Sunday, January 13, 2013

Low-Profile Chains and Standard Chains


While looking for a 3/8" chain with a .050-inch gauge, one might ask what is the difference between a 3/8" low profile chain and a standard 3/8" chain.

Today I will try and help you understand that difference.

Low Profile Chains were developed in the early to mid 1970s and later incorporated the standard low kickback safety standards required by ANSI.

There are 2 pitches for the low profile chains 1/4" and 3/8".

The low Profile chain is lighter in weight and size requiring less power to operate and is design was for both electric and gas powered chainsaws with engine sizes up to 42cc.

A standard chain is designed for chainsaws with engine sizes 50cc and up.

The primary difference between a low profile and standard 3/8" pitch, .050" Gauge can be found in the cutter height and the height of the drive link.

If you are uncertain as to whether your chain is a low profile or not you can print out the chain reference PDF located in our how to section.

Make sure you printer option is set to actual size when printing.
Match your chain to the chain on the chain reference chart.  Chains with the red colored numbers are low profile. Chains with the white numbers are standard.

The next question one may ask is can a low-profile chain fit on a chainsaw bar designed for a standard chain. Providing the pitch and gauge is the same the technical answer is yes. However we do not recommend this as the gap between the chain and the bar will require more oil demand and increase debris build up.

A standard chain will not fit on a chainsaw bar designed for a low profile chain.

I hope this video was helpful. If you have any question please email us at info@chainsawshed.com and for our chain reference page click the link below scroll down until you see our pdf list.

2 comments:

  1. Clear info, thanks. Now I understand. I'll print the PDF. I'll come back to your site often. I recently got a 3/8" .050 LP rip chain to run on my Stihl 020 AV which has a 3/8" .050 55 DL Rollomatic (sprocket nose) bar. Some of my Stihl new chain packages say "Picco". My two 3/8" .050 bars are 55 DL, and 50 DL (16" and 14"). I can interchange between my 020 AV and my Stihl E180 electric saw.
    I'm wondering if I can find a standard 3/8" .050 rip chain. This LP chain rips thru EWP 6" thick steadily, using a Granberg Mini Mill. It's a VG quality fence/rip system. But it seems to clog up w fine sawdust rapidly, some as you mention, in the bar groove, and in all the chain links. I rip larger cuts and hardwoods w my Stihl 090 AV w .404 .063 rip chain using the Granberg Alaska Mill. Makes fine sawdust also.
    Steve

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