Carbon Steel Roller Chains

Carbon Steel Roller Chains for Heavy-Duty Industrial Applications

Carbon steel is widely used in industrial manufacturing due to its mechanical strength, formability, and cost-efficiency. Among its many applications, roller chains stand out as critical components in power transmission systems.

These chains are designed to perform under high loads, ensuring reliable operation across industries such as agriculture, construction, transportation, and manufacturing. Their standardized dimensions (such as ANSI) make them compatible with a wide range of equipment.

At PGN Bearings, we offer a durable selection of carbon steel roller chains, available in multiple sizes and specifications to meet the demands of heavy-duty operations.

What Is Carbon Steel and Why Is It Used in Chains?

Carbon steel is an iron-carbon alloy known for its mechanical strength, which increases with the amount of carbon in the composition. Higher carbon content means greater hardness and load-bearing capacity, although it slightly reduces ductility.

In industrial settings, carbon steel is valued for its combination of structural strength, machinability, and cost-effectiveness. These traits make it ideal for producing parts exposed to continuous friction and repetitive stress—such as roller chains.

In mechanical power transmission, chains must deliver consistent performance under high loads, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations. Carbon steel responds well to these demands, providing durability and operational reliability over time.

Because it conforms to standards like ANSI, carbon steel roller chains are also highly compatible with a wide range of industrial equipment, making installation and maintenance easier and more efficient.

How Carbon Steel Roller Chains Work

Carbon steel roller chains are mechanical components designed to transmit power and motion between rotating parts in industrial systems. They operate by engaging the rollers with the teeth of sprockets, forming a synchronized and efficient drive mechanism.

Each chain consists of interconnected links with rollers that rotate around fixed pins. This design allows for smooth movement, minimizing friction and wear—even during continuous operation. Carbon steel provides the necessary strength to handle impact, vibration, and high loads.

These chains are manufactured according to global standards like ANSI (American National Standards Institute), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of industrial machinery. This standardization makes replacements and maintenance more straightforward.

Due to their strength and reliability, carbon steel roller chains are ideal for applications that demand precise motion, low maintenance, and long-lasting performance.

Common Applications of Carbon Steel Chains

Carbon steel roller chains are widely used in industrial applications that demand high load capacity, continuous operation, and reliable performance. Their versatility and strength make them indispensable in many sectors.

Agricultural Equipment and Tractors

In farming machinery such as harvesters and tractors, these chains transmit power between moving parts. They perform well in dusty, muddy, and high-temperature environments, ensuring smooth operation in the field.

Automotive Industry and Assembly Lines

In the automotive sector, carbon steel chains are used in production lines and automation systems that require durability and precision. Their ANSI standardization allows seamless integration into various transport and assembly setups.

Construction and Heavy Machinery 

For construction and infrastructure projects, these chains power heavy-duty machines like excavators and cranes. They are designed to handle high impact and mechanical stress under extreme conditions.

Conveyor and Material Handling Systems

Carbon steel chains are also key in conveyor belts and industrial material handling systems. They ensure continuous movement of components, products, and materials across factories, warehouses, and distribution centers.

Benefits of PGN Carbon Steel Roller Chains

PGN’s carbon steel roller chains are designed to deliver high performance in demanding industrial environments. They combine mechanical strength with ease of installation and maintenance, supporting a wide range of applications efficiently.

High tensile strength and long service life

Made from industrial-grade carbon steel, these chains handle high loads and continuous operation cycles. Their elevated tensile strength reduces the risk of failure and ensures extended durability under heavy use.

Reliable performance under tough conditions

PGN chains maintain consistent performance even in harsh conditions like vibration, dust, humidity, or temperature fluctuations. This makes them ideal for agriculture, mining, logistics, and heavy construction sectors.

Easy installation with free connecting links

All models include free connecting links, simplifying installation and replacement. This minimizes equipment downtime and improves operational efficiency.

In addition to these advantages, all chains meet ANSI standards, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of industrial machinery.

Available Carbon Steel Chain Models

PGN offers a robust selection of ANSI-standard carbon steel roller chains, engineered to meet varying load capacities and industrial needs. 

Each model includes 10 ft or 50 ft lengths and free connecting links for easy installation and upkeep.

• ANSI #35 – lightweight for small drives

• ANSI #40 – suitable for light conveyor systems

• ANSI #80 – versatile choice for general industrial use

• ANSI #80H – heavy-duty, built for tougher tasks
  
  

ANSI #35

• Pitch: 0.375 in (9.525 mm)

• Roller diameter: 0.20 in (5.08 mm)

• Width between plates: 0.188 in (4.77 mm)

• Tensile strength: up to 7.90 kN (1,795 lb)

• Weight: 0.33 kg/m

• Ideal for light-duty applications such as industrial bicycles or small mechanical systems.

ANSI #40

• Pitch: 0.5 in (12.7 mm)

• Roller diameter: 0.313 in (7.95 mm)

• Width between plates: 0.310 in (7.85 mm)

• Tensile strength: approx. 17.5 kN (3,205 lb)

• Weight: 0.62 kg/m
  A versatile choice for light conveyors and material handling.
  
  

ANSI #80

• Pitch: 1.0 in (25.4 mm)

• Roller diameter: 0.625 in (15.88 mm)

• Width between plates: 0.620 in (15.75 mm)

• Tensile strength: 69.4 kN (12,886 lb)

• Weight: 2.6 kg/m

• Ideal for industrial line applications where strength and endurance are critical.
  
  

ANSI #80H (Heavy Duty)

• Pitch: 1.0 in (25.4 mm)

• Roller diameter: 0.625 in (15.88 mm)

• Width between plates: 0.620 in (15.75 mm)

• Tensile strength: 71.4 kN (12,886 lb)

• Reinforced plates and pins for harsher use environments, ensuring high durability.
  
  

Why Choose PGN Bearings for Carbon Steel Chains?

When it comes to industrial chains, it’s not just about strength. You need something that fits right, holds up under pressure, and is easy to replace when the time comes.

At PGN, our carbon steel roller chains are built to ANSI standards, so you can count on proper fit and reliable performance across different machines. Every chain is tested for quality and built to keep up with demanding environments—whether it's for conveyors, tractors, or heavy-duty equipment.

We also keep stock ready to ship from our Miami location, and our team knows what works in real industrial settings. That means less downtime and faster solutions when you need them.

That’s why so many professionals trust PGN. We keep it simple: chains that perform, fit right, and show up when you need them.

Frequently Asked Questions about Carbon Steel Chains

1. What is a carbon steel roller chain?

It’s a mechanical component used for power transmission in industrial systems. It consists of linked rollers and pins that engage with sprockets, providing controlled movement between components. Carbon steel ensures strength and stability.

2. What’s the difference between carbon steel and stainless steel chains?

Carbon steel offers higher mechanical strength and is more cost-efficient, but is more prone to rust. Stainless steel resists corrosion better and is ideal for wet or chemical environments.

3. Where are carbon steel chains commonly used?

They’re used in agricultural machinery, conveyor belts, assembly lines, forklifts, cranes, and construction equipment.

4. How do I choose the right ANSI chain model?

Check your current chain’s specs (pitch, roller diameter, inner plate width) and compare them with available models. Examples:

• ANSI #35 – Lightweight and compact (100ft)

• ANSI #40 – General-purpose, light-duty (100ft)

• ANSI #80 – Mid-range, reliable strength (10ft)

• ANSI #80H – Reinforced for tough conditions (50ft)

5. Do PGN chains include connecting links?

Yes. Every model comes with free connecting links for easy setup or replacement.

6. What are the dimensions of PGN’s ANSI #40 chain?

It has a 0.5” pitch, 0.313” roller diameter, and 0.310” plate width. Full specs here.

7. How should I maintain carbon steel chains?

• Lubricate regularly

• Inspect for wear and tension

• Protect from moisture and debris

• Avoid overloading or misalignment

8. Are PGN chains suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, but regular maintenance and lubrication are essential. In wet or corrosive environments, covers or protective coatings are recommended.

9. Can I use ANSI #80 chains in tractors?

Absolutely. The ANSI #80 chain is a strong fit for mid-size agricultural equipment.

10. How does #80H differ from #80?

The #80H version has thicker plates for better impact resistance. It’s better suited for heavy-duty machinery. Learn more here.

11. How long do carbon steel chains last?

With proper use and maintenance, they can operate for thousands of hours. Lifespan varies depending on conditions.

12. Are PGN chains available for immediate shipping?

Yes. Products are in stock and ship from our Miami, FL location. Delivery time depends on your region.

13. Do you offer custom lengths?

Chains are sold in standard ANSI lengths (typically 10ft or 100ft), but they can be cut as needed. Each comes with a free connecting link.

14. Where can I browse all carbon steel chain options?

You can explore the full selection on our carbon steel chain collection page.