Estimation of the Fatigue Strength of a Plate Traction Chain

We present the results of simulations of the stress-strain state of a traction chain by the finite-element method with regard for the contact interaction and friction between the chain link and the roller. We propose an analytic relation for the approximate evaluation of the fatigue strength of the chain according to the distribution of stresses. We also establish conditions that should be imposed on the tensile forces acting upon the chain in order to guarantee its required service life under given operating conditions.