Understanding Half Pitch vs Full Pitch in Track Systems

[MikePhua]

When it comes to heavy equipment, particularly machinery with tracked systems like excavators, bulldozers, and skid steers, understanding the different types of pitch in track systems is essential for optimizing performance and longevity. In this article, we’ll explore the difference between half-pitch and full-pitch track systems, and how each impacts the operation and maintenance of your equipment.
What is Track Pitch?
Track pitch refers to the distance between the centers of two consecutive track links. This distance plays a critical role in the performance, durability, and comfort of tracked equipment. It affects how the track system engages with the ground, the wear on the track, and the load distribution across the machine.
There are two common types of track pitch: half-pitch and full-pitch. Each has its unique characteristics, and the choice of which to use depends on the equipment type, operational needs, and working environment.
Half Pitch Tracks
Half-pitch tracks are characterized by having a smaller distance between the centers of the track links compared to full-pitch tracks. Typically, the half-pitch distance is about half of the standard full-pitch measurement.
Benefits of Half Pitch Tracks:

1. Smoother Ride:
   • Because the track links are spaced closer together, half-pitch tracks result in a smoother ride, especially on uneven surfaces. This is particularly beneficial when operating on rough terrain, as it reduces the amount of jolting or bumping that the operator experiences.
     
2. Less Track Wear:
   • The shorter pitch helps distribute the weight more evenly across the track. This leads to less stress on individual links and can reduce the overall wear and tear on the track, extending its service life.
     
3. Improved Traction:
   • The closer spacing allows for better traction, especially in challenging conditions like mud, snow, or loose soil. The reduced gap between the track links helps the machine maintain better grip on the surface.
     
4. Better for Smaller Equipment:
   • Smaller machines, such as compact track loaders or mini-excavators, often use half-pitch tracks because they provide the agility and smooth operation required for tight workspaces or smaller jobs.
     

Drawbacks of Half Pitch Tracks:

1. Higher Maintenance Costs:
   • While half-pitch tracks provide a smoother ride, they may require more frequent maintenance. The increased number of track links means more components that can wear or need lubrication.
     
2. Reduced Speed:
   • Half-pitch tracks may slightly reduce the top speed of the machine due to increased friction and the finer track engagement. This can affect the overall speed of operation, especially when moving between job sites.
     

Full Pitch Tracks
Full-pitch tracks, on the other hand, have a greater distance between the centers of the track links. This means fewer track links per unit of length and a more spaced-out configuration.
Benefits of Full Pitch Tracks:

1. Increased Durability:
   • Full-pitch tracks generally have fewer components than half-pitch tracks, which leads to less wear and tear on individual links. The larger distance between links also helps to distribute the load more evenly, leading to increased durability in certain applications.
     
2. Lower Maintenance Requirements:
   • With fewer track links, full-pitch tracks typically require less maintenance. Fewer components mean fewer parts to replace or lubricate, which can result in lower maintenance costs over time.
     
3. Better for Larger Equipment:
   • Larger machines, such as bulldozers and full-sized excavators, tend to benefit more from full-pitch tracks. The increased durability and performance in rough, heavy-duty applications make full-pitch tracks a preferred choice for larger machines that are used in demanding environments like construction sites and quarries.
     

Drawbacks of Full Pitch Tracks:

1. Rougher Ride:
   • Full-pitch tracks, with their larger spacing between links, result in a rougher ride compared to half-pitch systems. This can cause more jolting or bouncing, particularly on uneven surfaces, and may reduce operator comfort over extended periods of use.
     
2. Increased Ground Pressure:
   • The increased distance between track links in full-pitch systems means that the weight of the machine is spread over fewer points. This can increase ground pressure and may not be as ideal in soft or loose ground conditions, where half-pitch tracks would offer better flotation and traction.
     
3. Lower Traction on Soft Terrain:
   • In softer conditions, such as mud or loose sand, full-pitch tracks may not perform as well as half-pitch tracks, as the spacing between the links does not allow the track to "dig in" and gain traction as effectively.
     

Choosing Between Half Pitch and Full Pitch
Choosing the right track pitch for your equipment depends on the type of work you’re doing and the operating conditions:

• Half-pitch tracks are generally preferred for smaller equipment and operations that require a smoother ride, improved traction, and better performance in soft or uneven terrain. They are also better for lighter machines or machines that work in sensitive environments where damage to the ground needs to be minimized.
  
• Full-pitch tracks are typically used on larger machines that are designed for rougher work environments and heavier loads. They are ideal for tasks that involve heavy digging, large earth-moving operations, or where durability and reduced maintenance are more important than ride comfort.
  

Conclusion
Understanding the difference between half-pitch and full-pitch tracks is crucial when selecting the right equipment for your needs. Whether you prioritize a smoother ride, better traction, or reduced maintenance, the choice of track pitch can significantly impact your machine's performance and longevity. By considering the size of your equipment, the type of terrain you'll be working on, and the nature of the job, you can make an informed decision on which track system best suits your needs.