#40 (1/2") Pitch Sprockets
ANSI #40 sprockets are sized for 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) pitch roller chain: the industry-standard size for light-duty intermittent use, low torque applications applications. Our BlackStar #40 sprockets are precision-cut from medium carbon steel with a hardened tooth profile, available in tooth counts from 9 to 95 and three hub configurations (A-plate, B-hub, C-hub) for direct shaft mounting or bushing installation.
When To Use #40 Sprockets
#40 chain has a 1/2" pitch with 5/16" roller diameter. Working load capacity is approximately 810 lbs per strand, with average ultimate tensile strength of 3,700 lbs. This combination makes #40 ideal for:
- Industries: precision instruments, office equipment, vending machines, medical devices, small consumer machinery
- Common applications: paper handlers, ticket dispensers, ATMs, copy machines, light agricultural tools
- Replacement of existing #40 sprockets without changing chain specification
- New designs where engineering analysis specifies this ANSI size
#40 Pitch Specifications
| ANSI Designation | #40 |
| Pitch (P) | 1/2" (12.7 mm) |
| Roller Diameter | 5/16" |
| Pin Diameter | 0.156" |
| Average Tensile Strength | 3,700 lbs |
| Working Load (Single Strand) | 810 lbs |
| ANSI Standard | B29.1 (Inch Series Precision Roller Chain) |
How To Select The Right Sprocket
Three specifications drive sprocket selection for any chain drive:
1. Tooth Count
More teeth means smoother chain engagement and reduced wear per tooth, but increases overall diameter. As a rule of thumb: drive sprockets should have at least 17 teeth for high-speed applications, and at least 19 teeth for shock-loaded systems. Driven sprockets can go larger for speed reduction. We stock 9-95 tooth options for most pitches.
2. Hub Style
Three hub styles match different mounting needs:
- A-Plate: Flat sprocket, no integral hub, use with a bushing (QD or Taper-Lock) for tool-free shaft removal.
- B-Hub: Hub on one side of the sprocket, direct shaft mounting with set screws or keyway.
- C-Hub: Hubs on both sides, for higher torque transmission and longer engagement.
3. Bore Type
Plain stock bore lets you machine to a custom shaft size. Finished bore with keyway and set screws mounts directly. QD or Taper-Lock requires a matching bushing but allows fast field removal.
Chain & Component Compatibility
#40 sprockets pair with #40 ANSI standard roller chain. For multi-strand applications, you need a matching multi-strand sprocket: a #40-2 (double-strand) sprocket for #40-2 chain. Our Lynx chain line offers cottered and riveted variants in single, double, and triple strand configurations.
Find the matching chain, connecting links, and offset links for your #40 sprocket drive:
→ #40 Pitch Chain→ All Lynx Chain→ BushingsFrequently Asked Questions
How do I confirm my chain is #40 pitch?
Can I use #40H chain on #40 sprockets?
What's the difference between #40 and #40-2 sprockets?
How does sprocket wear affect chain life?
Do I need a bushing for a finished-bore sprocket?
