chain tensioner

[abhishek502]

hello guys,
we are designing an electric car first time for Formula Student U.K.
we are using 428 chain and calculated back tension to be around 25 N and our drive train is at 28.48 degree from horizontal.
Do we actually need a chain tensioner and if so then help me out with its initial calculations.

[billywight]

This is a far more practical thing than theoretical; there are no equations to solve that tell you whether you need a chain tensioner or not.

You certainly need either a tensioner (roller, pulley, etc.), or much preferably, a method of adjusting chain tension.

[abhishek502]

thanks for replying....

Without knowing any calculations and our requirement how should we select a tensioner???

[Will M]

You could start with a pro/con list of the basic methods and styles of chain tensioning and chain tension adjustment.
Make a list of requirements and priorities and pick the method/style that works best for you.

Here is a link to a list of decision making tools.
http://www.43folders.com/2005/...ined-decision-making (http://www.43folders.com/2005/09/01/eight-tools-for-streamlined-decision-making)


-William

[Owen Thomas]

I agree with Billy, you will likely need some method to tension your chain. Not because you can't figure out how long your chain needs to be (assuming you have pitch, number of teeth, distance btwn sprockets etc), but because your chain will stretch and you will have slack. This is practically unavoidable.