Overview
ISO 487:1998 - Steel roller chains, types S and C, attachments and sprockets - defines the dimensional, mechanical and marking characteristics for a family of steel roller chains and their associated sprockets and attachment plates. It covers chains derived from malleable-iron types intended for industries such as agriculture, building, quarrying, mechanical handling and related applications. This third edition introduced higher-strength “H” series chains and new F4 attachments while removing obsolete corn-picker fittings.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Chain types and designation: Type S and type C chains are designated by ISO chain numbers (see table 1); dimensions and interchangeability limits are specified.
- Dimensions & interchangeability: Pitch, roller diameter, pin/body dimensions, plate depth and other critical dimensions are defined to ensure interchangeability between manufacturers.
- Minimum tensile strength: A destructive tensile test procedure is specified; the published minimum tensile strengths are comparative values (see table 1). The standard notes that tensile strength is not a working load - consult manufacturers for application fatigue and working load data.
- Pre-loading & length measurement: Chains should be pre-load tested (recommended at least one third of the minimum tensile strength). Finished chains are measured after pre-loading, under defined measuring loads, and with specified length tolerances.
- Attachments: Dimensions and forms for attachment plates (F1, F4, K1, M1) are standardized, including bolt-hole layouts, platform heights and limits for plate length to avoid interference.
- Cranked links & marking: Rules for cranked links (odd-pitch chains), and required marking (manufacturer name/trademark; ISO chain number recommended).
- Sprockets: Material guidance (grey cast iron grade per ISO 185 is suitable), tooth forms for cast/flame-cut or machined sprockets, tooth profile and root/tip/shroud diameter rules. Root diameter measurement via “measurement over pins” is referenced (Annex A).
- Tolerances & special notes: Tolerance guidance for tooth width, depth and root diameter; options for side relief or chamfers where foreign-matter build-up is expected.
Applications and who uses ISO 487
- Chain and sprocket manufacturers use the standard to design and certify product dimensions and strength.
- OEMs and machine designers in agriculture, conveyors, material handling, quarrying and construction rely on ISO 487 to specify compatible chains, attachments and sprockets.
- Maintenance engineers and procurement use the standard to verify replacement parts, ensure interchangeability and select appropriate attachment types (pushers, slat attachments, staybars).
- ** drivetrain and power-transmission specialists** reference the sprocket tooth profiles and tolerances for reliable chain engagement and wear life.
Related standards
- ISO 606:1994 - Transmission roller chains (short-pitch precision) - referenced for machined tooth forms.
- ISO 185:1988 - Grey cast iron classification - referenced for recommended sprocket material grades.
ISO 487 remains a practical reference for specifying steel roller chains, chain attachments and sprockets where dimensional interchangeability, minimum tensile testing and standardized attachment forms are required.
