Chains & Sprockets
Chain Center Distance Calculator
Back-calculate the approximate center distance for a two-sprocket roller-chain drive from selected chain length.
Inputs
Formula
Inverse two-sprocket chain-length approximation
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator, the same formula gives the following result. This is a quick sanity check for the calculation, not a design recommendation.
Inputs
- Chain length
- 120 pitches
- Driver sprocket teeth
- 19 teeth
- Driven sprocket teeth
- 57 teeth
- Chain pitch
- 12.7 mm
Result
- Approximate center distance
- 514.97 mm
Related calculators
Continue your workflow with a related calculation.
Chains & Sprockets
Chain Length Calculator
Estimate roller-chain length in pitches from sprocket teeth, center distance, and chain pitch.
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Sprocket Ratio Calculator
Calculate chain-drive speed ratio from driver and driven sprocket tooth counts.
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Chain Speed Calculator
Calculate roller-chain linear speed from chain pitch, sprocket teeth, and RPM.
Frequently asked questions
Should chain length be an even number of pitches?
An even pitch count is commonly preferred because odd lengths may require an offset or cranked link.
Is this exact for installation?
It is an engineering approximation for a two-sprocket drive. Allow for tension adjustment and verify against manufacturer guidance.