Tensile Strength of Plastic Chain

What is the tensile strength of plastic chain?

Tensile strength is the capacity of a material to withstand loads tending to elongate. Tensile strength is commonly calculated for common materials such as alloys, composite materials, ceramics, plastics, and wood. Tensile strength at Break or Ultimate Tensile Stress refers to the elongation of a material that is subject to tension until it breaks. Stress=force/area or F/A. It is commonly expressed in MPa or psi.

The plastic chain we manufacture at Mr. Chain is routinely tested for tensile strength. The relative strength depends on the size of the links. The size listed is the outside length of each link.

There are a couple of caveats to consider. One is that these tests are performed at the time of manufacture. Plastic tends to break down in extreme weather conditions, so the tensile strengths may diminish after three years of use. The second caveat involves the nature of plastics manufacturing. It is possible to have a vacuum void, or air trapped inside a plastic part. These are holes formed in the areas of the last plastic to cool. These are signs of internal stress and are warning signs that the part may not perform as required.