Chains
Chain drives belong to the family of shell drives (belt drives). They are positive-fit traction drives, using which the torque is transmitted from the drive shaft to the means of traction or vice versa by means of wheels that have a corresponding positive-fit profile. Chains guarantee a largely constant transmission from extremely small to extremely large centre distances.
Unlike other types of transmission, chains are insensitive to dirt. However regular maintenance of the chains is nevertheless required.