What materials are silent chains primarily composed of?

Silent chains are primarily composed of plates and pins. This construction is fundamental to their operation, as the plates interlink to form a flexible yet sturdy chain that maintains a continuous, quiet operation compared to regular roller chains. The plates are typically made from high-strength materials such as steel to ensure durability and resistance to wear, while the pins allow for smooth movement and articulation between the plates.

This design minimizes vibration and noise, earning the name "silent chain." The plates help distribute the load evenly across the chain, which enhances performance in applications requiring high-speed operation or where noise minimization is critical, such as in automotive and industrial machinery. Therefore, understanding the composition helps in recognizing the functional advantages that silent chains offer in mechanical systems.