Chain & Sprocket Calculator

Chain length in pitches and links, plus output speed.

Chain pitch (mm)#40/08B = 12.7 · #50/10B = 15.875 · #60/12B = 19.05Driver sprocket teethDriven sprocket teethCentre distance (mm)

Chain links (even)

Chain length (mm)

Ratio

Odd link counts need an offset (cranked) link — the weakest piece in any chain. 17T minimum driver for smooth running; chains elongate 2% and then they're scrap.

Formula

L_p = 2C/p + (z₁+z₂)/2 + (z₂−z₁)²/(4π²C/p); round to EVEN

References: ANSI B29.1; chain maker handbooks

Chain & Sprocket Calculator is a free chain length for mechanical and machine-design engineers — instant, accurate and 100% client-side, with the governing formula and reference shown next to the result so the number can be defended, not just quoted.

About Chain & Sprocket Calculator

Chain length in pitches and links, plus output speed. The calculation implements L_p = 2C/p + (z₁+z₂)/2 + (z₂−z₁)²/(4π²C/p); round to EVEN (ANSI B29.1; chain maker handbooks). Odd link counts need an offset (cranked) link — the weakest piece in any chain. 17T minimum driver for smooth running; chains elongate 2% and then they're scrap.

How to use Chain & Sprocket Calculator

1Enter Chain pitch in mm (#40/08B = 12.7 · #50/10B = 15.875 · #60/12B = 19.05).
2Enter Driver sprocket teeth.
3Enter Driven sprocket teeth.
4Enter Centre distance in mm.
5Read Chain links (even), Chain length, Ratio instantly — no submit button needed.
6Need US units? Flip the SI/Imperial toggle and every field converts.

Why use Chain & Sprocket Calculator?

✓Implements the standard formula — L_p = 2C/p + (z₁+z₂)/2 + (z₂−z₁)²/(4π²C/p); round to EVEN
✓Reference cited on-page: ANSI B29.1; chain maker handbooks
✓One-click SI ⇄ Imperial toggle — values convert in place, physics stays in SI
✓Runs entirely in your browser — nothing uploaded, free forever

Frequently asked questions

What formula does the Chain & Sprocket Calculator use?+

It computes L_p = 2C/p + (z₁+z₂)/2 + (z₂−z₁)²/(4π²C/p); round to EVEN, per ANSI B29.1; chain maker handbooks. The formula is displayed under the result.

What should I keep in mind when using this calculator?+

Odd link counts need an offset (cranked) link — the weakest piece in any chain. 17T minimum driver for smooth running; chains elongate 2% and then they're scrap.

Is this suitable for machine design coursework?+

Yes — these are the exact Shigley/Machinery's-Handbook formulas, with the substitution shown step by step, so you can follow the worked example into your own calculation sheet.

Is the Chain & Sprocket Calculator free to use?+

Yes — completely free, no sign-up, no limits. It runs client-side in your browser, so inputs stay private and results are instant even on slow connections.

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