Automatic Chain Tensioners
...compensate for chain elongation in machinery and conveyor systems, thereby supporting the service life of the chains in use. iwis chain tensioners are made from high-quality materials. Various types are available depending on the application. Correct tensioning and guiding of the chain reduces vibrations and extends service life.
Correctly tensioning the chain in practice means:
- For sprockets with a small number of teeth, the chain should ideally be tensioned to increase the wrap angle around the sprocket, allowing as many teeth as possible to engage.
- For sprockets with a larger number of teeth (z > 21), the chain can be tensioned downward on the slack strand, away from the sprocket. This reduces vibrations and requires less force, as the tension does not act against gravity.
If the chain slackening is too small, the chain is over-tensioned. The resulting increased surface pressure causes higher friction at the joints, accelerating wear elongation. In addition to the chain itself, other machine components are also subjected to greater stress, shortening their service life.
If the chain slackening is too large, the chain is under-tensioned. This can lead to increased noise and even chain jumping on the sprocket, potentially causing breakage. Especially with long, loose chain strands, significant vibrations can occur due to the superposition of the drive’s impulse and natural frequencies.
Tensioners Types in our Product Portfolio
TCR Type
with spocket and bearing
Features
- Wider operating angle
- Principle: Springs
- Function: Rotary
- Operating angle >45°
- Head: Sprocket & Bearing
TCP Type
with low friction coefficent polythene head
Features
- Wider operating angle
- Principle: Springs
- Function: Rotary
- Operating angle >45°
- Low friction coefficient polythene head
TO Type
Customized versions available on request
Features
- Wider operating angle
- Principle: Springs
- Function: Linear
- Low friction coefficient polythene head
ETR Type
with sprocket and bearing
Features
- High Temperature Resistance
- Principle: Springs
- Function: Linear
- Head: Sprocket & Bearing
AMS Type
Chain Tensioner ratchet function
Features
- Ratchet Safety Mechanism
- Principle: Springs
- Function: Linear
- Head: Sprocket & Bearing
Automatic tensioners – stable chain tension, less maintenance required
In many industrial applications, uniform chain tension is crucial for smooth running, service life and system availability. Automatic tensioners from iwis maintain optimum tension at all times without the need for manual adjustment. This reduces downtime and makes maintenance intervals easier to plan.
Your advantages at a glance
In order to optimally adjust a chain drive, in addition to the optimum force and positioning, the selection of the appropriate chain tensioner is also crucial for the longest possible chain service life. iwis chain tensioners offer you the following advantages:
- Constant tension for stable processes and reliable operation
- Reduced wear on chain and drive components
- Less readjustment and therefore lower maintenance costs
- Robust design for demanding industrial environments
- Quick integration into existing chain systems
Typical areas of application
Automatic tensioners are particularly suitable for applications with:
- fluctuating loads or changing operating conditions
- longer running times and high availability requirements
- increased focus on predictive maintenance and process reliability
You can find the complete iwis product range in the "Automatic Chain Tensioners" catalog.
For more information on how to correctly tension roller chains, please refer to our maintenance flyer.
Are you planning a new installation or would you like to optimise existing systems?
Our experts will assist you in selecting the right clamping solution. Contact us for technical advice.
