Armstrong / Alar Chain Products
Beaded Chains
While chains are commonly associated with links, various special applications use beaded chains. Beaded chains are formed by connecting hollow metal spheres to each other using short, dumbbell-like links. This type of chain finds common use as pull chains on closet light sockets, on heat and air conditioning diffusers, and other electronics. However, there are more beaded chain types and uses than these most widely recognized examples.
Beaded Chain Types and Materials
Sometimes referred to as ball chains, beaded chains come in various sizes. Each size is assigned a number:
- Light chains labeled #1 or #2 are common in fine jewelry and keychains.
- Chains labeled #3 or #6 are a bit heavier, used in military ID tags and toilet pull chains.
- Those labeled #8 or #10 are heavier still, used in vertical blinds and various plumbing and HVAC applications.
- Beaded chains labeled #13, #15, #20, #30, or #50 are progressively heavier and stronger, used in specialized industrial applications of various types.
Beaded Chain Couplings
Various beaded chains will use different couplings, depending on the intended application for the chain. There are four types of couplings, including:
- Type A. These are used primarily for splicing. They come offset at a variety of different angles.
- Type B. This type of coupling is used to attach the ends of beaded chains to add an endless number of lengths or form endless loops.
- Type D. These have the same function as type A couplings but can be offset in obtuse angles up to 140º.
- A Hooks. Used with a Type A coupling, attaching these hooks allows the user to hang and retain smaller objects by attaching them to the chain.
Beaded Chain Materials
Though the construction material used in beaded chains for fine jewelry typically includes precious metals like silver, gold, platinum, or others, the materials used in more common commercial or industrial beaded chains include:
- Brass
- Rich low brass
- Carbon steel
- Stainless steel
In addition to different materials, beaded chains come in multiple finishes, such as:
- Cleaned
- Polished
- Passivated
- Nickel or brass plated
Beaded Chains Uses and Industries
Beaded chains appear in a wide variety of forms and applications across industries. They usually come in the form of spool chains, endless loops, or as chain assemblies with a range of varied accessories. In these forms, they serve in a range of different applications such as:
- Controllers
- Fasteners
- Pull chains
- Fishing tackle
- Jewelry
- Military ID tags
- Musical instruments
A few industries that rely heavily on beaded chains include:
- Consumer products
- Window treatment
- Marine and plumbing
- Promotional products
Beaded chain assemblies necessarily include a number of additional accessories, such as:
- Couplings
- Splicing links
- Open and closed beads
- Detachable pendants
- End rings
Beaded Chains from Armstrong Alar
Beaded chains play an important role in a broad range of industrial and commercial applications. Armstrong Alar Corporation is a manufacturer and provider of high-quality beaded chains. We are experts when it comes to the various types and sizes of chains, and we carry a broad range of material types and accessories for beaded chain assemblies.
We distribute wholesale chains in varying lengths from 250–1000 feet. Our fabrication team has developed a reputation for accuracy and quick turnaround times in chain and chain accessory production since 1991. Our team will be happy to assist you in selecting the appropriate beaded chain size and material for your application.
Contact us to learn more about the beaded chain solutions available from Armstrong Alar Corporation.
Contact Us
Beaded Chains
Beaded Chains are available now for purchase and we can accomodate almost any size order and have it delivered anywhere in the U.S.
items in one working day
Contact Us
Expert advice is just a phone call away