SKF PHC roller chains: part numbers explained

Take PHC 25-1X10FT: the number right after the prefix is the chain size, and the digit after the hyphen is the strand count, so PHC 25-2X10FT is the duplex version of the same chain. The final block is the packaging. X10FT means a box length in feet and X5MTR a box length in meters, which means two part numbers can describe one chain packed two ways.

A size with a B, like PHC 05B-1X5MTR, belongs to the European standard series; do not swap it for an American standard size just because the pitch looks similar. A part number ending in C/L or O/L, such as PHC 25-1C/L or PHC 25-1O/L, is not chain by the box: it is the connecting link or the offset link for that chain. An H added to the size indicates a different version of that size, so copy it exactly.

A chain runs on two sprockets, and all three parts share the wear. If you are replacing it because it skipped teeth or stretched visibly, inspect the sprockets before ordering only the chain; new chain on worn teeth will fail at the same spot. Note whether the drive is simplex, duplex or triplex too, since the strand digit and the matching sprocket follow from that.

To get the length right, count the links on the installed chain rather than measuring it pulled tight. An odd link count needs an offset link as well as the connecting link; an even count needs only the connecting link.

Send the full PHC part number, packaging block included, and how many boxes or meters you need. If you have no part number, give us the pitch measured from pin center to pin center, the inside width between plates, the roller diameter and the strand count, plus a photo of the chain laid beside a ruler. Tell us how many connecting and offset links you need and, if the sprockets are being replaced too, the tooth count and shaft diameter for each one.