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81X Chain Sprockets

81X Chain Sprockets


We offer a wide selection of 81X roller chain sprockets, precision-manufactured from high-quality materials for reliable performance and long service life.

Options include steel and cast sprockets, plus 303, 304, and 316 stainless steel and plastic sprockets for washdown applications.

Our 81X sprockets work with the following chain sizes: 81X, 81XH, 81XHH, 81XHD, 81XXHD, 81XHS, 81X-RT, 81XHT

Note: Our sprockets interchange with other brands!

Common configurations for 81X sprockets include A-plate, which is a simple plate sprocket; B-hub, which has a hub on one side; C-hub, which has a hub on both sides; and idler configurations.

Split construction is also available for both A- and B-hub-style sprockets. Split sprockets are becoming a popular choice for many facilities since they’re easier to replace, despite the higher upfront cost.

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81X Chain Sprocket Dimensions

To find the dimensions for your sprocket, select the tooth count for your configuration in the chart below.

A-Plate B-Hub C-Hub B-Split Sprockets C-Split Sprockets Idler Sprockets Plastic Sprockets
81XA7 81XB7 81XC7 SPLIT-81XB7 SPLIT-81XC7 7-TOOTH 5-TOOTH
81XA8 81XB8 81XC8 SPLIT-81XB8 SPLIT-81XC8 8-TOOTH 6-TOOTH
81XA9 81XB9 81XC9 SPLIT-81XB9 SPLIT-81XC9 9-TOOTH 8-TOOTH
81XA10 81XB10 81XC10 SPLIT-81XB10 SPLIT-81XC10 10-TOOTH 9-TOOTH
81XA11 81XB11 81XC11 SPLIT-81XB11 SPLIT-81XC11 11-TOOTH 10-TOOTH
81XA12 81XB12 81XC12 SPLIT-81XB12 SPLIT-81XC12 12-TOOTH 12-TOOTH
81XA13 81XB13 81XC13 SPLIT-81XB13 SPLIT-81XC13 13-TOOTH 13-TOOTH
81XA14 81XB14 81XC14 SPLIT-81XB14 SPLIT-81XC14 14-TOOTH 14-TOOTH
81XA15 81XB15 81XC15 SPLIT-81XB15 SPLIT-81XC15 15-TOOTH --
81XA16 81XB16 81XC16 SPLIT-81XB16 SPLIT-81XC16 16-TOOTH --
81XA17 81XB17 81XC17 SPLIT-81XB17 SPLIT-81XC17 17-TOOTH --
81XA18 81XB18 81XC18 SPLIT-81XB18 SPLIT-81XC18 18-TOOTH --
81XA19 81XB19 81XC19 SPLIT-81XB19 SPLIT-81XC19 19-TOOTH --
81XA20 81XB20 81XC20 SPLIT-81XB20 SPLIT-81XC20 20-TOOTH --

Note: Plastic and stainless steel 81X sprockets are also available upon request.

Additional 81X Sprocket Types

We also supply the below configurations for 81X sprockets.

81X Hooked Tooth Sprockets

Sprocket Size Tooth Count Style Outside Diameter Hub Diameter Length Thru Bore Stock Bore Max Bore
81X-B8RH 8 B 6.5" 2.375" 1.625" 1" 1.5"
81X-B8LH 8 B 6.5" 2.375" 1.625" 1" 1.5"


81X C-Hub Sprockets
Sprocket Size Tooth Count Style Outside Diameter Hub Diameter Length Thru Bore Stock Bore Max Bore
81XC7 7 C 5.75" 2.375" 2.375" 0.75" 1.5"
81XC8 8 C 6.75" 2.375" 2.375" 0.75" 1.5"
81XC9 9 C 7.438" 2.375" 2.375" 0.75" 1.5"


81X Star Gear Sprocket

Sprocket Size Tooth Count Style Outside Diameter Hub Diameter Length Thru Bore Stock Bore Max Bore
81X-SG510 10 B 4.484" 2.375" 2" 1" 1.5"


Please note that 81X sprockets work with a much wider variety of chains besides 81X series.

Cast sprockets are compatible with the following sizes: 75, 78, 88, H78, H79, BRH, 188, C188 conveyor chain, SS188, 78, MXS882, MSR1288, 433-1/2, H74, H75, H78A rooftop chain, H78B rooftop chain, H78SR, BRH188 conveyor chain, MW188RT, 488 pintle chain, SS578, and 81X.

Steel sprockets are compatible with the following sizes: 78, H74, 75, H75, H78LR, H75RT, H78SR, H79, 88, 188, S188, S78, R588, RR588, R778, RR778, 988, IS880, 87R, IS881, 81X, IS882, 433-1/2, LXS881, LXS886, US881, LXS887, LXS882, 488 pintle chain, XS578, SS188, C188 conveyor chain, US278R, US882, 578R, and 588R.

81X Chain Sprocket Compatibility Factors

For a chain sprocket to do its job well, everything needs to line up.

The sprocket should match both the 81X roller chain and the equipment it’s running on, with factors like chain pitch, tooth count, shaft size, and operating conditions all playing a part.

Here are the key compatibility factors to keep on your checklist:

  • Chain size and pitch: Ensure the sprocket is designed for an 81X chain, which has a 2.609-inch pitch. The tooth profile should also match the chain dimensions for proper engagement.
  • Number of teeth: Tooth count affects the sprocket diameter, chain speed, and drive ratio, so it’s important to choose a configuration that works with your system.
  • Bore and shaft size: The sprocket bore should match your equipment’s shaft or accommodate the appropriate bushing or bore configuration.
  • Hub configuration: Depending on your equipment, you might need a specific hub style, such as a finished bore, taper-bushed, or weld-on configuration.
  • System configuration: Consider how the sprocket fits into the overall drive or conveyor setup, including alignment, operating speed, and load requirements.
  • Material and operating conditions: Consider the environment where the sprocket will operate. Steel, hardened-teeth and other options might be better suited to different loads, wear levels, and operating conditions.

81X Chain Sprocket Applications

These chain sprockets tend to show up where there’s plenty of material to move and little room for downtime.

Paired with an 81X roller chain, they help keep conveyor and drive systems moving through demanding, repetitive operations.

You’ll commonly find these chain sprockets used in:

  • Conveyor systems: Used to move products, materials, and heavy loads along production and processing lines.
  • Agricultural equipment: Found in machinery that handles crops, feed, and other bulk agricultural materials.
  • Material handling equipment: Supports systems designed to transport bulk or heavy materials from one stage of an operation to another.
  • Industrial machinery: Works with a range of drive and conveying systems that require dependable power transmission under regular or demanding loads.
  • Food processing equipment: Used in suitable conveyor and handling systems where consistent material movement is essential.

How To Choose 81X Chain Sprockets

The right chain sprockets keep your conveyor running smoothly and help prevent unnecessary wear.

Before ordering, work through a few key details:

1. Start With Your Chain

First, confirm that the sprocket is specifically designed for 81X chain. Check the chain size and manufacturer specifications rather than assuming a similar-looking sprocket will work.

2. Get the Tooth Count

Right Tooth count affects how the chain moves around the sprocket.

If you’re replacing an existing sprocket and don’t need to change the system’s performance, matching the original tooth count is usually the simplest approach.

3. Match the Bore to Your Shaft

Check the shaft diameter and determine whether you need a finished bore, plain bore, or another configuration.

Don’t forget details such as the keyway and set screw, as they matter when it comes to securing the sprocket properly.

4. Consider the Load and Operating Conditions

Think about what your conveyor deals with every day.

Heavy loads, frequent operation, abrasive debris, moisture, and harsh environments can influence the sprocket material and construction you need.

5. Check Your Available Space

A sprocket might match the chain size and bore but still not fit your equipment properly.

Before ordering, check the outside diameter, hub dimensions, and available clearance to make sure everything fits as it should.

6. Inspect the Chain While You’re at It

Replacing a worn sprocket? Give your roller chain a good look, too.

Excessive chain wear or elongation can quickly wear down a new sprocket, while a badly worn sprocket can shorten the life of a new chain.

7. Double-Check Before You Order

Finally, compare the chain size, tooth count, bore, hub style, dimensions, and material with your equipment requirements.

A few minutes spent checking the details can save you from ordering a sprocket that almost fits, which, unfortunately, is still the same as not fitting.

81X Chain Sprockets: FAQs

What are 81X chain sprockets used for?

81X chain sprockets are built to work with conveyor chains in material handling systems.

You’ll commonly see them in applications such as lumber, agriculture, conveying, and other equipment that moves bulky or heavy materials.

What is the standard 81X chain pitch?

The standard 81X chain pitch is 2.609 inches, measured from the center of one pin to the next.

That pitch is important because the sprocket teeth need to line up precisely with the chain for smooth engagement.

What 81X chain dimensions should I check when choosing a sprocket?

Start with the pitch, then check the roller diameter and inside width.

Confirming the key chain dimensions against the sprocket specifications helps prevent poor fit, excessive wear, and premature replacement.

Can changing the tooth count on an 81X sprocket affect my conveyor?

Yes. Changing the tooth count can impact chain speed, torque, and how smoothly the roller chain travels around the sprocket.

More teeth can also create a smoother chain path, but any change should work with your equipment’s speed, space, and load requirements.

Are 81X chain sprockets available in different materials?

Yes. You can find them in steel, cast iron, stainless steel, and plastic.

Each material has its strengths, so the best choice depends on where and how the sprocket will be used.

For example, stainless steel and plastic work well for washdown applications, while steel is a solid choice for demanding industrial environments.

What types of 81X chain sprockets are available?

There are several configurations to choose from, including A-plate, B-hub, C-hub, idler, and split sprockets. Each one is designed to work with different equipment setups and mounting needs.

Split sprockets are also becoming a popular option because they can be easier to replace, even though they typically come with a higher upfront cost.

When should I replace my 81X chain sprockets?

Take a close look at the teeth. If they appear hooked, sharp, uneven, or noticeably worn, your sprocket is most likely ready for retirement.

Running a new roller chain on badly worn sprockets can speed up chain wear, so it often makes sense to inspect both at the same time.

Requesting 81X-Series Sprockets

To get a quote on 81X-Series Sprocket simply fill out the request for quote from and someone from our customer service team will contact you. Please note that if you don't see the sprocket size you need above send us an email or give us a call.



Company Name:
Contact Name:
Email Address:
Phone Number:
Sprocket Size:
Chain Size:
Tooth Count:
Hub Type (A-plate, B-Hub, C-Hub, other):
Length Thru Bore:
Bore Size/ Type (plain, finished w/ key-way & set screws, or other):
Preferred Material (steel, cast, or other):
Quantity Needed:

Additional Information or Notes:


Please enter the following code into the box provided:
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Frequently Asked Questions

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