Different Types of Roller Chain Attachments

Roller chain attachments are essential components in many material handling and conveying systems. These add-on plates, pins, or brackets allow chains to move, push, or carry loads directly, making them critical in applications like indexing, automation, and product transport. Choosing the correct roller chain attachment ensures reliable operation and compatibility with your system. This guide covers the most common types of chain attachments and how to select the right one for your application.

What Are Roller Chain Attachments?

A roller chain attachment is any additional component integrated into a chain link to allow external mounting, load handling, or movement control. These attachments may include extended pins, bent or straight plates, or custom configurations designed for specific use cases.

Attachments come in two primary forms:

• Standard attachments, which follow ANSI or ISO sizing and are widely available
• Custom attachments, which are engineered to suit a unique application or environment

These components are found in packaging lines, food processing plants, conveyors, agricultural equipment, and other automated systems where objects need to be moved, positioned, or sorted during production.

Common Types of Chain Attachments

There are several standardized types of chain attachments, each suited for different mounting styles and motion types. Below are the most widely used:

A-Type Attachments (Bent)

A-type attachments feature single bent plates attached to one side of the chain’s outer links. These bent tabs extend outward making them suitable for side-mounted loads or fixtures. Common applications include small product pushing and indexing.

• A-1: single bent plate on one side with one hole
• A-2: single bent plate on one side with two holes (available on double pitch chains)

K-Type Attachments (Bent)

K-type attachments consist of straight plates that project at a right angle from the link. They provide a flat mounting surface and are typically used for top-mounted tooling, slats, or other equipment fixtures. These attachments offer greater support and are ideal for vertical load handling.

• K-1: bent plates on both sides with one hole
• K-2: bent plates on both sides with two holes (available on double pitch chains)

SA and SK-Type Attachments (Straight)

These are straight (not bent) variants of A and K type attachments.

• SA-1: straight (vertical) plates on one side with one hole
• SA-2: straight (vertical) plates on one side with two holes (available on double pitch chains)
• SK-1: straight (vertical) plates on both sides with one hole
• SK-2: straight (vertical) plates on both sides with two holes (available on double pitch chains)

Denser spacing is commonly used in synchronized conveying systems or heavier-duty setups.

D-Type Attachments (Extended Pins)

D-type attachments use pins that extend beyond the chain plate. These extended pin attachments can be used to connect external parts, guide mechanisms, or hold fixtures. They are especially useful for systems where pushing or pulling is required, or where a component needs to pivot or slide over the pin.

• Available in single (D-1) or double pin (D-3) configurations
• Lengths can be customized to suit mounting depth

Custom Attachments

For unique environments or machinery configurations, custom roller chains may be needed. U.S. Tsubaki offers fully engineered attachment options that can include:

• Non-standard hole patterns
• Special materials (e.g., stainless steel for corrosion resistance)
• Heat-treated or high-temp components
• Modular configurations for changeover systems

Custom solutions are ideal for OEMs or facilities that require enhanced performance, special mounting points, or compliance with food or cleanroom standards.

You can view illustrations and dimensional specs for each of these attachment types in the U.S. Tsubaki Complete Guide to Chain.

How to Choose the Right Attachment

When selecting a roller chain attachment, consider the following:

• Load direction – Will the attachment support weight from the top, side, or through pushing?
• Frequency – Will every pitch need an attachment or just every other?
• Environment – Does the application involve chemicals, moisture, or high temperatures?
• Mounting surface – Do you need flat support (K-type) or side support (A-type)?
• Flexibility – Will components need to pivot, extend, or move independently?

For more complex configurations, working directly with a U.S. Tsubaki engineer is recommended to ensure proper chain selection and attachment performance.

Why Source from U.S. Tsubaki

U.S. Tsubaki is a trusted name in industrial power transmission and motion control. As a leading supplier of roller chain attachment solutions, Tsubaki offers:

• A wide range of ANSI and custom attachment chains
• U.S.-based inventory and manufacturing capabilities
• Technical support and design services to help optimize performance
• CAD resources and downloadable guides to assist engineers and specifiers

Tsubaki chains are engineered for durability, consistency, and adaptability across industries.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Choosing the right roller chain attachment is essential for optimizing your equipment’s performance and longevity. Whether you need a standard configuration or a fully custom solution, U.S. Tsubaki provides both the products and expertise to support your needs.

To explore available options or request engineering support, visit the attachment chain product page, download the Complete Guide to Chain, or contact U.S. Tsubaki directly.