Chain drive

I am looking to use a spinning weapon run by chain drive, how do I stop the motor from taking punishment every time the weapon hits something, is belt drive a better option although I would prefer to use chain and sprocket.

One method Ive been advised on is to turn off the power to the weapon motor a fraction before impact occurs, that way if the spinning blade hits an immoveable object, the motor wont be drawing current to try and continue to move it. This is the method Im probably gonna use to control my spinning drum - I looked at belts etc but the chain option was considerably cheaper.

Doing this though does mean that you need to be constantly monitoring the weapon and whats in front of you, and also keeping a finger on the switch. Plus, if your spinning weapon stops after its hit something, you need to allow time for it to spin up again. But it will punish your motor much less than having it constantly running would.

I will say, however, that Ive not yet built a spinner at all, so the current spinner guys will probably have better advice on more effective methods of achieving what youre after :)

The problem with chain drive to a disk is that it tends to be running a lot faster than a drive system. So the stopping forces on the chain are greater and the chain either jumps off or snaps, I have had both happen on DB5 using 6mm chain with the drum (2.5kg) doing nearly 4000rpm (theoretical speed). As well as what Jamie said about huge current draw.

Overall belts are a much better option as they will slip and not stall the motor. And if you user the right belts they will be less likely to jump off.

I am using timing belts on Hornet 2. A big 20mm wide, 8mm pitch belt. Probably way overkill but it is very effective at transmitting the power, I can put a bit of slack in the system with the tensioner I have installed and it is less likely to snap compared to a chain.

I would look at V-belts or timing belts. Some of the most efficient at transfering power.

I think im using the same as you Gary, but I would have to got and check.

copy cat :)

or just use heavier chain.
see vortex for example.

I use 6mm chain on DragonStrike. Like Ed says if you do not get them lined up perfect they tend to jump of the sprocket. Also it is a lot harder than you think to cut the power just before you hit your opponent in the heat of battle I do not bother anymore. I would change to belt drive if I could. But at one event I snaped the drive shaft on my EV warrior and had to weld it back on along with the sprocket so I am stuck with chain drive.

Could you tell me where would be the best place to get belts and pulleys from then please

i used quite a large chain in visceral (cant remember what size ill have to look) but it comes it stretched as anything after every fight. still havent worked out how to stop that..