One of the top producers of roller chains, conveyor chains, peg chains, stainless steel chains, extended pin/rod chains, rubber top chains, and biplanar chains is Merit Engineering Work, which was founded in 1975.
Additionally, we can create specialized chains based on your sample or drawing.
Today, Merit Engineering Work is a well-known brand with a stellar reputation for providing the highest level of client satisfaction. We have never sacrificed the caliber of the services we offer our clients.
Leaf Chain
A Leaf Chain is a kind of rollerless chain used mostly in material handling and lifting machinery such as hoists and forklifts. It is intended for high-load, low-speed applications. It has a high tensile strength because of the interlaced plates that are held together by pins. Common varieties with different pin diameters and plate thicknesses are the AL, BL, and LL series.
Types of Leaf Chain :
Forklifts, hoists, and other lifting apparatuses are among the material handling applications that frequently use leaf chains. They are renowned for their capacity to support large loads, compact design, and great tensile strength.
AL Series (American Light Duty) : Applications for light-duty Lower load capacity due to fewer plates For instance, AL-622
BL Series (American Heavy Duty) : Heavy-Duty use of forklifts. more powerful than AL. For instance, BL-846
BL Series (American Heavy Duty) : Light-duty chain used in European machinery that complies with DIN standards
BL Series (American Heavy Duty) : For cranes and heavy lifting apparatus. Exceptional tensile strength
EL Series (Extended Link Chain) : Greater pitch between links utilized in particular lifting applications
Multiple-Strand Leaf Chain : For instance, 4x4, 6x6, and 8x8 arrangements More plates for a greater load-bearing capacity
Double Pitch Leaf Chain : For slower-speed applications, a longer pitch Infrequent articulation
High Fatigue Leaf Chain : Increased resilience to fatigue Perfect for heavy lifting
Corrosion-Resistant Leaf Chain : Coated or stainless steel for chemical or marine conditions
Plastic-Coated Leaf Chain : Defense against deterioration or pollution utilized in the pharmaceutical and culinary industries
Nickel-Plated Leaf Chain : Aesthetically pleasing and resistant to corrosion utilized in hygienic settings
Self-Lubricating Leaf Chain : Lubrication included in to minimize maintenance Perfect for gear that is difficult to reach
Custom Engineered Leaf Chain : Customized to meet certain industry requirements may consist of unique materials, forms, or pitches.
Maintenance of Leaf Chain :
Regular lubrication and examination for wear, elongation, and pin damage are necessary for maintaining leaf chains. To avoid an early failure, keep the chain clean and tensioned correctly. To guarantee safe and effective operation, especially in lifting or high-load applications, replace worn components as soon as possible.
Guidelines and tips for maintaining Leaf Chain :
Yes! This is a clear and useful list of leaf chain maintenance instructions and recommendations that can be used for training, manuals, or everyday operations:
Regular Lubrication : Use high-quality chain lubricant to minimize friction and wear. Lubricate at regular intervals, especially in high-dust or high-load environments.
Inspect for Wear and Elongation : Periodically measure chain elongation. Replace the chain if it exceeds the manufacturer's elongation limit (typically 2–3%).
Check for Pin and Link Damage : Look for signs of cracking, bending, or wear on pins and plates. Damaged components should be replaced immediately.
Keep the Chain Clean : Remove dirt, dust, and old lubricant using a safe degreaser. Avoid pressure washing, as it may force water into the joints.
Maintain Correct Tension : Ensure the chain is neither too tight nor too loose. Proper tension reduces stress and increases service life.
Avoid Overloading : Never exceed the rated working load of the chain. Overloading causes stretching, fatigue, and eventual failure.
Use Corrosion Protection : In humid or chemical environments, apply rust-preventive treatments or use corrosion-resistant chains.
Check Chain Alignment : Ensure the chain runs straight and properly aligned with sprockets or pulleys. Misalignment causes uneven wear.
Monitor for Unusual Noises : Squeaking, grinding, or snapping sounds may indicate lack of lubrication or internal damage.
Replace Sprockets as Needed : Worn sprockets can prematurely damage new chains. Replace both if either is showing significant wear.
Use Protective Guards : Covers and shields help prevent contamination from dust or debris.
Keep Maintenance Records : Track inspections, lubrication, and replacements. Helps anticipate replacements and plan maintenance.
Use Genuine Parts : Always use manufacturer-approved leaf chain and components to maintain safety and performance.
Store Chains Properly : Keep unused chains in a dry, clean environment to prevent rust and contamination.
Leaf Chain application industries :
Industries requiring strong lifting and load handling frequently use leaf chains. Material handling, construction equipment, forklifts, mining, automobile manufacture, agricultural gear, and warehouse systems are examples of common applications where compact design and high tensile strength are critical for effective operation.
Material Handling Industry : Used in forklifts, hoists, and conveyors for lifting and moving heavy loads.
Construction Industry : Found in cranes, lifts, and construction hoists for robust vertical lifting.
Automotive Industry : Used in assembly lines, robotic lifts, and manufacturing equipment.
Mining Industry: Operates in heavy-duty equipment and mine shaft hoisting systems.
Agricultural Machinery : Found in seeders, balers, and other equipment requiring lifting or adjusting.
Warehousing & Logistics : Employed in automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and pallet handlers.
Elevator and Escalator Industry : Used in counterweight and lifting mechanisms.
Shipbuilding & Marine : Suitable for winches, hoists, and lifting equipment in dockyards.
Steel & Metal Processing : In lifting tables, stackers, and machinery for heavy metal handling.
Packaging Industry : Used in lifting platforms and automated packing systems.
Textile Industry : In heavy-duty looms or fabric handling equipment.
Railway and Transport : Found in heavy maintenance equipment and lifting jacks.