Cutting link for mining chain and mining pin retention system

Abstract

An improved cutting link and drive pin retention system for mining chains is disclosed. The cutting link is cast as a single piece instead of multiple parts welded together. The drive pin retention system further decreases the chance that the chain can break due to sheared dowel pins.

1 . A cutting link for a mining chain wherein said link comprises:
 a. a link body having a transverse bore at each longitudinal end and an integral outwardly projecting hub portion having an open bore sized to snugly receive the shank of a tool bit wherein said open bore has an axis disposed in angular relation to the length of said link body; and   b. a shank access gap defined by the space between said projecting hub portion and said link body which opens on one side of the link body and contiguous with said open bore;
 wherein said link body is integrally cast without requiring significant further milling or cutting. 
   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said bores are further hardened by induction hardening. 
     
     
         3 . A retention system for the drive pin of a chain wherein said retention system comprises:
 a. a drive pin having a pin head disposed at a first end and a fastener end at the second end, wherein said fastener end is configured to receive a retainer cap and has a drive pin hole in the side of said drive pin for interfacing with a locking mechanism of retainer cap;   b. said retainer cap having one end configured to receive the fastener end of the drive pin and said locking mechanism for securing said retainer cap to said drive pin.   
     
     
         4 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said locking mechanism is a rubber sandwich pin or a steel spring configured to interface with said drive pin hole. 
     
     
         5 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said locking mechanism is a castle nut or Hendrix pin secured by a cotter pin. 
     
     
         6 . The device of  claim 3  wherein said locking mechanism comprises a dowel pin having at least one notch that is capable of being secured by a c-shaped ring that closes around said notch.