Sprockets are teeth like projections arranged on a wheel rim to engage
the links of a chain. They engage chains in many different power
transmission and conveyor systems. They are mainly made of cast iron,
sintered metal, and carbon steel. Inserted sprockets are also designed
to reduce noise and operation. They are often an economic, reliable
drive system for long running, continuous drive applications with
maximum absorption of shock and minimum torque loads. Geometry and Maintenance
Two sprockets are connected to each other with a chain. On one end of the chain is a small sprocket located on the engine that rotates due to the force of the engine. On the other end of the chain is a larger sprocket located attached to the rear axle. This provides both forward and reverse momentum. The amount of rotation of each sprocket depends on the rotation speed of the driving sprockets, the number of teeth of the driving sprockets and the number of teeth of the driven sprockets.
The sprocket must be inspected once a month for wear and if the teeth are worn down or are broken they should be replaced. The sprockets and the chain must be lubricated with chain lube such as bell ray.
Applications
Sprockets are most commonly used in bicycles. In a cycle, a chain runs between two sprockets. When the paddle is pushed, the front gear is turned and that meshes with the links in the chain. The chain moves and meshes with the links in the rear gear that is attached to the rear wheel. This enables the bicycle to move.