DONGHUA guide
What Donghua Manufactures and What Sets It Apart
Donghua specializes in roller chains for mechanical power transmission. These chains are designed to transmit motion between parallel shafts via sprockets, offering a robust and efficient solution for a wide range of industrial applications.
The main line sold in Argentina is the ASA series, which follows the ANSI standard. This standard defines standardized dimensions for pitch, roller diameter, and inner width, allowing compatibility with sprockets and chains from other brands of the same standard.
Donghua offers chains in single, double, and triple configurations, identified with suffixes /2 and /3 respectively. It also has heavy series variants (suffix H) for applications demanding greater strength.
Donghua Lines Sold by MR
At MR Accesorios Industriales we work with Donghua's Power Transmission line, specifically in the Roller Chains subcategory. In the online catalog, each reference has its photo and technical data sheet.
The Donghua chains we sell cover a wide range of pitches, from the smallest such as ASA 35 to the largest such as ASA 200, in single and multiple strand versions. This allows serving from light applications to high-load transmissions.
Main Donghua Series
The most common series in the Argentine market is ASA, identified by the number following the letters. The first digits indicate the chain pitch in eighths of an inch: for example, ASA 40 has a pitch of 4/8 = 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). Below we detail the series.
ASA Series
It is the standard roller chain series according to ANSI standard. It is used in a wide variety of industrial applications, from conveyors to agricultural machinery. Catalog codes include ASA 35, ASA 40, ASA 41, ASA 50, ASA 60, ASA 80, and ASA 140.
Within this series, suffixes /2 and /3 indicate double and triple strand configurations, which increase load capacity while maintaining the same pitch. For example, ASA 50/2 is a double chain with 5/8 inch pitch.
ASA H Series (Heavy)
The letter H at the end of the code indicates a heavy series chain, with thicker plates than the standard version. This makes it suitable for applications with high loads or severe working conditions. Examples: ASA 50/H, ASA 60/H, ASA 80/H.
How to Read a Donghua Code
The designation of Donghua chains follows the ANSI standard and consists of numbers and letters indicating size and configuration. Understanding this nomenclature is key to selecting the correct chain and avoiding errors when replacing.
The first digits after ASA indicate the pitch of the chain in eighths of an inch. For example, ASA 40 has a pitch of 4/8 = 1/2 inch (12.7 mm); the last digit distinguishes the chain type (0 standard, 1 light). Suffixes /2 and /3 indicate double or triple strand, and the letter H indicates heavy series.
Example: ASA 35
ASA 35 corresponds to a pitch of 3/8 inch (9.52 mm), with rollers of 5.08 mm diameter and inner width of 4.78 mm. It is a small-sized chain, suitable for light loads and moderate speeds.
Example: ASA 40
ASA 40 has a pitch of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm), rollers of 7.92 mm, and inner width of 7.95 mm. It is one of the most used sizes in industry for conveyors and general machinery.
Example: ASA 50/2
ASA 50/2 is a double strand chain with a pitch of 5/8 inch (15.87 mm). The bar and 2 indicate it has two rows of plates and rollers, which increases load capacity compared to the single version ASA 50 (almost double).
Frequent Donghua Prefixes and Suffixes
Donghua codes may include suffixes that modify the chain's characteristics. The most common are:
/2 and /3: indicate double and triple strand chains respectively. For example, ASA 60/3 is a triple chain with 3/4 inch pitch.
H: indicates heavy series, with thicker plates. For example, ASA 80/H.
No suffix: corresponds to the standard single chain of the ASA series.
Applications by Industry in Argentina
Donghua chains are used in a wide variety of industries in Argentina. Below we detail the main applications by sector.
Metallurgical
In the metallurgical industry, Donghua chains are used in chip conveyors, roller tables, and drive systems for heavy machinery. Heavy series (H) versions are suitable for these demanding environments.
Agricultural
In the agricultural sector, they are used in seeders, harvesters, augers, and grain conveyors. Medium-pitch ASA chains such as ASA 50 and ASA 60 are common in these applications.
Naval
In the naval industry, roller chains are used in cranes, deck equipment, and auxiliary conveyors. Corrosion resistance and robustness are key factors, so it is advisable to protect them with frequent lubrication and maintenance.
Oil
In the oil sector, Donghua chains are applied in auxiliary drives for pumps, compressors, and service equipment. Multiple strand versions are useful for transmitting higher loads.
Food
In the food industry, chains are used in packaging lines, bottle conveyors, and processing equipment. Cleanliness and lubrication are important, with food-grade lubricants when the process requires it.
Mining
In mining, roller chains are used in ore conveyors and feeders. Large pitch chains such as ASA 100 or ASA 140 are suitable for these demanding conditions.
Paper
In the paper industry, chains are used in auxiliary drives for paper machines and roll transport systems. High fatigue resistance and dimensional precision are required.
Cement
In cement plants, Donghua chains are applied in bucket elevators, clinker conveyors, and auxiliary equipment. Heavy series chains are chosen when material abrasiveness and load require it.
Energy
In the energy sector, they are used in biomass conveyors, pumping systems, and auxiliary equipment. Reliability and low maintenance are priorities.
Automotive
In the automotive industry, roller chains are used in assembly lines, parts conveyors, and machinery drive systems. Precision and durability are essential.
Plastics
In the plastics industry, chains are used in parts conveyors and granule transport systems. Chains resistant to temperature and chemicals are required.
Refrigeration
In refrigeration plants, chains are used in meat conveyors, slaughter systems, and cold equipment. They must withstand low temperatures and humidity.
Sugar
In the sugar industry, chains are used in cane conveyors, mills, and diffusers. Large pitch and high-strength chains are necessary to withstand heavy loads and corrosive environments.
How to Choose the Correct Donghua
To select the appropriate Donghua chain, it is essential to consider the following criteria:
Load to transmit: determines the pitch and number of strands. For high loads, it is recommended to use larger pitch chains or double/triple configurations.
Operating speed: at higher speeds, attention must be paid to lubrication and wear. Small pitch chains are more suitable for high speeds.
Environmental conditions: in environments with dust, humidity, or chemicals, a suitable material or surface treatment must be chosen.
Available space: the pitch and width of the chain must be compatible with the sprockets and mounting space.
Maintenance: if access for lubrication is difficult, an automatic lubrication system can be considered.
Equivalences and Interchangeability
Donghua ASA series chains are dimensionally compatible with chains from other brands of the same ANSI standard and the same code. This means that, for example, a Donghua ASA 40 chain can replace an ASA 40 from another brand without modifying the sprockets.
In our catalog, you can find direct equivalents with the EMMAR brand for several codes. For example, ASA 40/2 from Donghua is equivalent to ASA 40/2 from EMMAR, and ASA 60 from Donghua is equivalent to ASA 60 from EMMAR.
It is important to compare not only the code but also the load and material specifications, especially in critical applications. If in doubt, our technical team can help you verify the equivalence.
Common Mistakes When Replacing or Buying Donghua
One of the most common mistakes is confusing the chain pitch. For example, ASA 40 and ASA 41 have the same pitch (1/2 inch), but the inner width is different, so they are not interchangeable.
Another mistake is not considering the number of strands. A single chain cannot replace a double one without modifying the sprockets and transmission.
It is also common to ignore the H suffix. A standard chain may not withstand the load of an application requiring heavy series, leading to premature failures.
To avoid these problems, always verify the complete code and, if possible, measure the pitch and inner width of the old chain before buying.
Assembly, Lubrication, and Maintenance
Correct assembly and maintenance are essential to prolong the service life of Donghua chains. Below are some tips:
Assembly: ensure that the shafts are aligned and the sprockets are correctly positioned. Chain tension should be adequate: neither too loose nor too tight.
Lubrication: apply lubricant regularly, especially at the articulation points. In dusty environments, use lubricants with anti-wear additives and clean the chain periodically.
Inspection: periodically check the wear of pins and bushings. If elongation exceeds 3% of the original pitch, it is time to replace the chain.
Storage: store chains in a dry, clean place, protected from corrosion.
Why Get a Donghua Quote at MR Accesorios Industriales
At MR Accesorios Industriales, based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, we work with the Donghua brand and offer technical advice on its ASA roller chains.
Our online catalog allows you to search by code, view photos and specifications, and request a quote quickly. In addition, our technical team can help you identify the correct chain from a sample or measurements.
If you need a Donghua chain, contact us via WhatsApp or email with the code, measurement, or a photo of the part. We will provide a quote shortly.
Frequently asked questions about DONGHUA
- Is Donghua a good chain brand?
- Donghua manufactures roller chains with standardized dimensions according to ANSI. Its ASA chains are used in Argentine industry in conveyors, agricultural machinery, and general drives.
- Where to buy Donghua chains in Argentina?
- You can buy Donghua chains at MR Accesorios Industriales, located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We sell the ASA series in various sizes and configurations. Contact us via WhatsApp or email for a quote.
- How do I know which Donghua chain I need?
- You must identify the chain pitch, inner width, and number of strands. If you have the old chain, measure the pitch (distance between pin centers) and compare with the ASA code table. You can also send us a photo and we will help.
- Are Donghua chains interchangeable with other brands?
- Yes, Donghua ASA series chains are dimensionally compatible with other brands of the same ANSI standard and the same code. For example, a Donghua ASA 60 is equivalent to an EMMAR ASA 60.
- What does the /2 suffix mean in a Donghua chain?
- The /2 suffix indicates that the chain is double strand, meaning it has two rows of plates and rollers. This increases load capacity (almost double) compared to the single version of the same pitch.
- What is the difference between ASA 40 and ASA 41?
- Both have the same pitch of 1/2 inch, but differ in inner width and roller diameter. ASA 40 has an inner width of 7.95 mm and roller of 7.92 mm, while ASA 41 has an inner width of 6.35 mm and roller of 7.77 mm. They are not interchangeable.
- How are Donghua chains lubricated?
- It is recommended to lubricate periodically with oil or grease suitable for chains, applying at the articulation points. In dusty environments, it is important to clean the chain before lubricating to avoid abrasive wear.
- How long does a Donghua chain last?
- Service life depends on load, speed, lubrication, and environmental conditions. With proper maintenance, a chain can last thousands of hours. It is recommended to replace it when elongation exceeds 3% of the original pitch.
Updated September 29, 2026