Chainsaw tire markings. How to measure the length of a chainsaw bar? Saw chain pitch characteristics

Not everyone knows how to measure a chainsaw bar. Chainsaw chains are available in limitless combinations of sizes, types and features. This is because chainsaws themselves vary in size and use. When it's time to replace the chain, it's especially important to have all the correct information about the chainsaw and its chain size. Only in this case will you be able to make the replacement correctly.

Finding the right chain for your chainsaw is a little more difficult than finding other power tool accessories due to the unique way the chainsaw bar is measured. The information below explains how chainsaw chains are measured, the differences between these measurements, and how to quickly find the measurement numbers needed to order the correct chain.

The chainsaw chain length is compared to the saw bar measurement. Some manufacturers sell replacement chains based on the measured bar only. It is important to know that there are no universal circuits. A chainsaw with a long bar will require a correspondingly longer chain. However, an accurate means of determining chain length involves several measurement options that ultimately affect how well the chain fits your chainsaw.

First of all, it is worth considering the question of how to measure the length of a chainsaw bar?

1. Measure the distance from the tip of the chainsaw to the point where the bar first exits the saw body. A tape measure is useful for measuring and obtaining this information. Measurements should be rounded to the nearest even number if the number was not exact. The resulting number is the tire measurement. The most common bar values ​​are 16, 18 and 20 inches.
2. Lay the chain out on a flat surface. Look for chain links, sometimes called lugs. These links protrude from the bottom of the chain and they engage the gear drive, powering the chain. Count the number of drive links in the chain.
3. Determine the height of the chain. Measure the distance between any 3 consecutive rivets holding the chain together. Measure from the center of one rivet to the middle of the third link. Rivets are visible between the drive links and the cutters—the cutting teeth that sit on top of the chain. To find the height, divide the measurement by 2. The pitch, along with the number of drive links, describes the length of the bar you need when looking for replacement chains.

Things you'll need: Tape measure. A chain that does not fit properly on a chainsaw is dangerous. Therefore, if you are not sure about the choice, ask a professional to help determine the length of the bar and select the right chain. Consult your chainsaw's manual to ensure you are purchasing the correct type of chain.

Before operating a chainsaw or any power tool, read all safety warnings in the manufacturer's manual. Before replacing the chain on your chainsaw, disconnect the spark plug or battery to ensure that the saw will not start accidentally.

Below are steps you can also take before you start searching for the right chainstay.

1. Find out the chain pitch measurement by looking it up on the tool, in the owner's manual, or by dividing the distance between 3 links by 2 (it is recommended that this be done by a professional).
2. Obtain a chain measurement either by locating it on the tool, in the owner's manual, or by measuring the thickness of the chain's drive links. All measurements must be accurate.
3. Count the number of individual drive links in the chain. With no exceptions. Now good news, everything else is easy to do. If you have these three digits, a suitable replacement chain will only take a few minutes. All you need to do is enter the correct measurements and number of links in simple formula or online measurement calculator and it will automatically determine the tire length.

All unique tire measurement systems require a little knowledge of terminology and other technical things. If you're looking to buy a new chain for your chainsaw, this guide will help. in the best possible way. With the information provided in the article, it will be easier to narrow down the choice to the chain that is needed in a particular case.

Use the method that seems most convenient to you. The bus measurement is different from the actual chain length. Measuring the bar is important when you are replacing a chainring or purchasing a chain for a future replacement. It is important for every chainsaw owner to know how to measure a chainsaw bar. The bar measurement expresses the length of the chainsaw guide bar, not the entire length of the bar, which is actually slightly longer. If you want to know the true length of a tire, you will need not only a tape measure, but also effective methods measurements presented above.

The chain can be called the main working element of a chainsaw. It is she who has to “take the brunt of the blow” and for this reason inevitable natural wear and tear occurs. Some people believe that the power of a saw determines its performance, but this is an erroneous judgment. After all, thanks to the right saw, you can achieve high productivity, as it affects the cutting speed and quality. The most popular and high-quality chainsaws are brands such as Shtil, Husqvarna, Champion, Goodluck, shown in the photo. How to choose a chain for a particular brand of saw?

Rules for selecting a chain by pitch

An important parameter by which you need to choose a chain for a chainsaw is the pitch distance between the centers of the nearest links. The exact chain pitch size corresponds to the distance between the center of the first and third rivets. The greater the width and length of the link, the wider the step and, accordingly, the greater the distance between the teeth. The larger the chain pitch, the greater the productivity, but at the same time energy costs increase and more power is required.

The marking is indicated on the product in units of measurement - inches and has only five meanings:

1. 0.25 or one quarter;
2. 0,325;
3. 0.375 or three eighths;
4. 0,404;
5. 0.75 or three quarters.

The extreme step sizes of this line are practically not used. For professional 5.5 horsepower chainsaws, a pitch of 0.404 inches is the most suitable option. For home use, optimal step for chainsaws with a power of three horsepower - this is 0.325 (for not thick wooden materials), and with four horsepower - 0.375 inches.

Rules for choosing a chain based on tail thickness

The determining issue in choosing a chain will also be the thickness of the tail. This option should be taken into account Special attention, so as not to make a mistake in matching it to the groove of the saw bar for pulling the chain. Therefore, to choose the right one, you need to try the chain on the chainsaw.

This parameter characterizes the strength and quality of the product and ensures durability. There are five options for chain tail sizes: 1.1; 1.3; 1.5; 1.6; 2 millimeters. For household needs, a chain with a thickness of 1.3 mm is suitable, and for professional work - 1.5; 1.6 mm.

Depth of cut - features

The depth of cut or cut depends on the height of the chain tooth. Thus, as the tooth height increases, the depth of cut increases and, accordingly, the cutting speed increases. However, the strength characteristics of the material are reduced.

The chains have two tooth profile heights:

• Low profile -0.635mm for domestic purposes;

• High profile -0.762mm for professional purposes.

Chain length

The length of the chain is recorded in the product passport and directly depends on the power and size of the chainsaw. The number of cutting teeth depends on the pitch of the links and the length of the chain, that is, the selection of these values ​​occurs in combination. Household saws do not have a long chain length.

Types of links

The working elements of the chain in professional saws have a wide variety of shapes. At the same time, the most popular types are chippel and chisel.

Chippel type links have a crescent shape in cross section. Due to the rounding, the working area of ​​the cutting element increases, and the loads during the sawing process increase. This type The links are very convenient when sharpening; there is no risk of accumulation of debris.

Chisel type links in cross section have the shape of a seven. Thanks to this, good and fast cutting of wooden materials occurs. Due to its angular shape, this type of link is difficult to sharpen. During operation, “dead” inaccessible zones appear in the corners, in which dirt and dust accumulate.

Location of links

On a standard high-quality chain, each cutting link has two tails. The material from which the working element of the chainsaw is assembled, in the best option, is very durable. For this reason, the cost of a good chain cannot be low. However, there are quite cheap varieties that have half-missing or missing links. When the owner of the saw does not use it often, this option may be suitable.

Types of cuts

At the final stage of choosing a chain, it is worth focusing on the types of cuts. The material can be cut along and across the fibers; the shape of the cutting element, which can be longitudinal or transverse, depends on this. They also differ from each other in the sharpening angle. For the first type, this angle ranges from five to fifteen degrees, and for the second type - twenty-five, thirty-five degrees.

In order not to make a mistake and choose an excellent chain, there are proven and high-quality brands Shtil, Husqvarna, Champion, Goodluck, which correspond to the required chainsaw model. Below is a video that will help you choose the right chain.

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 correct work impossible.

What does the distance between teeth affect?

IN 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 in inverse relationship, 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. At wrong choice, 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 It has maximum amount rpm The Stihl 180 produces over 13,500 rpm, making it capable of cutting with 3/8-inch saws.

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:

1. 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.
2. Measure the distance between the shanks of adjacent teeth or the centers of three adjacent rivets.
3. 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 the links of a chainsaw chain is one of the most important parameters that should never 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.

In some situations, owners of chainsaws may experience some confusion in understanding all the chain markings for these tools. As a result, this leads to unsuccessful purchases. The choice of chainsaws is often determined by just a few basic criteria, one of which is the chain pitch. This indicator helps to highlight the future capabilities of the tool, including its cutting speed, and according to standards it must correspond to the engine power level. How are chains marked? Let's figure it out!

Step and its dimensions

The pitch is the intermediate distance between three rivets that are located side by side. To correctly calculate the chain pitch, you should measure the distance between the axes of three rivets placed close to each other. In formula form it looks like this:

Where, L is the step length, which in chainsaws characterizes the degree of distance between two teeth in relation to each other;

S – the value of the gap between the two outermost rivets out of three.

The pitch size can also be equal to the length of the distance between two adjacent shanks.

Pattern : the greater the distance between the cutting teeth, the deeper they will go into the material being cut

By increasing the chain pitch size, it becomes possible to increase the performance of the chainsaw. However, in such a case, the degree of force applied to achieve rotation changes. drive sprocket. And the higher the pitch of the chain, the greater the power of the engines and the more physical force required to pull it when sawing materials.

Chainsaw chain pitch. Table

Taking into account the step size, at the moment the chains are divided into several subtypes:

As can be seen from the table, the chain pitch is designated as a regular number (3/4) and a decimal number - “0.375”. This division is caused by the similarity of the decimal values ​​- “0.325” and “0.375”, since the difference in one digit created confusion when selecting a saw. Therefore, at one time it was decided to establish two different notations: decimal and ordinary fractions.

The step is stamped into the area of ​​a special cutting depth limiter on each tooth.

The advantages of large pitch chains include:

• high level productivity due to wide cut;
• ability to perform complex work (felling large trees).

But it should be taken into account that a wide cut requires the use of a more powerful motor, which in turn significantly increases the resistance.

The advantages of fine pitch chains are:

• low level vibrations;
• smooth movements when cutting;
• cleanliness of the cut.

Benefits are achieved through large quantity teeth and small distance between them.

All known classification of circuits is based on the peculiarities of their marking depending on the pitch, which is intended for specific needs and is produced for a specific power of electrical equipment. To better understand each type of step, they should be considered separately.

Basic circuit parameters

Chain marking requires the following parameters:

1. Step:

• "0.325"- the most common and minimum step size, which is used in semi-professional and household chainsaws with low power. The standard power value for such a step ranges from “0.325” to “3 hp,” but not higher than “3.5 hp.” When working with this type of chain, cutting occurs more smoothly, comfortably, without “breaking” the workpiece.
• "0.375" ("3/8")– applied to chainsaws with a power of “4 hp”. This chain is used when sawing wood of medium and small thickness.

The accuracy and quality of the cut created depends on the pitch value. In cases where the achievement is not important High Quality sometimes when using a chainsaw special meaning has precision cutting. To do this, it is necessary to take into account the dependence of the step on the dissolution of wood according to pre-applied markings.

1. The thickness of the leading links (tails). When a chainsaw operates, its chain must most of all loads. Taking this into account, one more main characteristic The work of the saw is the thickness of the elements of the link that fits into the grooves of the bar. This parameter also determines the overall thickness of the fastening links, which is measured using a conventional caliper. Standard thickness values ​​include:

• "1.1 mm" ("0.043") and "1.3 mm" ("0.05")– used in the production of chains entry level, which are intended for carrying out small amounts of work. Often, with such values ​​of link thickness, the chain pitch length can be “0.325”, which implies the presence of low loads and a gentle operating mode. Therefore, they are used in household and semi-professional devices;

• "1.5 mm" ("0.058")– the most common thickness value on the market for chainsaws and their accessories. This value can provide safe work with a step size of “3/8”. A chain with a thickness of 1.5 mm is not intended for sawing professional level;
• "1.6 mm" (0.063) and "2.0 mm" (0.08)– designed for the most difficult work. The metal used in the manufacture of such chains is steel of special grades, and the design includes characteristics of increased strength.

The greater the thickness of the link and the wider the groove of the bar, the higher quality the chainsaw is considered, since it can withstand heavy loads.

1. Cutting depth- is distinctive feature produced chains and is characterized by the profile height of the cutting teeth. It is measured by the gap between the stops and the cutting upper edge. Both high-profile (0.762 mm) and low-profile (0.635 mm) types of chain products can be presented on the market.

The higher the profile height, the higher the entry into the material (depth) and the cutting speed.

High-profile chains are installed on chainsaws with increased engine power. Information about the profile height is usually written down in the specifications for the tool.

The profile affects the occurrence of vibrations, which subsequently cause wear of the drive or problems when holding the tool in the hands. Moreover, the higher the cutting parts, the stronger the degree of vibration will be.

Household types of chainsaws are equipped with a low profile. In semi-professional devices they can be combined different variants types of circuits. However, in most cases the following principle is followed:

In a chain with a large pitch, a low profile is installed, and with a pitch of “0.325” - a high one

Such variations increase the cutting speed not due to the step, but due to changes in the depth or height of the profile. Although in professional tools the emphasis is on increasing the step, explaining this by making the chainsaw more controllable.

1. Geometry of cutting teeth– the profile can be of two main types:

• chipper (popularly “sickle”)– has a crescent shape and is characterized by high productivity. During operation, it is easier to sharpen and does not require strict sharpening angles. Disadvantage: risk of high loads and deterioration of cutting characteristics;
• chisel (popularly “seven”)– has a straight-shaped working surface in the form of the number “7”. Used in chains with a pitch of “0.404” or “3/8” on professional saws. The main disadvantage of chisel links is the difficulty of sharpening the cutting elements and sensitivity to dirt.

1. Number of cutting teeth– is defined as the ratio of the number of teeth to the number of guides in the tire. In chainsaws good production two guide links must be combined in the cutting part of the tool.
2. Type of sharpening of links– directly depends on the type of future work. Classic views Chainsaws are mostly used for cross-cutting trees and are rarely used for longitudinal cutting. Taking into account the resistance of the tree, in both cases the chains can use different angles of placement of links. On construction counters you can now find chains with the following types cutting links:

• longitudinal type of chain - involves cutting wood along its grain. The cutting angle reaches 5-15 degrees.
• transverse type - the cut is made crosswise. The cutting angle in chains is 25-35 degrees.

1. Chain length – depends on the parameters and technical characteristics the chainsaw itself: power, dimensions, etc. With standard or normalized chain tension, its length is most often indicated in the passport.
2. The order of the links – the sequence of links may be different:

• standard - for each cutting link in the chain there are two driving links;
• with semi-pass - every third link in the chain is replaced by the so-called connecting link;
• with a gap - a connecting link is installed at the location of every second cutting link.

Why do you need to skip links in a chain? In the chains themselves, the most valuable thing is the quality of the cutting links, since they are manufactured using special technologies and are more expensive, unlike connecting links. If it is impossible to shorten the chain, the only option to reduce the cost of the chain is to skip cutting elements. In operation, chains with skipped links show reduced performance and wear out quickly.

In general, if you want to purchase a tool for cutting wood with maximum efficiency, take the time to further study the markings of chainsaws, which are also indicated in the instructions for the tool.

It happens that chainsaw users get confused with understanding the size designation of bars and chains. This confusion leads to purchases of accessories that are not suitable for the saw, and as a result, wasted money. In this article we will try to point out typical mistakes and we will help you not to commit them.

Most of the errors are due to the fact that traditionally the parameters of the saw set are indicated in inches. For people accustomed to using the metric system, this is not convenient. This is the reason for most of the errors: in Russia, for ease of memorization, it has developed that the characteristics of a saw set use parameters expressed in both inches and millimeters at the same time, which is generally not correct.

Chainsaw tire.

Three parameters are used to characterize the tire dimensions: its length, groove width and chain pitch. for which it is intended. In the vast majority of cases, manufacturers indicate the length in inches. Most often in Russia you can find seven tire sizes from 10 to 22 inches. You can often find the same saw model on sale, but with different bar lengths. This is normal as long as it matches the manufacturer's stated tire sizes. This is indicated in the saw's passport.Some sellers indicate dimensions not in inches, but in centimeters, believing that this is clearer. Here is a table of the correspondence between inches and centimeters.

Often the length is indicated in the number of driving chain links for this bar, for example a 72 or 76 link bar.

The groove width is also indicated in inches. The most common are five sizes. Here are some numeric values widths in inches: 0.043, 0.050, 0.058. As you can see, it is difficult to remember this data without errors. Therefore, for convenience in Russia, the width of the groove is often indicated in millimeters. Here is a conflict in dimensions: indicate the length of the tire in inches or centimeters, or in the number of links, and the width of the groove - in millimeters. But, despite this, any more or less competent seller will understand you. Below is a table of groove widths in inches and millimeters

The chain pitch in the set of tire parameters characterizes the size of the driven sprocket. It is important that this parameter for the chain and bus match. If there is no such coincidence, then both parts will fail. The most common sizes are 0.325 and 3/8. We'll talk about chain pitch below.

Chains for chainsaws.

Three parameters are used to characterize the circuit: chain pitch, chain length And drive link width. Chain pitch always indicated in inches. For ease of remembering, their designations alternate in fractional and decimal notation. Below is a table of the most common chainsaw chain pitches:

Chain length measured by the number of leading links, that is, in pieces. Errors are not allowed here: a chain of the wrong length will not be able to be installed and tensioned correctly. We draw your attention to important point: When a chain stretches during use, some users remove the extra links. Remember this when you tell the store clerk the length of your chain. When pulling the chain, do not remove excess links - this is dangerous for your health.

And finally drive link width. It must match the tire groove width parameter. Everything said about the width of the tire groove is also true for this parameter.

As a result, we have the following:

• To choose the right tire you need to know its length in inches, the pitch of the chain used and the width of the groove. This information can be found either on the bar itself or in the saw's operating instructions. Even in this case, we recommend taking your tire as a sample when going to the store. In addition to these options It is important that the tail of the new tire matches your sample. It is important to buy tires specifically for your saw model, and not select “similar” ones. Pay attention to the position of the oil supply holes: they should match on your old and new tires.
• To choose the right chain you need to know its pitch in inches, length in links (pieces) and width of the leading link. You can determine this data yourself; you can find it in the chainsaw operating manual. It’s better to take your old chain as a sample and show it to a specialist in the store. If you have shortened your chain, keep this in mind when choosing your chain length.
• Before you start using a new bar and chain, you need to make special (very simple) preparatory activities. You can read about how to do this in our article.
• In order for the saw set to serve for a long time, it is important to properly tension the chain. This is stated in the article "How to properly tension a chainsaw chain"
• The drive sprocket, chain and bar form the so-called saw set. You can find out why these components wear out in our article. "Saw set. Wear factors". You can learn about what wrong actions lead to rapid wear and tear from the article "Saw set. What NOT to do".