A chipper, respectively, on the contrary, is easier, but its performance is less.
The number of links depends on the length of the tire. At the same time, with the same length of the bus, short-pitch chains naturally have large quantity links. By the way, this also affects the final price of the chain, since, as a rule, the price is determined per link. Therefore, for example, a chain from one manufacturer for a 40 cm tire for a 3/8 pitch will cost less than for 0.325.
The sharpening angle is either 30 degrees or 10. The first is the most common, as it is used for transverse cutting of wood (sawing for firewood, felling trees), while the second is used for longitudinal sawing, and these are operations that are less common (sawing a log into boards , for example), and therefore chains with such an angle are less common. You can buy a ready-made chain with the right angle right away, or you can sharpen one chain into another on the machine.
Choosing a chain depending on the work ahead
Before buying a chainsaw, it is important to understand in advance for yourself what kind of work you will do to it.
All work can be divided into three areas:
- garden care, minor firewood harvesting, minor work on the site;
- wood construction, large-scale firewood harvesting, infrequent felling of trees;
- daily professional operation associated with felling trees or significant volumes of firewood.
For the first sphere, chainsaws with a chain with a pitch of 0.325 ″ or a low-profile 3/8 and a thickness of 1.1 or 1.3 mm are suitable. Such devices are small in weight and dimensions, so they are very convenient to use on your own site. Since the volume of work in domestic use is not too large, the margin of safety and performance of such chainsaws will be more than enough.
For the second sphere, devices with 3/8 and 0.325 ″ chains with a thickness of 1.5 mm are suitable. The margin of safety of these chainsaws and their performance is more than enough for such work.
In the professional field, chainsaws with a thick chain of 1.6 or even 2 mm cannot be dispensed with. The step here will be 3/8 or even 0.404″. The power of such chainsaws is large, so they can easily work with such chains, despite the fact that the resistance during operation is quite large. At the same time, the productivity, of course, is simply huge - it turns out to cut down trees and harvest firewood very quickly.
From the foregoing, it becomes clear that putting inappropriate types of chains on chainsaws is not worth it. Even if you put in a suitable drive sprocket and tire (and these parameters will also be different for chains of different pitch and thickness), the chainsaw will either be overloaded if you put a chain with a large pitch and high profile on a low-powered model, or it will not use all its opportunities if you put a chain with a fine pitch or low profile on a powerful saw. In this case, it will simply burn gasoline in vain.
Summarize
So, as we found out, chains can differ both in pitch and in thickness, number of links, sharpening angle and tooth shape.
When choosing a new chainsaw, you must clearly understand what work you need it for and, depending on this, choose a unit with a chain suitable for this.
If you need a chain for an existing chainsaw, then you need to know all of the above parameters in order to buy a chain that suits you.
Well, it is better to buy a chain from well-known manufacturers, such as, for example, Stihl or Oregon. Yes, they are more expensive, but they also last much longer, as they are made of high-quality steel, so they stretch less, and the likelihood that it will break is also much less.
The choice of petrol saws is determined by several criteria. One of them is chainsaw chain pitch. This parameter determines the capabilities of the equipment, the speed of cutting materials and must correspond to the engine power, only in this case it will be possible to extend the life of the tool and reduce the specific consumption of fuel and lubricants.
The concept of a step and its meaning
Chain pitch is the distance between any three rivets. In saw chains, this length characterizes the distance between two cutting teeth relative to each other. The pitch value is also equal to the length between the tops of two adjacent chain shanks (guides that go into the groove of the bar). In order to correctly determine the pitch of the chainsaw chain, the distance between the axes of three consecutive rivets is measured.
There is a reasonable rule that says that what more distance between the cutting teeth of the chain, the deeper they go into the material being cut. By increasing the pitch of the chainsaw chain, you can increase its performance. In this case, the force for rotating the drive sprocket changes accordingly. It is required to understand that the higher the pitch, the more force must be applied to pull it while cutting the material and the greater the engine power should be.
Modern gasoline saw manufacturers use three main types of saw chains with the following pitch values, measured in inches:
- 0.325;
- 0.375 (marking 3/8 is used in the classification);
- 0.404.
The quality and accuracy of the created cut in the material depends on the chain pitch. If the quality of cutting when working with a chainsaw is not of global importance, then the accuracy of the cut is sometimes important when dissolving logs or boards, for this you need to take into account the dependence of the saw pitch on the dissolution of wood according to given markings.
The chain selection rule indicates that the pitch between the teeth is directly proportional to the performance, power reserve of the motor and inversely proportional to the accuracy of the cut being created.
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Correspondence of engine power and the distance between the cutting teeth of the chainsaw chain
Based on the data obtained empirically, it is recommended to choose a chainsaw, considering the ratio of drive power and the distance between the cutting edges. It is known that the higher the pitch, the more force must be applied to rotate the drive sprocket and the greater must be the maximum torque developed by the gasoline engine.
To correctly select the correct tool configuration, you must use the data on the minimum power ratings for each of the three typical chain pitches.
Critical power indicators of gasoline engines rotating the drive:
- step 0.325” - power not less than 1.8 hp (1.47 kW);
- step 3/8” - power not less than 3 hp (2.21 kW);
- pitch 0.404” - power not less than 4.5 hp (3.31 kW).
If the power of the driving motor is less than the specified values, then the following phenomena are possible during the dissolution process: chain jamming in the tree, a decrease in the rotation speed of the drive, leading to motor overheating, an increase in sawing time and increased operating costs for fuel.
The use of powerful motors with a chain having a small pitch is impractical, as this will also increase the dissolution time and increase fuel costs. However, this combination is allowed, if necessary, to perform precise work with wood.
The specified minimum ratings for the drives are indicative of the equipment's ability to operate reliably, but do not represent the continuous use of the equipment in a professional environment. Rather, these values are given as guidelines for occasional work or tool use with long breaks. For long-term use of equipment that implies professional mode, the following technical data conformances are required:
- step 0.325 ”- power 2.5 hp (1.84 kW);
- 3/8" pitch - 4 hp (2.94 kW);
- step 0.404” - power 6 hp (4.41 kW).
The choice of instrument should not be justified by the desire to have the maximum possible step chains, so this entails the presence of a powerful motor, a long tire, which greatly aggravates the saw.
And if it, for example, will be used occasionally or for holding dacha works, then this choice is inappropriate.
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Dependence of the pitch on the additional characteristics of saw chains
During the movement of the chain and cutting the wood, very high loads act on it, in connection with this important characteristic is the thickness of the link element entering the tire groove and sliding in it. This value also indicates the thickness of the fastening elements of the links. You can measure it with an ordinary caliper.
Typical guide element thicknesses:
- 1.1mm;
- 1.3 mm;
- 1.5 mm;
- 1.6 mm;
- 2.0 mm.
Thicknesses of 1.1 and 1.3 mm are used for the manufacture of entry-level chains designed for minor work. Most often, the stride length at these values is 0.325”, which implies a gentle mode and low loads.
The 1.5 mm value is the most common on the market for chainsaws and accessories, this value is enough to ensure safe operation at a step of 3/8”. However, this value will always indicate that the chain is not intended for professional activities.
The guides, which have thicknesses of 1.6 and 2.0”, are designed to guide the most complex work, that is, they allow the use of equipment in shifts. At the same time, you need to know that these two values \u200b\u200bare a certain classifier, indicating that the metal for the manufacture of these chains is smelted from special steel grades, that is, increased strength is incorporated into the structure.
All manufactured chains may differ in the depth of cut. It is characterized by the height of the cutting tooth (profile). The height is measured between the top flange of the cutting edge and the stop (all on the same segment). There are low profile and high profile chain products.
The higher the profile, the higher the entry into the wood and, accordingly, the sawing speed. The height of the profile affects the occurrence of vibrations, which can cause increased wear on the drive or the problem of holding the tool in your hands, the higher the cutting part, the stronger the vibrations will be. Also, a high-profile chain requires increased engine power.
Household chainsaws always have a low profile chain. Professional devices combine different variants, but always adhere to the fact that if the chain is with a large pitch, then its profile is low, and if the pitch is 0.325, the profile is made high.
Such variations make it possible to increase the cutting speed not in increments, but in the height of the profile (depth of cut). However, most professional felling tools focus on increasing the pitch rather than the height of the profile, arguing that the chainsaw in this version is more controllable.
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Some important points when choosing chains or chainsaws
There are other indicators that affect the performance of the tool and the specifics of the work.
- geometry of the cutting tooth (profile);
- number of cutting links;
- type of sharpening of the cutting edge of the link.
There are two types of cutting profile: chisel and chipper. The first option has a straight work surface and is more productive. The second type has a crescent shape and reduced performance. In maintenance, the chipper chain is easier, since it is easier to sharpen, and strict observance of sharpening angles is not required. Chisel options are more commonly used in 3/8 and 0.404” increments.
The number of cutting teeth is always determined by their ratio to the number of guides included in the saw bar. That is, the link with the cutting part has two guide links. If such a combination is not observed, this means that the chain of questionable production.
The type of sharpening of cutting profiles is regulated by the type of future work. Typically, a classic chainsaw is used for transverse cuts in wood and extremely rarely for longitudinal ones. In rare cases, chains come across with cutting links that have an orientation for longitudinal cuts.
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When purchasing a tool, you need to clearly understand the scope of its use and, depending on this, determine the desired chain step.
Chain links: a - cutting or cutter, b - locking.
Conditional types of use of chainsaws by private users:
- pruning branches in the garden, simple country work;
- individual construction, firewood, episodic felling of trees;
- frequent use (implying work for hire), harvesting very large volumes of firewood, operation in one's own workshop.
In the first option, a chainsaw is recommended that has a chain with a small (0.325”) pitch. This will allow you to get a light and maneuverable tool, easy to cut branches, including climbing ladders and tree branches. This equipment allows for simple dissolution of wood, and occasionally it is allowed to fell small trees.
The second option involves choosing a saw with a 3/8” pitch and a guide link thickness of at least 1.5 mm. Such saws make it easy to carry out the entire range of maintenance work on the site, a small workshop, and to prepare a supply of firewood for the winter.
The third option is to use 3/8" and 0.404" chains paired with a powerful motor, as the work list is for professional tool, while it is important to take into account the thickness of the guide link, it should be 1.6 or 2.0 mm. Steel for the manufacture of such chains is made taking into account possible overheating during the dissolution of wood without loss of hardness of the cutting edges of the links.
Interchangeability of chains is allowed only for the step size provided by the manufacturer. This is explained by the number of teeth of the drive sprocket, which is calculated only for a certain distance between the links. The chainsaw tire has a groove for a certain thickness of the guides, this should be taken into account when changing the chain.
It is not recommended to replace the drive sprocket with a larger pitch due to the mismatch between power and loads during the dissolution of wood. Weak motor will not develop required power for pulling cutting links through wood, which will lead to jamming or failure of the drive and clutch of the device.
The most versatile chain has a 3/8” pitch, which allows for versatile use, combined with a high cutting speed and a fairly accurate cut line, satisfactory fraying of wood fibers.
Buying a chainsaw headset for many turns into a real test.
How to measure and choose the pitch, size, chain length for a chainsaw, what exactly do you need to know about them?
Incorrectly selected accessories for the tool are a waste of money and time. Difficulties with choosing a tire for chainsaws primarily arise due to the fact that headset parameters are usually marked in inches. Therefore, users who are accustomed to the metric system do not always correctly calculate the required dimensions of parts. Experts point to typical mistakes when choosing a saw set for a tool and give recommendations on determining the optimal characteristics of components.
Chainsaw tires: dimensions
The data necessary to determine the characteristics of a suitable headset are indicated in the instructions for the tool. But that doesn't mean that you don't have to be aware of the issue. correct selection accessories. Protect yourself from buying the wrong headset, use the advice of experts in choosing a chainsaw tire. To characterize the dimensions of the part, the following parameters are taken into account:
- length in inches;
- groove width;
- chain pitch.
Among chainsaw users, tires ranging in size from 10 to 22 inches are considered the most popular. Often, tools of the same model are offered for sale, but with different length details. These features are indicated in the device passport. The slot width is also given in inches. Five sizes are especially common, some of them are 0.043, 0.050, 0.058. It is quite difficult to remember these data, therefore, for convenience, the parameters are often indicated in millimeters. Self-respecting sellers should be armed with a size chart in inches and millimeters. They will help you select the part that matches the required data. The chain pitch when calculating the tire parameters for a chainsaw is determined by the size of the driven sprocket. The most commonly used sizes are 0.325 and 3/8. Remember - the data for the circuit and the bus must match.
Important points when choosing a chainsaw tire
If you have a previously used part on hand, show it to the seller as a sample. It can be difficult for inexperienced users to correctly determine chainsaw bar length in inches, groove width, and chain pitch. Remember - the necessary data must be sought in the instructions that came with the tool, or on the part itself. When choosing a headset, do not forget to make sure that the tail of the chainsaw tire you are purchasing, as well as the position of the oil supply holes, match the sample. In any case, do not rush to buy a part if you are having a hard time identifying it. optimal performance, consult with professionals.
Technical parameters of saw chains
When choosing a chain for a chainsaw, you need to pay attention to several important characteristics:
- number of links;
- chain pitch;
- thickness of the leading link;
- purpose of use.
In addition, on our website you can choose a chain according to the saw model through the chain saw guide.
Number of chain links. Determined by the internal teeth of the chain.
Chain pitch- the distance between three successive rivets, divided by two.
Tables of sizes of saw chains and bars for chainsaws by model
This is a defining parameter, and depending on its value, all existing chains are divided into five groups with a step of 1/4'', 0.325'', 3/8'', 0.404'' and 3/4''.
1/4” (6.35 mm) pitch is typical for small chains mounted on low-power single-handed saws.
0.325'' (8.25mm) and 3/8'' (9.3mm) pitch chains are the most common options. More than 80% of saws produced worldwide are equipped with them.
0.404” (10.26mm) and 3/4” (19.05mm) pitches feature larger link chains with higher performance. For several decades, they completed saws Russian production, but now they are installed only on powerful felling saws and harvester equipment.
The larger the chain pitch, the larger the links that make it up and the higher its performance, but the wider the cut. More cutting resistance is required to overcome the increasing cutting resistance. powerful saw. Small pitch chains have other advantages - more teeth per unit length, smooth movement in the kerf and, consequently, reduced vibration, a cleaner cut.
Drive link thickness. During operation, the chain slides in the groove of the bar, and this sliding should be smooth, without hooks and at the same time without unnecessary “chatter”. The thickness of the shank and the thickness of the groove must strictly correspond to each other, which increases the reliability of the chain fit and eliminates the possibility of its "jumping off". All provided in five standard sizes:
- 1.1 mm (0.043’’) for low power saws
- 1.3 mm (0.050’’) household and semi-professional chains,
- 1.5 mm (0.058’’) powerful and productive saws,
- 1.6 mm (0.063’’) and 2.0 mm (0.080’’) highly professional saw blades.
Purpose of use imposes its own requirements on the circuits used. For example, when sawing hard and dirty wood, or when demolishing and building structures, it is better to use Picco Duro or Rapid Duro special carbide chains, which have carbide teeth or linings, giving them unsurpassed strength and durability of use. Some jobs simply cannot be done without their help.
It is also known that for longitudinal sawing of wood (along the fibers) it is desirable to use special chains. The main difference between longitudinal and transverse type chains is the angles of attack of the cutting links. For crosscut chains, they are 25-35 degrees. Rip chains (such as Stihl Picco Micro X chains) have sharper angles of 5 to 15 degrees.
The use of chains inconsistent with their purpose leads either to reduced performance or to increased "aggressiveness", strong vibration and additional load on the chainsaw engine.
Additional characteristics of the chain are the height of the profile and the depth of cut.
Profile height.
Chains are available in high and low profile depending on the height of the cutting edge above the plane of the guide bar. High profile chains are usually used in professional applications to obtain maximum sawing performance. Low-profile chains are installed on household and amateur class chainsaws, because. thanks to the increased bearing area of the cutting links and the reduced thickness of the sheared chips, they are safer.
Depth of cut- this is the size of the gap between the upper edge of the tooth and the kerf stop, which regulates the thickness of the chips. Most often there are samples with gaps of 0.025 inches (or 0.635 mm) and 0.030 inches (or 0.762 mm), less often - with gaps up to 0.07 inches (or 1.778 mm), the latter are intended for machine felling units.
Depth of cut largely determines sawing performance. The larger the gap, the higher the performance. The flip side of performance is vibration. So chains with a small depth of cut in the cut move softer, “twitch” less. Therefore, to balance vibration and performance, often large pitch chains are fitted with shallow cutting depths, and vice versa.
OREGON Co. major manufacturer and one of the major innovators in saw chain manufacturing. We believe that not only the quality of the tool, but also its competent selection is important for a perfectly executed job. Let's see what you need to pay attention to in this case in order to make a choice that will meet your needs.
Chain pitch
This is the distance between the axes of three adjacent rivets, divided by two. It should match the pitch on the saw's drive sprocket and on the sprocket in the nose of the bar.
Pitch is measured in inches, the most common values are:
“325 is one of the most popular options, often installed on household and semi-professional saws of low and medium power;
3/8 - comes in low profile for the most common light saws and just 3/8 for powerful professional saws;
“404 - used on professional saws with a capacity of at least 5.5 liters. with., it is not economically feasible to put on low-power saws.
To choose the right chain for the chainsaw, taking into account this factor, just read the instructions - it will indicate what step it is designed for. With the exception of some professional saws, most saws are designed with one specific step in mind.
chain saw chain
Leading links
They ensure the movement of the chain along the tire due to the engagement with the drive sprocket of the saw.
They measure the length of the chain: it is equal to the number of leading links in the ring. To determine it, it is enough to fold the ring in half, count the pairs of leading links and double the result. Also on the leading links is a marking by which you can determine the series of the product.
chain thickness
Measured at the drive link shank moving inside the bar groove and must match the thickness of the bar groove.
cutting links
They are responsible for cutting wood. They differ in shape, sharpening angle and thickness of chrome. The most commonly used types are:
Chisel (chisel, super). The most aggressive type of link, cuts quickly but requires frequent sharpening and wears out faster;
Received The cutting is smoother, sharpening is required much less frequently.
Connecting links
They retain lubrication and are responsible for the strength of the product.
Additional engineering solutions OREGON
Vibe-Ban - Suppresses vibrations, improves operator safety and speeds up cutting.
LubriWell - optimizes the distribution of lubricant along the length of the groove on the guide bar.
LubriLink - Reinforces connecting links and retains lubrication.
Witness Mark - simplifies maintenance. Her marks indicate optimal angle sharpening the horizontal edge of the cutter. Available on all chains with chisel cutters.
Main types
The 91 designates OREGON's low profile 3/8 pitch chain with 1.3mm drive link. This is the most demanded series from OREGON, its sales provide 70% of the market.
91P is the most popular a budget option, with a minimum of engineering functions;
91VXL - premium class, excellent value for money (equipped with all the above-mentioned special engineering solutions);
Multicut - designed to work in an abrasive environment;
SpeedCut (narrow kerf) - new for 2017, featuring increased cutting speed and smoothness;
PowerSharp is a unique self-sharpening option, an innovative development of OREGON. Now it is used primarily together with a heavy-duty 15-amp chain saw The CS1500 from OREGON is the only self-sharpening power saw in the world.
Table for chainsaw chains
Drive roller chains
Drive roller chains designed for power mechanical transmission of various machines and mechanisms. Of all the drive chains, they are the most widely used.
There are three main standards that regulate the parameters of drive roller chains - GOST 13568-97, adopted in Russia; ISO/R 606, the British standard adopted in European countries, and ANSI B29.1M, adopted in the USA. Chains of this type can be made collapsible, with a straight and curved contour of the plates, as well as with various types anti-corrosion coatings. The sizes of roller chains have full analogs among chains of the American and British standards.
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Regulations:
GOST 13568-97 Driving roller and sleeve chains.
International standards: ISO/R 606, ANSI B29.1M.
There are the following types of drive roller chains:
Single-row roller drive chains GOST 13568-97 (PR)
| Name of drive roller chain PR | Chain designation | Chain pitch | Chain roller diameter | Chain pin diameter | Chain shaft length | Inner plate width | Weight of one meter chain | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 606 | ANSI B29.1M | P | d1 | b1 | d2 | Lc | h2 | g | ||
| mm | kN/kgf | kg/m | ||||||||
| PR-8-4.6 | 05B-1 | — | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2,31 | 12 | 7,5 | 4,6/460 | 0,20 |
| PR-9.525-9.1 | 06B-1 | — | 9,525 | 6,35 | 5,72 | 3,28 | 17 | 8,5 | 9,1/910 | 0,45 |
| PR-12.7-10-1 | 82 | — | 12,7 | 7,75 | 2,4 | 3,66 | 10,5 | 10 | 10,0/1000 | 0,30 |
| PR-12.7-9 | 81 | — | 12,7 | 7,75 | 3,3 | 3,66 | 12 | 10 | 9,0/900 | 0,35 |
| PR-12.7-18.2-1 | — | — | 12,7 | 8,51 | 5,4 | 4,45 | 19 | 11,8 | 18,2/1820 | 0,65 |
| PR-12.7-18.2 | 08B-1 | — | 12,7 | 8,51 | 7,75 | 4,45 | 21 | 11,8 | 18,2/1820 | 0,75 |
| PR-15,875-23-1 | — | — | 15,875 | 10,16 | 6,48 | 5,08 | 20 | 14,8 | 23,0/2300 | 0,80 |
| PR-15,875-23 | 10B-1 | — | 15,875 | 10,16 | 9,65 | 5,08 | 24 | 14,8 | 23,0/2300 | 1,00 |
| PR-19.05-31.8 | 12A-1 | 60 | 19,05 | 11,91 | 12,7 | 5,94 | 33 | 18,2 | 31,8/3180 | 1,90 |
| PR-25,4-60 | 16A-1 | 80 | 25,4 | 15,88 | 15,88 | 7,92 | 39 | 24,2 | 60,0/6000 | 2,60 |
| PR-31,75-89 | 20A-1 | 100 | 31,75 | 19,05 | 19,05 | 9,53 | 46 | 30,2 | 89,0/8900 | 3,80 |
| PR-38.1-127 | 24A-1 | 120 | 38,1 | 22,23 | 25,4 | 11,1 | 58 | 36,2 | 127,0/12700 | 5,50 |
| PR-44.45-172.4 | 28A-1 | 140 | 44,45 | 25,4 | 25,4 | 12,7 | 62 | 42,4 | 172,4/17240 | 7,50 |
| PR-50.8-227 | 32A-1 | 160 | 50,8 | 28,58 | 31,75 | 14,27 | 72 | 48,3 | 227,0/22700 | 9,70 |
| PR-63.5-354 | 40A-1 | 200 | 63,5 | 39,68 | 38,1 | 19,84 | 89 | 60,4 | 354,0/35400 | 16,00 |
| PR-103.2-650 | — | — | 103,2 | 46 | 49 | 24 | 124 | 65 | 650,0/65000 | 28,50 |
PR-12.7-18.2-1
PR - drive roller GOST 13568-97
12.7 - chain pitch in mm
SPR12.7-18.2-1 - connecting link to the chain
PPR12.7-18.2-1 - transitional link to the chain
P2PR12.7-18.2-1 - double transitional link to the chain
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Double-row roller drive chains GOST 13568-97 (2PR)
| Name of drive roller chain 2PR | Chain designation | Chain pitch | Chain roller diameter | Width between inner plates | Chain pin diameter | Chain shaft length | Inner plate width | Weight of one meter chain | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 606 | ANSI B29.1M | P | d1 | b1 | d2 | Lc | h2 | g | ||
| mm | kN/kgf | kg/m | ||||||||
| 2PR-12.7-31.8 | 08B-2 | — | 12,7 | 8,51 | 7,75 | 4,45 | 35,0 | 11,8 | 31,8/3180 | 1,40 |
| 2PR-15.875-45.4 | 10B-2 | — | 15,875 | 10,16 | 9,65 | 5,08 | 41,0 | 14,8 | 45,4/4540 | 1,90 |
| 2PR-19.05-64 | 12A-2 | 60-2 | 19,05 | 11,91 | 12,7 | 5,94 | 53,4 | 18,2 | 64,0/6400 | 2,30 |
| 2PR-25.4-114 | 16A-2 | 80-2 | 25,4 | 15,88 | 15,88 | 7,92 | 68,0 | 24,2 | 114,0/11400 | 2,90 |
| 2PR-31.75-177 | 20A-2 | 100-2 | 31,75 | 19,05 | 19,05 | 9,53 | 82,0 | 30,2 | 177,0/17700 | 3,10 |
| 2PR-38.1-254 | 24A-2 | 120-2 | 38,1 | 22,23 | 25,4 | 11,1 | 104,0 | 36,2 | 254,0/25400 | 5,00 |
| 2PR-44,45-344 | 28A-2 | 140-2 | 44,45 | 25,4 | 25,4 | 12,7 | 110,0 | 48,87 | 14,40 | 7,30 |
| 2PR-50.8-453.6 | 32A-2 | 160-2 | 50,8 | 28,58 | 31,75 | 14,27 | 130,0 | 48,3 | 453,6/45360 | 11,00 |
Example symbol chains:2PR-31.75-177
2 - chain row GOST 13568-97
PR - drive roller
31.75 - chain pitch in mm
An example of a symbol for components:
C - 2PR - 31.75-177 - link connecting to the chain
P - 2PR - 31.75-177 - transitional link to the chain
P2 - 2PR - 31.75-177 - double transitional link to the chain
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Three-row roller drive chains GOST 13568-97 (3PR)
| Name of drive roller chain 3PR | Chain designation | Chain pitch | Chain roller diameter | Width between inner plates | Chain pin diameter | Chain shaft length | Inner plate width | Weight of one meter chain | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 606 | ANSI B29.1M | P | d1 | b1 | d2 | Lc | h2 | g | ||
| mm | kN/kgf | kg/m | ||||||||
| 3PR-12.7-45.4 | 08B-3 | — | 12,700 | 8,51 | 7,75 | 4,45 | 50,0 | 11,8 | 45,4/4540 | 2,00 |
| 3PR-15.875-68.1 | 10B-3 | — | 15,875 | 10,16 | 9,65 | 5,08 | 57,0 | 14,8 | 68,1/6810 | 2,80 |
| 3PR-19.05-96 | 12A-3 | 60-3 | 19,050 | 11,91 | 12,7 | 5,94 | 76,2 | 18,2 | 96,0/9600 | 4,30 |
| 3PR-25.4-171 | 16A-3 | 80-3 | 25,400 | 15,88 | 15,88 | 7,92 | 98,0 | 24,2 | 171,0/17100 | 7,50 |
| 3PR-31.75-265.5 | 20A-3 | 100-3 | 31,750 | 19,05 | 19,05 | 9,53 | 120,0 | 30,2 | 265,5/26550 | 11,00 |
| 3PR-38.1-381 | 24A-3 | 120-3 | 38,100 | 22,23 | 25,4 | 11,1 | 150,0 | 36,2 | 381,0/38100 | 16,50 |
| 3PR-44.45-517.2 | 28A-3 | 140-3 | 44,450 | 25,4 | 25,4 | 12,7 | 160,0 | 42,4 | 517,2/51720 | 21,70 |
| 3PR-50.8-680.4 | 32A-3 | 160-3 | 50,800 | 28,58 | 31,75 | 14,27 | 190,0 | 48,3 | 680,4/68040 | 28,30 |
An example of a chain symbol:3PR-38.1-381
3 - chain row GOST 13568-97
PR - drive roller
38.1 - chain pitch in mm
An example of a symbol for components:
S-3PR - 38.1 - 381 - link connecting to the chain
P - 3PR - 38.1 - 381 - link transition to the chain
P2 - 3PR - 38.1 - 381 - double transitional link to the chain
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Four-row roller drive chains GOST 13568-97 (4PR)
| Name of drive roller chain 4PR | Chain designation | Chain pitch | Chain roller diameter | Width between inner plates | Chain pin diameter | Chain shaft length | Inner plate width | Weight of one meter chain | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 606 | ANSI B29.1M | P | d1 | b1 | d2 | Lc | h2 | g | ||
| mm | kN/kgf | kg/m | ||||||||
| 4PR-19.05-128 | 12A-4 | 60-4 | 19,05 | 11,91 | 12,7 | 5,94 | 101,9 | 18,2 | 128/12800 | 5,75 |
| 4PR-19.05-155* | — | — | 19,05 | 11,91 | 12,7 | 5,94 | 101,9 | 18,2 | 155/15500 | 6,80 |
| 4PR-25.4-228 | 16A-4 | 80-4 | 25,40 | 15,88 | 15,88 | 7,92 | 129,9 | 24,2 | 228/22800 | 10,90 |
| 4PR-31.75-355 | 20A-4 | 100-4 | 31,75 | 19,05 | 19,05 | 9,53 | 157,5 | 30,2 | 355/35500 | 14,70 |
| 4PR-38.1-508 | 24A-4 | 120-4 | 38,10 | 22,23 | 25,4 | 11,1 | 197,1 | 36,2 | 508/50800 | 22,00 |
| 4PR-50.8-900 | 32A-4 | 160-4 | 50,80 | 28,58 | 31,75 | 14,27 | 252,3 | 48,3 | 900/90000 | 38,00 |
An example of a chain symbol:4PR-50.8-900
4 - chain row GOST 13568-97
PR - drive roller
50.8 - chain pitch in mm
An example of a symbol for components:
S-4PR - 50.8 - 900 - link connecting to the chain
P-4PR - 50.8 - 900 - transitional link to the chain
P2-4PR - 50.8 - 900 - double transitional link to the chain
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Drive roller chains with curved plates GOST 13568-97 (PRI)
To increase wear resistance, chains are made with curved plates.
What is the best chain to put on a chainsaw
Curved plate drive roller chain can only have an odd number of links.
| The name of the drive roller chain with curved links (PRI) | Chain pitch | Chain roller diameter | Width between plates | Chain pin diameter | Chain shaft length | Chain plate width | Weight of 1 meter chain | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P | d1 | b1 | d2 | Lc | h2 | mm | Qmin | q | |
| mm | kN/kgf | kg/m | |||||||
| PRI-78.1-360 | 78,1 | 33,3 | 38,10 | 17,15 | 102 | 45,5 | 51,0 | 360/36000 | 14,5 |
| PRI-78.1-400 | 78,1 | 40 | 38,10 | 19 | 102 | 56 | 51,0 | 400/40000 | 19,8 |
| PRI-103.2-650 | 103,2 | 46 | 49,00 | 24 | 135 | 60 | 73,0 | 650/65000 | 28,8 |
| PRI-140-1200 | 140 | 65 | 80,00 | 36 | 182 | 90 | 94,0 | 1200/120000 | 63 |
An example of a chain symbol:PRI-103.2-650
DRIVE - driven roller with curved plates
103.2 - chain pitch in mm
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Long link roller drive chains GOST 13568-75 (PRD)
Drive roller long link chains are designed for use in gears with large center distances and in gears with low peripheral speeds and large diameter sprockets. Long-link chains are designed on the basis of PR drive roller chains with doubled pitch. The working load of this type of chain is lower than that of conventional roller chains of the same pitch.
| Name of drive roller chain PRD | Chain designation | Chain pitch | Chain roller diameter | Width between inner plates | Chain pin diameter | Chain shaft length | Inner plate width | Weight of one meter chain | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 606 | ANSI B29.1M | P | d1 | b1 | d2 | Lc | h2 | g | ||
| mm | kN/kgf | kg/m | ||||||||
| PRD-31.75-2300 | 210V | — | 31,75 | 10,16 | 9,65 | 5,08 | 24 | 14,8 | 23,0/2300 | 0,6 |
| PRD-38-3000 | — | — | 38 | 15,88 | 22 | 7,92 | 42 | 21,3 | 30,0/3000 | 1,87 |
| PRD-38-4000 | — | — | 38,00 | 15,88 | 22 | 7,92 | 47,0 | 21,3 | 40,0/4000 | 2,1 |
| PRD-50.8-6000 | 216A | 2080 | 50,80 | 15,88 | 15,88 | 7,92 | 39,0 | 24,2 | 60,0/6000 | 1,9 |
| PRD-63.5-8900 | 220A | 2100 | 63,50 | 19,05 | 19,05 | 9,53 | 46,0 | 30,2 | 89,0/8900 | 2,6 |
| PRD-76.2-12700 | 224A | 2120 | 76,20 | 22,23 | 25,4 | 11,1 | 57,0 | 36,2 | 127,0/12700 | 3,8 |
An example of a chain symbol:PRD-38-4000
GOST 13568-75
PRD - drive roller long link
38.0 - chain pitch in mm
Examples of symbols for components:
SPRD38,0-4000 - connecting link to the chain
PPRD38,1-4000 - transitional link to the chain
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