In this article we will talk about one of the types of special chains designed for fastening and holding various objects. We will talk about the army chain. Its design is based on the principle of connecting small balls through which a steel rod passes. Consistently connecting to each other, they form a whole flexible strip of small balls. If a special lock is not used to close it, it is quite difficult to determine the ends of the chain.
How to disconnect an army chain without harming it
Typically, such a product is used for hanging various objects; in the army, for example, a military badge is attached to it. Sometimes situations arise when it is necessary to remove, add or replace a token; to do this, it is necessary to disconnect the chain links. In this case, you can use the following methods:
- When purchasing, choose a mount with a lock for ease of wearing. In the event of opening and closing, you will be able to use this fastener to maintain integrity;
- If the lock is missing, you will have to disassemble the links. To do this, you need to disassemble any link by cutting through the steel rod with pliers or breaking the ball. But after this you will have to connect the chain, we will talk about this in more detail later;
- Depending on the degree of strength, in some cases you can do without wire cutters. It is enough to grab two balls and pull them in different directions, so you will damage only the two extreme links, while the rest of the chain will maintain its integrity.
It is worth choosing a method depending on the value of the product and the need to preserve it. You can disconnect the chain and save its links, but you will have to use special equipment to solder the rod.
How to Maintain Integrity When Disconnecting
One of the important issues when opening a chain is the retention of the core and the ability to reconnect the product. Of course, various recovery methods can be used. They will differ in the level of complexity and the set of tools needed to complete all the actions. The fastest and easiest to implement are the options for gluing parts. But this will not give the previous strength to the product. In addition, the product can become disconnected at any time, which will lead to the loss of the decoration.
Therefore, it is necessary to think about a more reliable method of fastening. They involve the use of a special set of tools and equipment, but their use will help restore the integrity of the chain and easily connect the links during further operation. We will talk about this in more detail in the next section.
The best ways to secure a chain
Among the most reliable methods of re-fixation are the following options:
- Soldering the rod to adjacent links using a soldering iron. This method will allow you to fix the chain, but if you disconnect it again, you will have to break the structure.
- Using a special lock to connect the balls. It can be purchased at the store for a small amount.
- The use of a lock in the form of a hook for reliable fixation and convenient and quick fastening of the ends.
Using the methods described will help the owner to separate the ends of the chain and reuse it. The use of a lock will make it easier to use the product in the future, thanks to this a person can easily remove and put on the chain.
Execution technique
We suggest using the method of attaching a special lock with a hook for quick closing and opening. This can be done according to the following plan:
- Separate the rod anywhere using wire cutters or carefully tear it apart with your hands.
- Take two small pieces of wire and loop them around each ball at both ends to form a loop.
- Thread the wire through the hole in the lock.
- Using pliers, pinch the wire and secure it in the form of a loop or knot.
- Connect the edges of the lock, the chain is ready for use.
Choose a material for fastening that is durable and suitable in appearance to the main chain.