company news about Why do sprockets wear fast or cause chain skipping?

In real applications, sprocket lifespan depends heavily on engagement accuracy and maintenance. Even a high-grade stainless steel sprocket will fail early if the chain drive is mismatched or poorly installed. The most common causes include:

1. Pitch mismatch between chain and sprocket
   If pitch does not match precisely, the chain cannot seat correctly, leading to jumping teeth or unstable transmission.

2. Tooth profile deviation
   Poor machining accuracy or incorrect tooth form reduces contact area and increases impact wear.

3. Incorrect alignment or tension
   Misaligned shafts or improper chain tension increase side load, causing abnormal tooth wear and noise.

4. Insufficient lubrication
   Dry running accelerates metal-to-metal abrasion. Regular lubrication forms a protective film that reduces friction and heat.

Practical maintenance suggestion:
Check chain tension and alignment during installation and inspect wear every 500 operating hours. Timely lubrication is one of the simplest ways to double sprocket service life.