Abnormal noise/vibration in the chain sprocket drive system

Customers encounter excessive noise and vibration when using the chain and sprockets for the drive system. This issue can manifest as:

Unusual noises during operation, indicating misalignment, improper tension, or worn components.

Irregular Vibrations: 

The system may shake or oscillate, affecting performance and increasing wear on components.

Therefore, the most urgent task is to figure out the cause of abnormal noise and vibration and solve the problem in time.

As a professional chain and sprocket manufacturer, we have remote diagnosis service.  After understanding the customer's problem, we immediately analyzed several possible causes of abnormal noise and vibration to help solve this problem.

Sprocket Misalignment: When the sprockets are not properly aligned, the chain runs unevenly, causing excessive noise and vibration.

Shaft Misalignment: If the drive and driven shafts are not aligned, the chain may experience side forces, leading to irregular movement.

Over-Tensioned Chain: Too much tension increases friction and causes noise due to excessive wear.

Loose Chain: A slack chain can create a whipping effect, leading to vibration and impact noise.

Worn Sprocket Teeth: If the sprocket teeth are worn or deformed, the chain engagement becomes uneven, causing rattling sounds.

Elongated Chain: Over time, chains stretch due to wear, leading to poor fit on the sprockets and increased vibration.

Damaged or Deformed Links: Bent or cracked chain links can result in irregular motion and noise.

Insufficient Lubrication: Dry or poorly lubricated chains generate more friction, leading to squeaking or grinding sounds.

Excessive Lubrication: Too much lubricant can attract dust and debris, leading to contamination and wear.

Incorrect Chain-Sprocket Match: Using the wrong chain pitch or type for the sprocket can result in poor engagement and noise.

Improper Tooth Profile: Inconsistent or rough tooth profiles can cause irregular chain movement.

Dirt, Debris, or Metal Shavings: Foreign particles between the chain and sprocket increase wear and noise.

Corrosion and Rust: A rusted chain or sprocket surface leads to rough engagement and vibration.

Excessive Speed: Running the chain at high speeds without proper tensioners or dampers can lead to oscillations and vibration.

Sudden Load Changes: Frequent start-stop cycles or variable loads can cause impact forces, leading to noise and vibration.

▶ A U.S. food processing factory identified chain and sprocket abnormal noise and vibration.

▶ Find the problem is sprocket misalignment through our remote diagnosis service.

With the guidance of CTS technicians, factory technicians correct the alignment of sprockets. The abnormal noise and vibration disappeared. The factory resumed production within 24 hours, reducing downtime and improving production efficiency.

CTS® is a professional industrial chain and sprocket manufacturer with over 14 years of experience in the power transmission industry. We have our chain and sprocket factory and a professional technical team that can provide technical support and a responsive after-sales team after-sales team. 

We can not only produce standard industrial sprockets(ANSI/DIN/KANA) but also customize industrial sprockets according to your specific needs. If you have any questions about industrial sprockets and other transmission parts, please contact us to help you.