Chains vs. Timing belts vs. ERO Joint® Timing belts
Which is the best power transmission system? Chain, timing belt or ERO Joint® mechanically assembled timing belt?
The industry uses all three systems:
- Chain: more flexible (easier to assemble, available in all lengths)
- Belt: more transmissible power (withstands higher rotation speeds), cleaner (no lubrication required),
- ERO Joint® Timing belt: belt advantages and chain assembly flexibility (ERO Joint® belts are produced open and closed on the machine like a chain).
Watch the video of a bike with a Belt drive system
"Belts Are The BEST Bicycle Drivetrain Available"
Chain vs. Belt vs. ERO Joint® Belt
| Winner | Comment | |
|---|---|---|
| Easy assembly | ERO Joint® chains and belts | The belts are closed, so it's easier to assemble an open chain and close it in the machine than a closed belt. ERO Joint® belts are delivered open and closed on the machine. It is therefore just as easy to assemble an ERO Joint® belt as a chain. |
| Repairability | Chains | A chain can be repaired using a replacement link. The belt must be completely replaced. |
| Efficiency | Belts | Belts weigh less than chains. Better efficiency. |
| Durability | Belts | Belts generally last at least twice as long as chains. ERO Joint® belts can last as long as closed belts, under certain conditions. |
| Maintenance | ERO Joint® belts and belting systems | The belt requires no lubrication and generally no tension adjustment. |
| Price | The winner depends on the application | |
| Weight | ERO Joint® belts and belting systems | |
| Noise | ERO Joint® belts and belting systems | Belts are quieter than chains. ERO Joint® generates no additional noise on the belt. |
| Cleanliness | ERO Joint® belts and belting systems | Belts don't need lubrication. The chain needs lubrication, and the dust agglomerates, generating dirt. |
| Available sizes | ERO Joint® chains and belts | All chain lengths can be made by adding links. ERO Joint® belts can be manufactured in any length and width. Closed timing belts are only manufactured to a certain standard length. |
| Temperature resistance | Chains | The general temperature range for belts is -30 to +80°C. The temperature range for chains is wider. |
| Chemical resistance to water, acid, oil, UV, chlorine, etc... | Belts | The belt can be made from a variety of materials (rubber, PU, ....), allowing more possibilities than chains. |