Lynx British Standard (Metric) Roller Chain
Lynx British Standard chain follows BS 228 (ISO 606) for metric pitch roller chain: the European and Asian standard for industrial power transmission. Sized from 04B (6 mm pitch) through 72B (114.3 mm pitch), with the "B" designation indicating European-style construction (slightly different geometry than ANSI). Required for European and Asian-built machinery, and for replacement on equipment spec'd in metric pitches. NOT interchangeable with ANSI chain of equivalent inch pitches.
Key Features
- BS 228 / ISO 606 metric standard
- Pitches: 04B (6 mm) through 72B (114.3 mm)
- Single, double, and triple strand options
- Connecting links, offset links, and reels available
- Required for European and Asian machinery
- Material options: Steel, Stainless, Nickel Plated
Common Applications
- European-manufactured industrial equipment
- Asian-manufactured machinery
- Imported manufacturing systems
- Specialty equipment built to metric standards
- Equipment requiring BS 228 / ISO 606 certified chain
- Maintenance of legacy metric-pitch installations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is British Standard chain interchangeable with ANSI chain?
No. While some BS pitches are dimensionally close to ANSI equivalents (e.g., 12B is close to #60), they are NOT identical and cannot be substituted. Roller diameter, pin diameter, and side plate dimensions all differ. Using BS chain on ANSI sprockets (or vice versa) causes premature failure of both chain and sprocket.
How do I identify British Standard chain?
BS chain has a "B" designation followed by a number (04B, 06B, 08B, etc.): the number is 1/16 of the pitch in inches: 08B has a 1/2" pitch, 12B has 3/4". The "B" suffix is the giveaway. Look for it stamped on outer side plates. If unmarked, measure pitch in millimeters. BS sizes are 6, 9.525, 12.7, 15.875, 19.05, 25.4, 31.75 mm, etc.
Why does my machinery use British Standard chain?
European, British, Australian, and most Asian machinery is engineered in metric units and specifies ISO 606 / BS 228 chain. Substituting ANSI chain in equipment designed for BS chain is a common but serious mistake: the dimensional differences cause uneven loading and rapid wear. Always match the original chain specification.
What sprockets work with BS chain?
BS chain requires BS-designated sprockets. ANSI sprockets WILL NOT correctly mate with BS chain, even when pitch appears similar: the roller diameter difference causes the chain to ride incorrectly in the sprocket pocket. We stock sprockets in both ANSI and BS designations; match to your chain.
