In this study, multibody dynamic and mechanical analyses were conducted for the structure of roller chain bucket elevator system. The fatigue life of the roller chain elevator system was determined under static and fatigue loadings. Results of multibody dynamic analysis suggested that the maximum contact force occurred at the drive sprocket engagement point with the roller chain due to maximum tension. Fatigue analysis results suggest that the high load roller chain system is durable and safe because its life time is more than 700,000 cycles, close to its designed value (1,000,000 cycle). However, the contact portion of plate and pin needed a safety factor. The dynamic analysis of the heavy load roller chain was conducted with a multibody dynamic analysis program. The results obtained in this study can be utilized for dynamic analysis of roller chain systems in all industries.
