The leaf chain part number system explains why leaf chain part numbers are not arbitrary. The different combinations of letters and numbers represent the type of leaf chain and describe the pitch as well as the leaf chain lacing. With practice, these dimensions can be gleaned from the part number instantly.
Series
The initial two letters in the leaf chain part number system refer to the leaf chain series – for example, AL, EL-LL and BL-LH series leaf chains.
Series AL: AL series (American Light) leaf chain, manufactured to the ANSI B29.9 standard, is constructed from American standard roller chain components. AL series leaf chain is lightweight leaf chain used for light load lifting applications and machine tools.
Series EL-LL: EL-LL series (European Light – Leaf Light) leaf chain, manufactured according to ISO4347, DIN8152 and NFE26107, is also constructed from roller chain components but to European standard. Like AL series leaf chain, EL-LL series leaf chain is a lightweight leaf chain used for light load lifting applications and machine tools.
Series BL-LH: BL-LH series (Leaf Heavy) leaf chain, manufactured according to ISO4347, DIN8152, ANSI B29.8 and NFE26107, is the only leaf chain that is constructed from specific leaf chain components. BL-LH series leaf chain is heavier duty leaf chain than AL and EL-LL series and so is the most common leaf chain used for forklift trucks, lifting and materials handling equipment.
Pitch
The first one or two digits (depending on whether the part number has three of four digits) refers to the pitch of the leaf chain and varies according to the series.
AL series leaf chain is measured in 8ths of an inch – but only the numerator of the fraction is given. For example, 4 represents 4/8” which can be reduced to ½” and 10 represents 10/8” which can be reduced to 1 ¼”.
EL-LL and BL-LL series leaf chain is measured in both 8ths and 16ths of an inch. For example, BL12 represents 12/8” and LL24 represents 24/16” which can both be reduced to 1 ½”.
The metric pitch can then be found by dividing the numerator by the denominator and multiplying by 25.4 as 1 inch is equal to 25.4 mm.
Examples
AL1066
From the part number, we can tell that:
- this is a lightweight American standard leaf chain made from roller chain components.
- the pitch is 10/8” which can be expressed as 1 ¼” or 31.75mm.
- it is constructed from 6 inner plates, 4 intermediate plates and 2 outer plates.
EL544-LL1044
From the part number, we can tell that
- this a lightweight European standard leaf chain made from roller chain components.
- the pitch is 5/8” or 10/16” which can also be expressed as 15.875mm.
- it is constructed from 4 inner plates, 2 intermediate plates and 2 outer plates.
BL623-LH1223
From the part number, we can tell that
- this is a sturdy leaf chain made from specific leaf chain components.
- the pitch is 6/8” or 12/16” which can be expressed as ¾” or 19.05mm.
- it is constructed from 3 inner plates and 2 outer plates.
