Importance

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Abstract

An endless chain in which there is one row of a plurality of H-shaped link elements across the width of the chain and an adjacent row of similar elements, the legs of the Hs of adjacent rows being interdigitated and provided with aligned openings which receive a connecting pin. This arrangement is continued along the length of the chain to whatever extent is desired. Bit carrying lugs are mounted on the H-shaped link elements so as to establish any bit pattern desired. The H-shaped link elements may be provided with bit carrying lugs that are skewed with respect to the direction of chain travel so as to make the chain more efficient. Such link elements may also be provided with load bearing lugs at their sides so as to give increased support for the chain. The arrangement of link elements is such that, in order to shorten the length of the chain to accommodate for slack occasioned by wear, a pair of adjacent rows of H-shaped link elements may be removed and replaced by either appropriately off-set H-shaped link elements and spacers, H-shaped link elements make possible the provision of an unusually sturdy chain requiring only a minimum number of major chain parts so that the mine owner or operator need stock only a relatively small number of parts, both as to type and as to overall quantity.

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First Claim