Re: Timing Pulleys - Chain & sprockets?

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "rawen2" <rawen2@y...> wrote:

> Mark,
> I've wondered the same thing.
> What's the downside, if any, to using small chain & sprockets vs.
> using toothed belts and pulleys? Backlash? Cost? I'm sure

chains

> would make more noise.
> I saw a picture of a router table a while back that drove the

gantry

> with an open-ended stationary roller chain looped between two

idler

> sprockets and the drive sprocket. All three sprockets were

mounted

> on the gantry and the chain was stretched along the length of the
> table.
> Would appreciate hearing from anyone who's used a setup like

this.

> I've never heard of or seen the X & Y motors on a mill driving the
> leadscrews with chain. I suppose that should give me a clue but I
> still wonder....
> Ralph Wenzl
>
>
> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, Markwayne <markwayne@m...>
> wrote:
> > Would it be nuts to use roller chain and sprockets in small

sizes,

> like
> > 10 or 20.
> >
> > Mark
> >

I dont think backlash would be a problem, assuming its kept tight.
But belts are usually a better idea than chains for power
transmission. Belts should last longer, run quiter and dont require
frequent lubrication and adjustment for wear. I think your best bet
would be to head over to www.sdp-si.com and pick up some timing
belts and pulleys. I suppose it could work if you got them dirt
cheap though. Good luck.

Mark