Sprockets are very important mechanical components. As the most common part used in conjunction with sprockets, chains can be explained as a series of joined (typically metallic) links, flexible in mere one direction and used to transfer power in sprockets machinery through enmeshing with the machine’s sprockets. Industrial manufacturing is among the more common industries that benefit from sprockets. However, additional industries include auto, for power transmitting applications; agriculture and forestry, in various types of equipment; film and paper, for film transportation mechanisms within move projectors and cameras; and electronics, for computer printers and electric motors.
Sprockets are produced from a wide selection of materials: stainless, which works best for high temperature and food processing applications; cast iron, most often used with flat wire conveyor belts; and plastics such as nylon, polyethylene and polyurethane, which allow for continuous use at high temperatures.
Sprockets are formed in quite similar way as gears , through cutting techniques such as hobbing, so that they are able withstand harsh and repetitive use. Sprocket hobbing is the process of utilizing a broaching machine to cut the grooves, referred to as teeth, right into a component. Capable of trimming sprockets with different numbers and different sizes of tooth, sprocket hobbing is used to make tooth for many different types of sprockets. Additional machining processes are used, such as drilling, in order to ensure the best tooth and closest tolerances. Secondary program including high temperature treating and hands finishing can be utilized in order to provide additional power and quality. Often cut in both English and metric sizes, there are many different types of sprockets available including idler, roller chain, split, timing belt and film.
Idler sprockets are used to prevent whipping action and also to help obtain the best chain stress in power transmissions. Also useful in power transmitting, roller chain sprockets are light-weight, durable and frequently used for precision equipment components. Split sprockets, on the other hand, are useful in applications needing detachment without needing to dismantle machinery. Timing belt sprockets are also known as synchronous sprockets and provide timed, nonslip power transmission. Film sprockets make reference to the kind of sprocket used to go film through various devices by engaging with holes located along the two sides of the film strip.

If you need a non-slippage remedy that can run at high speeds, search no further then Applied. We bring sprockets in a variety of sizes and styles to meet your unique application needs. Shop from conveyor, engineering class, cable chain or bushed style sprockets supplemented by parts like weld-on hubs and guideline rings and much more.