Escalator chain is not one-size-fits-all. Even chains with similar specifications can perform differently under load.
Choosing the right replacement escalator chain starts with understanding your equipment. Chain requirements can vary between Montgomery, KONE, and O&K escalators, and even between individual jobs.
This guide explains how to identify the correct escalator chain, why OEM specifications matter, what an independent laboratory analysis found in one aftermarket chain, and what to ask suppliers before purchasing.
How Do I Choose the Right Escalator Chain?
Start with the job file information for your equipment.
Escalator chain specifications can vary from one installation to another. Selecting replacement chain based on appearance or general specifications alone may not account for equipment-specific requirements.
KONE Spares USA uses job file information to help identify the appropriate OEM escalator chain for Montgomery, KONE, and O&K equipment.
Matching chain to the equipment helps support proper fit and compatibility with the surrounding components.
Why Does the Escalator Chain Source Matter?
Replacement escalator chain must be compatible with the components it operates alongside.
KONE Spares OEM chain and steps are designed and manufactured to match the operating requirements of mating components, including:
- Bull gears
- Lower reversing stations
- Load support curves
Manufacturing tolerances, material properties, and component finishes can affect how chain interacts with these parts.
Selecting components that meet applicable safety code requirements and OEM specifications can also help reduce the potential for premature wear and associated maintenance costs.
What Did an Independent Lab Find in Aftermarket Escalator Chain?
In one independent laboratory analysis, a tested aftermarket escalator chain failed at 35,000 lb, below its stated 41,000 lb rating.
The tested product was marketed as a replacement for KONE’s US67884 escalator chain.
According to the analysis, a breaking load test conducted on a five-link chain strand resulted in failure at 35,000 lb.
The laboratory report concluded that the tested chain did not meet the load and factor-of-safety requirements referenced in ANSI A17.1-2013, Rule 6.1.3.10.2.
The analysis also identified several differences between the tested aftermarket chain and KONE Spares OEM chain.
1. Plate Cutting
The tested aftermarket chain used laser-cut plates, while KONE chain components are machine-stamped.
The analysis identified differences in manufacturing precision that may affect component fit and alignment.
2. Anti-Rotation Features
The aftermarket chain used round holes that lacked the anti-rotation flats found in KONE chain.
These flats are designed to help prevent step pins from rotating during operation.
3. Contact Area
According to the analysis, up to 15% of the contact area between the outer link plate and retainer clip was missing.
The report identified this difference as a potential concern for press-fit integrity.
4. Chain Skew
Under load, the tested aftermarket chain exhibited up to 10 mm of skew between its ends.
This misalignment may contribute to uneven loading and component wear.
5. Pin Hardness
The analysis found that the surface hardness of the aftermarket chain pins extended to a depth approximately twice that referenced by the applicable industry specifications.
According to the report, this condition may increase the potential for brittle pin behavior.
6. Protection Rollers
The tested aftermarket rollers exhibited surface-finish and hardness differences compared with KONE specifications.
The analysis indicated that these characteristics could contribute to accelerated wear of:
- Bull gears
- Lower reversing station sprockets
- Load support curves
Important context: These findings apply to the specific aftermarket chain evaluated in the laboratory analysis. They should not be interpreted as representative of all aftermarket escalator chains.
Can Escalator Chain Problems Damage Other Components?
Yes. Chain misalignment and differences in roller hardness or surface finish can contribute to wear in surrounding escalator components.
According to the laboratory analysis, manufacturing tolerances in the tested chain contributed to skew under load.
The report indicated that this condition could produce uneven loading and excessive wear across the step band.
Rollers with unsuitable surface finishes or hardness characteristics may also contribute to wear of bull gears, lower reversing station sprockets, and load support curves.
These findings highlight why chain compatibility involves more than matching basic dimensions.
What Should I Ask an Escalator Chain Supplier?
Before purchasing replacement escalator chain, ask suppliers for documentation supporting product compatibility, testing, and applicable safety requirements.
KONE Spares recommends considering the following questions when evaluating non-OEM chain and steps.
1. Can you provide independent laboratory testing documentation?
Ask whether testing demonstrates compliance with applicable design factors of safety and fatigue requirements under ASME A17.1/CSA B44.
2. Can you document compatibility with the original equipment?
Request technical documentation supporting the supplier’s claim that its replacement chain meets the relevant OEM specifications.
3. Can you verify material properties and component finishes?
Ask for documentation addressing steel hardness, chain bushing surface finishes, and other relevant manufacturing specifications.
4. What liability protections does the supplier provide?
Ask about warranties, indemnification provisions, and responsibility for claims associated with the replacement product.
Review these terms with the appropriate legal or purchasing representatives before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there one escalator chain that fits every Montgomery, KONE, or O&K escalator?
No. Escalator chain specifications can vary between equipment models and individual installations. KONE Spares USA uses job file information to help identify the appropriate OEM chain.
What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket escalator chain?
OEM escalator chain is manufactured to the original equipment manufacturer’s specifications. Aftermarket chain is supplied by another manufacturer and should be evaluated for compatibility, material properties, and applicable safety requirements.
What did the independent laboratory test find?
The tested aftermarket chain had a stated breaking-load rating of 41,000 lb but failed at 35,000 lb. The laboratory analysis concluded that the tested product did not meet the referenced requirements of ANSI A17.1-2013, Rule 6.1.3.10.2.
These results apply only to the specific product tested.
Can the wrong escalator chain cause premature component wear?
Potentially. Chain misalignment, manufacturing tolerances, and roller characteristics can affect how replacement chain interacts with surrounding components.
The laboratory analysis identified conditions that could contribute to wear of bull gears, lower reversing station sprockets, and load support curves.
What documentation should I request before buying aftermarket escalator chain?
Ask suppliers for:
- Independent laboratory testing documentation
- Evidence of compliance with applicable safety requirements
- Technical documentation supporting OEM compatibility
- Material hardness and surface-finish specifications
- Warranty and indemnification information
Get the Right OEM Escalator Chain for Your Equipment
Not sure which replacement escalator chain your equipment requires?
Contact the chain experts at KONE Spares USA to match the right OEM chain to your Montgomery, KONE, or O&K equipment. Visit the OEM Escalator Chain page or call 1-800-343-3344.