As far back as the 16th century, Leonardo da Vinci sketched a mechanism recognisable as an early roller chain. His drawings showed plates – a concept that would take several centuries to become practical. By the late 1800s, when steel production and machining techniques improved, the first roller chain entered industrial use.
The defining innovation was the addition of rollers mounted over each bush so that they could rotate freely. This change has reduced friction between the chain and sprocket, improving efficiency and lifespan.
Read the full article in DPA's December 2025 issue