The chain is the key element of any chainsaw. From type cutting tool installed on the unit, the quality and speed of work when sawing wood depends. For novice chainsaw users, choosing a saw chain seems like a complicated process, since you need to know what types of this part there are, its characteristics, etc. This article will cover the main factors to consider when choosing a good chainsaw chain.
Those who have dealt with sawing wood know that it can be sawed either along the grain or across it. Based on this, they issue different types chainsaw chains: for cross or longitudinal cutting wood In both cases, the difference in material resistance will be significantly different. For longitudinal sawing, the teeth are sharpened at an angle from 5 to 15°. Cross cutting requires sharpening the tool at an angle of 25-35°. The figure below shows how the tooth sharpening angle is determined.
What type of saw element is can be found out from the markings on it; in addition, the sharpening angle is determined visually.
Chains for rip sawing are used extremely rarely, because it is much easier to unravel the workpiece on a circular machine. Due to low demand, manufacturers of this tool do not particularly improve it, and it is quite difficult to find a chain for rip sawing on sale. Most chainsaw buyers choose a tool with a cross-cut type, and it is the most popular among both professionals and home craftsmen. But, before choosing a chain for a chainsaw, you should study the main parameters that affect the performance and quality of the tool.
Existing step sizes
Chain pitch is a key parameter that requires special attention when choosing a cutting element for a chainsaw. It is measured in inches and is defined as the gap between the cutting links or the gap between the three rivets of the saw element. The following image clearly illustrates how chain pitch is determined.
Each saw has an individual chain pitch.
It is worth noting that the pro-class tool works with any type of circuit.
Chains with a certain pitch are always intended for units of a certain power, taking into account torque. Reducing the pitch not only reduces the performance of the device, but also reduces the load on the engine. Conversely, with a large step, the productivity of the device increases, but more power is required.
Moreover, there is such a thing as “aggressiveness” of the unit. IN in this case This means ease of control. The larger the step, the more force the teeth “tear” the wood. In addition, due to the large size of the cutting links, the width of the cut also increases, which means that the operator will need to make more effort to hold the device in his hands. Based on the above, it is not worth using a chain with a large pitch on a low-power unit, since this can render the device unusable.
0.325" pitch
This is the minimum step value, but nevertheless most common. Saw elements with this pitch are usually installed on amateur and semi-professional units that have low power - in the range of 3-3.5 hp. This is enough to easily cut branches, fell thin trees, and perform small construction works. The 0.325-inch pitch chain operates smoothly, vibration-free, does not “rip” wood, does not overload the engine or fatigue the operator.
Pitch 0.375 or 3/8
The marking may look like decimal or ordinary. There is no difference between these notations: three divided by eight equals 0.375. The common fraction in the marking is intended to eliminate confusion between the numbers 0.375 and 0.325.
For this reason, there are times when it is difficult to find an element with a pitch of 0.375 inches on sale. If so, try looking for the same part marked 3/8.
These chains are installed on more powerful units - those with 4 hp. These saw blades can be used to cut down trees of medium diameter. Chains with a pitch of 3/8 inches are installed on semi-professional chainsaws and pro-class units.
Step 0.404
Saws with this pitch are installed only on professional units with a power of at least 5.5 hp. A saw with a pitch of 0.404 inches can cut down trees of any thickness, and the units for this cutting element have a large torque, which greatly facilitates human work.
It is important to know that the chain pitch always corresponds asterisk pitch, both slave and leader. It follows from this that if the documentation for the device indicates that it works with a chain with a pitch of 0.404, then you should not put a chain on a chainsaw with a pitch of 3/8. Before installing a chain with a different pitch, it is necessary to purchase a complete kit, including both the bar and both sprockets: drive and driven.
In addition to the above pitch values, there are two more: these are 1⁄4 (0.25) inches and 3⁄4 (0.75) inches. Saws with this pitch are not very popular among both professionals and home craftsmen.
Thickness of the leading link (tail)
This parameter is the second most important when choosing a saw element. You should know that different brands chainsaw tires will vary in width. The drive links are also designed only for a certain type of tire.
Drive links come in the following sizes.
- 0.043” or 1.1 mm. This is the smallest leading link. It is usually installed in miniature circuits, which are intended for “weak” household units not intended for heavy loads.
- 0.05” or 1.3 mm. Although the difference with the previous example is insignificant, the cutting element is designed for more noticeable loads. Chains with a 1.3 mm link are most common among owners of household and semi-professional chainsaws; they are light in weight and quite reliable.
- 0.058” or 1.5 mm. This type of saw is no less popular than the previous one, but is no longer used only in semi-professional tools, but also in pro-class devices.
- 0.063” or 1.6 mm. Chains with such a tail thickness are more durable and are only used on tools for professionals.
- 0.08” or 2 mm. This size is the final size among the types of drive links. The chain is designed for long work and serious loads. It is not difficult to guess that the element is used only on highly professional chainsaws with high power.
As a result, the greater the thickness of the drive link, the stronger and better the chain, and the greater the load it can withstand. But when choosing a cutting element, you need to check the instructions for the device, which indicate what size tire can be installed on it.
Cutting depth and profile height
The depth of cut depends on how high the chain profile is. The higher the profile, the more the chain “bites” into the material, and as a result, the performance of the tool increases. With a low profile, thinner chips are removed and the chain does not sink as deeply into the material. Typically, the depth is adjusted by grinding off the stops that are located on each cutter.
The following profile sizes are available:
- high profile - 0.03” (0.762 mm);
- low profile - 0.025” (0.635 mm).
This information can be found in the documentation that came with your chainsaw. These types of profiles are installed on amateur and professional units. But you should know that professional-class tools cannot always be equipped with high-profile chains, and household tools are always equipped with low-profile cutting elements.
High profile chains- these are the most productive elements, which means they have increased “aggressiveness” and, in addition, noticeable vibration. The latter significantly reduces labor productivity, as it does not allow working with the unit for a long time. Therefore, manufacturers have found a middle ground: with a large pitch, a chain with a low profile is made, and vice versa, if the pitch is smaller, then the profile is made high. These changes remove as much as possible everything side effects, the unit begins to work with less “aggressiveness” and normal performance.
It’s hard to say which profiles are better. When choosing, you should always focus on the expected working conditions, the hardness or viscosity of the wood, etc.
The cutting links have 2 types of profile.
Tire size
In addition to the thickness of the tire, which was mentioned above, when choosing a chainsaw, one more parameter should be taken into account - the length of the tire. It is measured in millimeters or inches. The following tire sizes are often used: 11″, 12″, 13″, 14″, 15″, 16″, 18″, 20″, 21″, 22″.
For simple work, for example, cutting branches, cutting thin boards, tires can be used small sizes- 11 or 13 inches. The chain on such tires accelerates to high speeds, which has a good effect on performance. The most universal tire sizes are considered to be in the range of 14-16 inches. In addition to using the unit as a lopper, a chainsaw can be used when preparing firewood (sawing thin logs). To saw thick log, install 18-22 inch tires. They are usually used on semi-professional and more powerful professional chainsaws.
No need to install the tire bigger size, than indicated in the passport for the unit, since this will inevitably lead to an increase in the load on the engine and, as a result, its rapid wear.
Chain size
This parameter always depends on tire size installed on the unit. If you accidentally purchased a chain that is smaller than your tire, you will not be able to fit it. If this element will be larger than the tire size, you will not be able to tighten it. Both options prevent the use of inappropriate chain sizes. They are usually indicated in inches and have the following values: 10″, 12″, 13″, 14″, 15″, 16″, 18″ and above.
The chain length is determined by number of links. Links refer to the connecting links that fit into the groove of the bar, rather than the cutting teeth. When purchasing, you can indicate to the seller either the length of the part in inches or the number of links included in its composition. Some manufacturers, instead of length, indicate the number of links in the saw element. As a rule, this number does not depend in any way on the thickness of the tail, the pitch and the height of the profile. For example, a low-profile chain with a drive link thickness of 1.3 mm may consist of 72 links, 56 links, or some other number.
The order of the cutting links
In most cases, the order of placement of cutting elements can be of three types.
Cutting links are the main elements of the saw chain and have a high cost due to complex process manufacturing. Manufacturers, by changing the order of cutting teeth, reduce their number and thereby reduce the cost of the finished product. But at the same time, due to missing links, the efficiency of the tool is noticeably reduced, and the chain wears out faster.
Carbide chains
Pobedit is a very hard alloy, superior in strength to glass. Therefore, household glass cutters, various cutting metalworking and turning tools are made from pobedit, and it is also applied to saw chains of chainsaws. Pobedit is soldered onto the cutting links, where it acts as a strong cutting edge. But despite its hardness, this alloy is brittle.
The service life of chains tipped with Pobedite significantly exceeds the service life of standard cutting elements. Carbide chains are used for sawing frozen and hard wood, as well as in emergency situations where reinforced or regular concrete needs to be quickly cut.
The disadvantages of carbide chains include their high cost, which exceeds the price of conventional ones. cutting elements several times.
Chains for chainsaws with pobeditovy tips are used very rarely in amateur practice, since they are intended for semi-professional and professional tool having good power and high torque.
The best brands of chainsaw chains
Based on reviews from the owners of these units, a rating of chains for chainsaws has been compiled. Below are the manufacturers producing best chains for chainsaws.
- Stihl is a very famous Swiss brand that produces saw chains from high-strength chromium-nickel steel. They do not stretch when heated like regular ones. This is achieved through the use of a special hot riveting method in production. In addition, this manufacturer has patented a lubrication method - “grooves”, which are supplied to all drive links.
- The company does not design chains, but manufactures them using the best patented technologies. Thanks to this it is achieved high quality products. The company also provides a wide range of services to customers, providing warranty service for its products. In addition, the company's clients have the opportunity to purchase original spare parts for mechanisms.
- Oregon is a division of Blount Inc. The company is considered one of the best among companies producing saw elements for chainsaws. Oregon also produces various accessories and spare parts for instruments of other famous brands. The sawing elements of chainsaws are made of a special patented alloy, and a chromium alloy is applied to the teeth. To facilitate the sharpening process, marks are placed on the teeth indicating at what angle it is necessary to sharpen this operation. In addition, the chains have a system that reduces vibration and original design, thanks to which the lubricant is distributed evenly.
- Carlton is a company from America. All chain elements from this manufacturer have increased hardness because they undergo shot blasting at the manufacturing stage. The cutting links have a long edge, making it possible to perform a large number of sharpenings.
- Windsor. The company has patented a super-strong alloy that is highly heat-resistant and does not stretch. Windsor saw elements use stamped links and sealed rivets to ensure high reliability.
- The chain is made of alloy steel with chrome-plated teeth. The latter are sharpened in a special way, and a hypoid lubricant is applied to the chain, facilitating the sawing process. The company also uses the shot-peening method in the manufacture of chains, which increases the strength of the links.
When buying a chainsaw it is important different aspects. One of the main parameters is the pitch of the chainsaw chain. It affects how quickly the machine will cut wood. At the same time, for chains of different pitches, a motor of at least a certain power is required. The correct match between the type of chain and engine power allows you to extend the life of the unit, as well as use fuel more efficiently.
What is chain pitch and how to determine it?
Traditionally, in any field, a step means a certain distance between objects coming one after another. If we talk about chainsaw chains, then the pitch here determines the distance between the axes of the rivets located one rivet apart from each other. The same length will also coincide with the distance between the tips of the links entering the groove of the tire. Therefore, to determine the pitch of the chainsaw chain, it is enough to measure the indicated distances. You will get it in millimeters, but the pitch is indicated in inches, which means that the resulting value must be divided by 25.4. As a result, you will get your step. True, on old stretched chains this value will be slightly larger, but nevertheless it will still be close to one of the standard sizes.
Chains with larger pitches also have greater productivity. This is due to the fact that with a large distance between the teeth, the latter bite deeper into the wood. Hence the greater productivity. But to use such productive chains, you also need a fairly powerful chainsaw. Since not all saws have high power, there are also chains with smaller pitches. However, it is worth noting that there are also low-profile chains with smaller teeth. If you take a low profile chain with a larger pitch and compare it to a high profile chain with a smaller pitch, the latter will have more performance. In general, low-profile chains are used on the most low-power saws used in everyday life.
So what are the steps on chainsaw chains? The dimensions will be as follows:
- 0.325″
- 0.375″ (but more often referred to as 3/8″)
- 0.404″
And if the chain is low-profile, then usually the letter P is added to the designation. For example, 3/8″P. Actually, low-profile chains are mainly made with a pitch of 3/8″.
Well, when comparing chains of different pitches, it should be noted that a chain with a larger pitch, due to the fact that it cuts deeper into the tree, creates greater vibration. Because of this, the cutting accuracy decreases, since it is more difficult to hold the chainsaw straight in your hands. Therefore, for greater cutting accuracy, when productivity is not so important, it is better to use a chain with a smaller pitch.
Chainsaw power depending on chain pitch
As mentioned above, the larger the chain pitch, the greater the power of the chainsaw engine should be. What exactly are these numbers? Let's consider.
In order for the saw to work reliably for each step of the chain, the engine power must be at least the following values:
- 3/8″P - from 1.6 hp. (1.2 kW);
- 0.325” - from 1.8 hp (1.47 kW);
- 3/8” - from 3 hp. (2.21 kW);
- 0.404” - from 4.5 hp (3.31 kW).
Compliance with these parameters will allow the saw to maintain the required chain rotation speed, as a result of which the motor will not feel overload and, accordingly, will not heat up. You will also avoid unnecessary fuel consumption, as well as the phenomenon of chain jamming in wood.
If you put a chain with a small pitch on a chainsaw that is too powerful, this will lead to unreasonably high gas consumption. But if you don’t have a less powerful machine, and you need greater cutting accuracy, then there’s nothing wrong with using a chain with a smaller pitch.
However, the above power characteristics are suitable if the chainsaw is not intended to be used constantly, but only occasionally. For a constant professional activity the following conditions will need to be met:
- 0.325” - from 2.5 hp (1.84 kW);
- 3/8” - from 4 hp. (2.94 kW);
- 0.404” - from 6 hp (4.41 kW)
The 3/8″P pitch is not indicated, since it is not used for professional activities.
Compliance with such ratios will allow the chainsaw to last as long as possible.
Relationship between chain pitch and thickness
Since the load on the chain, depending on the pitch, can be greater or less, the chain must be either thicker or thinner. This refers to the thickness of those chain links that fit into the groove of the bar. Their thickness can be as follows:
- 1.1 mm
- 1.3 mm
- 1.5 mm
- 1.6 mm
- 2.0 mm
On household saws, as a rule, this thickness, and therefore the width of the groove on the bar, is 1.1 or 1.3 mm. In this case, with a thickness of 1.1 mm, as a rule, a low-profile chain with a 3/8″ pitch is used. At 1.3mm there is also either a low profile pitch of 3/8″ or 0.325″.
1.5mm chains can be either 0.325″ or 3/8″ pitch. And they always have a high profile. Chains of this thickness are used on medium-power devices.
Chains with a link thickness of 1.6 and 2.0 mm included in the groove are used on professional high-power chainsaws designed for long hours of daily work in the harshest conditions. The pitch can be any - 0.325″, 3/8″, and 0.404″.
Additional Circuit Options
In addition to pitch and thickness, a chainsaw chain has a number of important characteristics that cannot be ignored. These include:
- tooth shape
- number of links
- sharpening angle
The shape of the tooth can be of two types: chisel and chipper. The chisel tooth has the shape of the number 7, that is, the upper and lateral surface connected by an acute angle. The chipper tooth has a rounded angle instead of an acute angle. The chisel chain is more productive, but it also puts more load on the engine, as it encounters more resistance along the way, since it has a wider cutting edge. And the chipper one, on the contrary, is easier, but its productivity is less.
The number of links depends on the length of the tire. Moreover, with the same bus length, chains with short pitches naturally have large quantity links By the way, this also affects the final price of the chain, since, as a rule, the price is determined per link. Therefore, for example, a chain from one manufacturer for a 40 cm bar for a 3/8 pitch will cost less than for a 0.325 pitch.
The sharpening angle can be either 30 degrees or 10. The first is the most common, as it is used for cross-cutting wood (sawing for firewood, felling trees), while the second is used for longitudinal sawing, and these are those operations that are less common (sawing logs into boards, for example), which is why chains with such an angle are less common. You can immediately buy a ready-made chain with the right angle, or sharpen one chain into another on a machine.
Choosing a chain depending on the work to be done
Before purchasing a chainsaw, it is important to understand in advance what kind of work you will be doing with it.
All work can be divided into three areas:
- garden care, minor firewood collection, minor work Location on;
- construction from wood, large-scale procurement of firewood, infrequent felling of trees;
- daily professional use associated with felling trees or significant volumes of firewood collection.
For the first sphere, chainsaws with a chain pitch of 0.325″ or low-profile 3/8 and a thickness of 1.1 or 1.3 mm are suitable. Such devices are lightweight and small in size, so they are very convenient to use on own plot. Since the volume of work in domestic use is not too large, the safety margin and performance of such chainsaws will be more than enough.
For the second sphere, devices with 3/8 and 0.325″ chains with a thickness of 1.5 mm are suitable. The safety margin of these chainsaws and their performance are more than enough for such work.
In the professional sphere, you cannot do without chainsaws with a thick chain of 1.6 or even 2 mm. The pitch here will be 3/8 or even 0.404″. The power of such chainsaws is high, so they can easily operate with such chains, despite the fact that the resistance during operation is quite high. At the same time, the productivity is, of course, simply enormous - cutting down trees and preparing firewood is very fast.
From the above, it becomes clear that you should not install inappropriate types of chains on chainsaws. Even if you install a suitable drive sprocket and bar (and for chains of different pitches and thicknesses these parameters will also be different), the chainsaw will either be overloaded if you put a chain with a large pitch and high profile on a low-power model, or it will not use all its possibilities if you put a chain with a fine pitch or low profile on a powerful saw. In this case, it will simply burn gasoline in vain.
Summarize
So, as we found out, chains can differ both in pitch and in thickness, number of links, sharpening angle and tooth shape.
When choosing a new chainsaw, you must clearly understand what work you need it for and, depending on this, select a unit with a suitable chain for this purpose.
If you need a chain for an existing chainsaw, then you need to find out all the above parameters in order to buy a chain that suits you.
Well, it’s better to buy a chain from famous manufacturers, such as Stihl or Oregon. Yes, they are more expensive, but they also last much longer, since they are made of high-quality steel, so they stretch less, and the likelihood that it will break is also much lower.
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To choose a chain for a chainsaw, you need to know three parameters:
- Chain pitch;
- Chain thickness (drive link thickness);
- Chain length (number of drive links).
Knowing these three parameters, you can easily select a pole saw or harvester head.
1. Chain pitch
Chain pitch is usually denoted in inches; it is calculated as follows: measure the distance between the nearest drive links of the chain, or the distance between the three closest rivets of the chain (from the center of the rivet), divide by 2 and convert to inches (1 inch = 25.4 mm).
The chain pitch should always match the pitch of the saw drive sprocket and the driven one.
- Chain with a pitch of 0.25" aka 1/4". The distance between the three rivets (drive links) is 12.7 mm ÷ 2 = 6.35 mm, converted to inches (÷ 25.4) in inches this is 0.25" (more often referred to as 1/4").
- 0.325" pitch chain. The distance between the three rivets (drive links) is 16.5 mm ÷ 2 = 8.25 mm converted to inches (÷ 25.4) in inches this is 0.325".
- Chain with a pitch of 0.375" aka 3/8". The distance between the three rivets 19 mm ÷ 2 = 9.5 mm is converted into inches (÷ 25.4) in inches this is 0.375" (usually denoted as 3/8" so as not to be confused with 0.325").
- 0.404" pitch chain. The distance between the three rivets is 20.5 mm ÷ 2 = 10.25 mm, converted to inches (÷ 25.4) in inches this is 0.404".
- Chain with 3/4" pitch. The distance between the three rivets 38.1 mm ÷ 2 = 19.05 mm is converted into inches (÷ 25.4) in inches this is 0.75" (usually denoted as 3/4").
2. Thickness
Chain thickness is the thickness of the drive link (can be measured with a caliper). This size must always match the thickness of the groove.
Total for electrical and gasoline saws, as well as harvesters, there are 6 sizes that determine the thickness of the drive link:
- 1.1 mm (0.043”);
- 1.3 mm (0.05”);
- 1.5 mm (0.058”);
- 1.6 mm (0.063”);
- 2.0 mm (0.08”);
- 3.1 mm (0.122”).
3. The third main parameter when selecting a chain: Chain length (Number of drive links).
The length of the chain is determined by counting the number of drive (internal) chain links. Important:
- The cutting links do not determine the length of the chain (don't count them).
- The length of the guide bar does not determine the exact length of the chain (for example, on a saw with a 16" (40 cm) bar, a chain with a length of 55, or 56, or 57 links can be installed, depending on the chain tensioning mechanism of the particular saw model).
- A chain with a length of approximately 55-57 links will not suit you; only a certain size recommended by the saw manufacturer will do.
What is the bar length on my chainsaw?
The length of the cutting part of the tire differs from its overall length. The length of the bar is usually considered to be the cutting length (working part) - this is the distance from the front of the saw to the rounded tip of the nose of the bar. This measurement is rounded to the nearest inches or centimeters. An inch is denoted as " equals 2.54 cm.
For example, the length of the cutting part of a tire for Stihl chainsaws MS180 – 40 cm. 40 cm ÷ 2.54 = 15.7 inches. Rounds to 16" (inches).
For the Shtil MS180 chainsaw, a 16-inch (40 centimeter) Oregon tire is suitable, article number 160SDEA074.
How to choose a tire for a chainsaw?
There are several main parameters by which a chainsaw is selected, one of them is the pitch of the saw set. The pitch depends on the power of the chainsaw, and significantly affects the cutting speed.
How much the step corresponds to the power determines the performance and service life of the chainsaw. Also, from him correct selection fuel consumption depends.
Pitch is half the distance between adjacent shanks or between three adjacent rivets.
There are several sizes, 1/4 inch is the smallest, 3/4 inch is the largest and 3/8 and 0.325 inch are the most popular.
Pitch is a parameter that is available not only for the headset, but also for the sprockets of the tire and chainsaw.
Important! All three elements, chain, sprocket and bar, must have the same pitch parameter, otherwise installation and proper operation is impossible.
What does the distance between teeth affect?
In a saw chain, the distance between the cutting teeth directly affects its performance. The larger, the deeper the cutting edge can cut into the wood, provided correct sharpening limiter.
Accordingly, on more powerful chainsaws, it is permissible to install a headset with a large distance between adjacent links and vice versa.
If you install a ¼-inch saw set on a powerful chainsaw, the performance will drop significantly, and the load on the engine will increase, because. the saw will run too fast and exceed the maximum permissible speed, which can ultimately lead to overheating and scuffing of the CPG.
Conversely, installing a chain with a large pitch on a weak chainsaw will lead to the fact that the power of the saw will not be enough for normal cutting; of course, this will not lead to serious consequences, as in the first case, but it is not comfortable to work with such a tool.
Also, the quality and accuracy of the cut depends on the distance between the links. The further apart the adjacent cutting teeth are, the stronger the vibration during operation and the lower the cutting accuracy. For a more precise cut, you should choose a saw set with a smaller pitch. This factor needs to be taken into account by those involved in figure skating.
The chain pitch has a great influence on the so-called “rebound”. The greater the distance between the teeth, the higher the likelihood that the chainsaw will kick back.
Important! Most often, “bounce” occurs when working with the tip of the tire, for example, when making internal cuts. In this case, you need to be extremely careful, regardless of what pitch the chain is used with.
When selecting a chain, the rule is that the pitch (the distance between the teeth) is proportional to the power, but the cutting accuracy is inversely related, i.e. The greater the distance, the lower the accuracy.
3/8 or 0.325 which is better and why
It is impossible to determine which parameter is better and which is worse, since each of them has its own characteristics and is intended for chain saws certain power. Depending on how correctly the saw set is selected, the performance of the tool will have different indicators. If the headset is selected optimally, i.e. the distance between the links corresponds to the recommended power, then the performance of the chainsaw will be maximum. If chosen incorrectly, the engine will experience overloads that can lead to malfunctions.
Optimal power indicators for 0.325 inches are 1.8-2 kW. It is for this reason that chains with this pitch are used on the Husqvarna 142/137 chainsaw.
For parameter 3/8, a tool with a power of up to 3 kW is required. In this case, the question arises: why are 3/8-inch chains used on the Shtil 180, with a power of 1.5 kW? The answer is simple: with Shtil chainsaws, power is not the most important thing, great importance has the maximum number of revolutions. The Stihl 180 produces more than 13,500 rpm, which makes it capable of sawing with a 3/8-inch headset.
For 0.404 inches, the optimal power is 4.5 - 5 kW.
Important! The indicated values of power and chain pitch are not necessarily specific; the user himself has the right to choose the parameters of the headset that he plans to use on the chainsaw.
How to choose
When it is necessary to select the optimal chain pitch for a chainsaw, it is best to take into account the manufacturer’s recommendations and, based on them, select the type of saw attachment.
Important! When choosing, do not forget that the distance between the links is not the only parameter that you need to pay attention to.
It is also worth selecting the thickness of the link, the type of cutting tooth, and the number of links. Productivity largely depends on the sharpening angle, depth of cut and shape of the stopper tooth. The sharper the limiting tooth, the higher the cutting speed and the lower its quality.
Below we suggest watching a video about choosing a chainsaw chain pitch. The video explains and shows how to determine it, for which chainsaws, and what chain pitch to use.
How to find out
There are several ways to find out the chain pitch:
- View the pitch value on the guide bar. Manufacturers of saw sets must indicate the length of the bar, the width of the groove and the pitch of the driven sprocket on the shank of the saw blade.
- Measure the distance between the shanks of adjacent teeth or the centers of three adjacent rivets.
- A method that is suitable for chains in original packaging is to look at the characteristics of the chain on the box.
The branded packaging of Stihl chains contains comprehensive information about the product, by reading which you can find out not only the distance between adjacent links, but also the type of teeth, link width, and recommended file size for sharpening.
Chainsaw chain table
At the end of the article, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the table, which indicates technical specifications popular models of chains for chainsaws of different power.
Conclusion
The distance between chainsaw chain links is one of the most important parameters, which in no case should be neglected. When purchasing a spare set, you need to know which pitch is suitable for the bar and sprocket installed on your chainsaw, or change the chain, bar and drive sprocket as a set.
The choice of gasoline saws is determined by several criteria. One of them is the pitch of the chainsaw chain. This parameter determines the capabilities of the equipment, the speed of sawing materials and must correspond to the engine power, only in this case it will be possible to extend the life of the tool and reduce specific consumption fuels and lubricants.
The concept of a step and its meaning
Chain pitch refers to the distance between any three rivets. In saw chains, this length characterizes the distance between the two cutting teeth relative to each other. The pitch size is also equal to the length between the vertices of two adjacent chain shanks (guide elements that fit into the groove of the bar). In order to correctly determine the chain pitch of a chainsaw, measure the distance between the axes of three rivets in a row.
There is a well-founded pattern that states that the greater the distance between the cutting teeth of the chain, the deeper they go into the material being cut. By increasing the pitch of the chainsaw chain, you can increase its performance. In this case, the force for rotating the drive sprocket changes accordingly. You need to understand that the higher the step, the more force must be applied to pull it while cutting the material and the greater the engine power must be.
Modern manufacturers of gasoline saws use three main types of sawing chains with with the following values pitch, measured in inches:
- 0.325;
- 0.375 (marking 3/8 is used in classification);
- 0.404.
The quality and accuracy of the cut created in the material depends on the chain pitch. If the quality of cutting when working with a chainsaw is not of global importance, then the accuracy of the cut is sometimes important when dissolving logs or boards; for this, you need to take into account the dependence of the saw pitch on dissolving the wood according to given markings.
The rule for selecting a chain indicates that the pitch between the teeth is directly proportional to the performance and power reserve of the motor and inversely proportional to the accuracy of the cut being created.
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Correspondence between engine power and the distance between the cutting teeth of the chainsaw chain
Based on data obtained experimentally, it is recommended to select a chainsaw by considering the ratio of drive power and the distance between the cutting edges. It is known that the higher the pitch, the more force must be applied to rotate the drive sprocket and the greater must be the maximum torque developed by a gasoline engine.
To select the correct tool configuration, it is necessary to use the minimum power data for each of the three typical chain pitches.
Critical power indicators gasoline engines, rotating the drive:
- step 0.325” - power of at least 1.8 hp. (1.47 kW);
- step 3/8” - power of at least 3 hp. (2.21 kW);
- step 0.404” - power of at least 4.5 hp. (3.31 kW).
If the power of the drive motor is less than the specified values, then during the cutting process the following phenomena are possible: jamming of the chain in the tree, a decrease in the rotation speed of the drive, leading to overheating of the motor, increased cutting time and increased operating costs for fuel.
The use of powerful motors with a small pitch chain is not advisable, as this will also increase the time for dissolution and increase fuel costs. However, this combination is allowed if there is a need to perform precision work with wood.
The indicated minimum values of the drive characteristics indicate the ability of the equipment to operate reliably, but do not indicate the time of its continuous use in a professional environment. Rather, these values are given as recommendations for occasional work or for operating conditions where the tool is used for long periods of time. For long-term use of the equipment, which involves professional mode, the following technical data are required:
- step 0.325” - power 2.5 hp (1.84 kW);
- 3/8” pitch – 4 hp power. (2.94 kW);
- pitch 0.404” - power 6 hp. (4.41 kW).
The choice of tool should not be justified by the desire to have the highest possible chain pitch, as this entails the presence of a powerful motor and a long bar, which significantly makes the saw heavier.
And if, for example, it will be used occasionally or for dacha work, then such a choice is inappropriate.
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Dependence of pitch on additional characteristics of saw chains
During the movement of the chain and cutting wood, it is subjected to very strong high loads, in connection with this, an important characteristic is the thickness of the link element that fits into the groove of the tire and slides in it. This value also shows the thickness of the fastening elements of the links. You can measure it with a regular caliper.
Typical guide element thicknesses:
- 1.1 mm;
- 1.3 mm;
- 1.5 mm;
- 1.6 mm;
- 2.0 mm.
Thicknesses of 1.1 and 1.3 mm are used for the manufacture of entry-level chains intended for minor work. Most often, the step length at these values is 0.325”, which implies a gentle regime and low loads.
The value of 1.5 mm is the most common on the market of chainsaws and accessories; this value is enough to ensure safe operation at a pitch of 3/8”. However, this value will always indicate that the chain is not intended for professional activities.
The guides, which have thicknesses of 1.6 and 2.0”, are designed to carry out the most complex work, that is, they allow the use of equipment in shifts. At the same time, you need to know that these two values are a certain classifier, indicating that the metal for the manufacture of these chains is smelted from special grades of steel, that is, increased strength is built into the structure.
All produced chains may differ in cutting depth. It is characterized by the height of the cutting tooth (profile). The height is measured between the top flange of the cutting edge and the stop (all on one segment). There are low profile and high profile chain products.
The higher the profile, the higher the entry into the wood and, accordingly, the cutting speed. The height of the profile affects the occurrence of vibrations, which can cause increased wear of the drive or difficulty holding the tool in the hands; the higher the cutting part, the stronger the vibrations will be. Also, a high-profile chain requires increased engine power.
Household chainsaws always have a low profile chain. Professional devices combine different variants, but they always adhere to the fact that if the chain has a large pitch, then its profile is low, and if the pitch is 0.325, the profile is made high.
Such variations create the opportunity to increase the cutting speed not by increments, but by the profile height (cut depth). However, most professional tools for felling trees focus on increasing the pitch rather than the profile height, arguing that the chainsaw is more controllable in this version.
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Some important points when choosing chains or chainsaws
There are other indicators that influence the performance of the tool and the specifics of the work.
- geometry of the cutting tooth (profile);
- number of cutting links;
- type of sharpening of the cutting edge of the link.
There are two types of cutting profile: chisel and chipper. The first option has a direct work surface and is more productive. The second type has a sickle shape and reduced productivity. A chipper chain is easier to maintain, since it is easier to sharpen and strict adherence to sharpening angles is not required. Chisel options are most often used in 3/8 and 0.404” pitches.
The number of cutting teeth is always determined by their ratio to the number of guides included in the saw bar. That is, the link with the cutting part has two guide links. If such a combination is not observed, this means that the chain is of questionable manufacture.
The type of sharpening of cutting profiles is regulated by the type of future work. Typically, a classic chainsaw is used for cross cuts of wood and extremely rarely for longitudinal cuts. In rare cases, you come across chains with cutting links oriented for longitudinal cuts.
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When purchasing a tool, you need to clearly understand the scope of its use and, depending on this, determine the required chain pitch.
Chain links: a - cutting or cutter, b - lock.
Conditional types of use of chainsaws for private users:
- pruning branches in the garden, simple garden work;
- individual construction, firewood collection, occasional tree felling;
- frequent use (implying work for hire), procurement of very large volumes of firewood, operation in your own workshop.
In the first option, a chainsaw with a chain with a small pitch (0.325”) is recommended. This will make it possible to obtain a lightweight and maneuverable tool, making it easy to trim branches, including climbing ladders and tree branches. This equipment makes it possible to carry out simple clearing of wood, and occasionally felling of small trees is allowed.
The second option involves choosing a saw with a pitch of 3/8” and a guide link thickness of at least 1.5 mm. Such saws allow you to easily carry out the entire range of maintenance work on a site, a small workshop, and prepare a supply of firewood for the winter.
The third option suggests the use of 3/8 and 0.404” chains paired with a powerful motor, since the list of work performed is intended only for professional tools, and it is important to take into account the thickness of the guide link, it should be 1.6 or 2.0 mm. The steel for the manufacture of such chains is made taking into account possible overheating when dissolving wood without loss of hardness cutting edges links
Interchangeability of chains is allowed only for the pitch size specified by the manufacturer. This is explained by the number of teeth of the drive sprocket, which is calculated only for a certain distance between the links. The chainsaw bar has a groove for a certain thickness of the guides; this should be taken into account when changing the chain.
Replacing the drive sprocket with a larger pitch is not recommended due to the mismatch between power and loads when dissolving wood. A weak motor will not develop the necessary power to pull cutting links through wood, which will lead to jamming or failure of the drive and clutch of the device.
Most universal chain has a pitch of 3/8”, this allows for versatile use, combined with high speed cutting and a fairly accurate cut line, satisfactory breaking of wood fibers.
