Stefan Karp, a former mechanical engineering lecturer at Brunel University from Rushden in Northamptonshire, has invented a new type of roller chain made from polymers rather than metal. A possible replacement for roller chains used in bicycles, printing presses and cars, the polymer roller chain needs no lubrication, is corrosion-free, self-aligning and can be used under water.
Stefan Karp said: “It’s hugely exciting to be one of the finalists in this competition and I’m looking forward to seeing the range of ways this roller chain will be put into use. I originally designed it to be used in bicycles, due to it being oil-free and light, it is particularly suitable for children’s bicycles. But there are a range of possibilities for this product – it could improve the reliability and versatility of machinery as varied as photocopiers, cars, bottling plants and even pharmaceutical machinery.”
The roller chain is a finalist in the Make it Stronger category. There are five categories in total: Make it Stronger, Make it Smarter, Make it Sustainable, Make it Life changing and Make it Breakthrough (for 16-21 year old entrants only).
The winner of the competition will be announced in September.
Read more about the Make it in Great Britain competition here.