Sprockets & Chain Drive Components
Precision machined plastic sprockets, drive sprockets, and roller chain drive components for industrial applications
- All ANSI standard chain sizes and custom pitches
- Self-lubricating materials eliminate messy grease
- Significantly lighter than steel sprockets
- FDA-compliant and detectable plastic options
- Serving Chicago and nationwide since 1986
Overview
Custom plastic sprockets for roller chain drives. Quieter, lighter, and corrosion-proof.
CDS Plastics manufactures all types of precision plastic sprockets including drive sprockets, driven sprockets, and idler sprockets for chain systems. Through advanced CNC plastic machining of UHMW sprockets, nylon chain sprockets, and food grade sprockets, we produce replacement sprockets that perfectly engage ANSI standard chains (#25, #35, #40, #50, #60, and larger). Our corrosion resistant sprockets deliver superior performance as drop-in replacements for metal sprockets in harsh environments.
Why Choose CDS Plastics Sprockets
Self-Lubricating Performance Eliminates Maintenance
UHMW sprockets and oil-filled nylon chain sprockets run without external lubrication, eliminating grease contamination in food processing and significantly reducing maintenance labor costs.
Corrosion Resistance in Harsh Environments
Our corrosion resistant sprockets withstand washdowns, chemicals, and outdoor exposure without rust or degradation, typically lasting significantly longer than steel in corrosive applications.
Noise Reduction for Safer Work Environments
Plastic chain drive components reduce noise considerably, helping facilities meet OSHA requirements while improving worker comfort and communication.
Precision CNC Machined for Perfect Chain Engagement
Our CNC machined sprockets hold tooth profile tolerances to ±0.005" ensuring smooth chain meshing, reduced wear, and elimination of chain jumping or binding.
Solutions for Common Chain Drive Challenges
Contamination from Lubrication
Corrosion in Washdown Areas
Excessive Chain Drive Noise
Heavy Sprocket Weight
Frequent Chain Replacement
Technical Specifications & Capabilities
Machining Capabilities
- Diameter range: 1" to 36"
- Chain sizes: #25 through #240 ANSI standard
- Number of teeth: 9 to 200+
- Bore tolerance: ±0.0005" to ±0.002"
- Hub configurations: Plain, split, QD bushing
- Tooth accuracy: ±0.005"
- Surface finish: 63Ra Standard. Better available.
Supported Chain Standards
- ANSI Roller Chain: #25, #35, #40, #41, #50, #60, #80, #100, #120, #140, #160, #200, #240
- Metric Chain: 06B, 08B, 10B, 12B, 16B, 20B, 24B
- Double Pitch: C2040, C2050, C2060, C2080
- Specialty: Hollow pin, extended pitch, attachment chains
- Custom pitches to match existing equipment
Material Selection Guide
| Material | Key Properties | Temperature Range | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| UHMW-PE | Self-lubricating, impact resistant, quiet | -260°F to 180°F | Food processing, general conveying, wet environments |
| Nylon 6/6 | High strength (10,000 psi), wear resistant | -40°F to 250°F | Heavy loads, drive applications, higher speeds |
| Acetal (Delrin®) | Dimensional stability, low moisture absorption | -40°F to 180°F | Precision applications, tight tolerances |
| Oil-Filled Nylon | Enhanced self-lubrication, reduced friction | -40°F to 250°F | High-speed, continuous operation |
| HDPE | Chemical resistant, economical, FDA compliant | -60°F to 180°F | Light duty, corrosive environments |
| Metal Detectable UHMW | Detectable by metal detection systems, FDA compliant | -260°F to 180°F | Food processing with metal detectors |
| X-ray Detectable Acetal | Detectable by X-ray inspection systems, FDA compliant | -40°F to 180°F | Food processing with X-ray systems |
| Ultra Detectable Plastics | Detectable by both metal and X-ray systems, blue visual indicator | Varies by base resin | Food processing with multiple detection methods |
| Glass-Filled Nylon | Enhanced stiffness, reduced expansion | -40°F to 300°F | High torque, minimal deflection needed |
Information We Need From You
To machine your replacement sprockets, provide us with:
- Chain specifications: Size (#40, #50, etc.) and pitch
- Sprocket details: Number of teeth, pitch diameter
- Bore requirements: Shaft size, keyway dimensions
- Hub style: Type A (plain), Type B (hub one side), Type C (hub both sides)
- Mounting features: Set screws, QD bushings, split hubs
- Sample part or drawing: For exact replication
- Detection requirements: Specify if you need metal detectable, X-ray detectable, or ultra detectable materials
Industries and Applications
Food & Beverage Processing
- Conveyor drives requiring food grade sprockets
- FDA and USDA compliant roller chain sprockets
- Detectable plastic sprockets for HACCP programs (metal, X-ray, or ultra detectable options)
- Eliminate rust contamination and lubrication issues
Water & Wastewater Treatment
- Clarifier drives using corrosion resistant sprockets
- Screen systems with UHMW sprockets
- No corrosion in constantly wet conditions
- Reduced maintenance in hard-to-access locations
Material Handling & Distribution
- Conveyor systems using plastic chain drive components
- Sortation equipment with nylon chain sprockets
- Quieter operation in fulfillment centers
- Self-lubricating for dusty environments
Chemical Processing
- Corrosion resistant sprockets for acid exposure
- No spark hazard with plastic sprockets
- Withstand aggressive wash-down procedures
- PVDF and PTFE options for extreme chemicals
Packaging Machinery
- Case packers with CNC machined sprockets
- Palletizers using replacement sprockets
- Reduced noise in operator areas
- Compatible with standard roller chains
Agricultural Equipment
- Feed systems with UHMW sprockets
- Grain handling using plastic sprockets
- Withstand outdoor exposure and weather
- Impact resistant nylon chain sprockets
Ordering Process
Information Required for Quoting
- Chain size and pitch (ANSI standard or metric)
- Number of teeth or pitch diameter
- Bore size and keyway specifications
- Hub style and width requirements
- Quantity and delivery timeline
- Detection requirements for food processing applications
Hub and Mounting Options
- Type A (Plain): No hub extension
- Type B (Single Hub): Hub on one side
- Type C (Double Hub): Hub on both sides
- Split Hub: For installation without shaft removal
- QD Bushing: Quick disconnect mounting
- Taper-Lock: For high torque applications
No Drawings? No Problem
Send us your worn sprockets for reverse engineering. We capture tooth profiles, chain pitch, and all critical dimensions to create exact CNC machined replacement sprockets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can plastic sprockets handle the same loads as steel?
For many applications, yes. Nylon chain sprockets handle significant loads, and glass-filled versions approach steel strength while maintaining weight advantages. The key is selecting the right material for your torque and speed requirements. Most conveyor and moderate-speed applications work excellently with plastic.
How long do UHMW sprockets last compared to steel?
In corrosive or washdown environments, UHMW sprockets typically last significantly longer than steel because they don't rust. In dry conditions, they may wear faster than hardened steel but replacement sprockets are economical and won't damage expensive chains when worn.
Do plastic sprockets work with standard roller chains?
Yes, our CNC machined sprockets are precision-made to ANSI standards and work perfectly with standard roller chain sprockets. The tooth profiles are identical to metal sprockets, ensuring proper engagement and power transmission.
What's the difference between metal detectable and X-ray detectable sprockets?
These are not interchangeable - they work with different detection systems. Metal detectable plastics trigger metal detectors, while X-ray detectable materials show up on X-ray inspection systems. We also offer ultra detectable plastics that work with both detection methods and include blue coloring for visual detection. Choose based on your facility's inspection equipment.
Can you make split sprockets for installation without removing shafts?
Yes, we regularly machine split hub plastic chain drive components that clamp around existing shafts. This design allows replacement sprockets to be installed without disassembling drive systems, reducing downtime from hours to minutes. We can replicate your existing split design or create new configurations.
Contact our engineering team for application assistance and rapid quoting
