Ketens

Ketens (chains) can denote physical metal chains or networks of entities connected in sequence, such as supply chains. Physical chains are assemblies of linked metal loops designed to transmit force, suspend loads, or secure objects. In industrial contexts they are used in lifting, rigging, towing, and mechanical power transmission; in business contexts they describe the sequence of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers that move a product from origin to consumer.

Physical chains: construction and materials. Most chains are made of steel alloys, though stainless steel or coated materials are used for corrosion resistance. Common link types include round-link, stud-link, and welded chains; some chains are designed for high-load lifting and have different cross-sections and heat treatments. Chains are rated with a working load limit (WLL) and a breaking load; the safety factor depends on standards. Regular inspection for wear, corrosion, deformation, and stretched links is advised; damaged chains should be retired. Manufacturing may involve forging or machining of links, heat treatment, and surface finishing.

Standards and safety: International standards govern dimensions, tolerances, materials, and testing for lifting chains to ensure reliability in critical applications. Operators should follow manufacturer guidelines, use appropriate hooks and slings, and avoid exceeding WLL.

Supply chains: In business terms, a keten is the network of organizations, activities, information, and resources involved in moving a product from supplier to customer. Key concerns include lead times, inventory management, quality control, risk, and transparency. Digital technologies such as ERP, supply-chain management software, and RFID enable tracing and optimization; blockchain has been explored to improve traceability and trust across multi-party networks.