Ketirõngas

Ketirõngas is an Estonian term meaning chain ring, referring to a small, circular metal element that forms a link in a chain. As an individual ring, it is interlinked with other rings to create a flexible length used in various systems and objects.

Materials commonly used include carbon steel and stainless steel for strength and durability, as well as aluminum, brass, or titanium for lighter or specialized applications. Rings may be finished with coatings such as galvanization, plating, or anodizing to improve corrosion resistance and appearance.

Manufacture generally follows two paths. In jewelry and light-duty chains, rings are produced by drawing wire to size, cutting loops, and then partially opening each ring to link with others, before closing or riveting. In heavier industrial chains, rings are often manufactured as seamless or welded closed, with final hardening and surface treatment.

Variants include seamless (closed) rings and riveted rings, where a small rivet joins two ends to prevent accidental opening. The choice depends on required strength, flexibility, and safety.

Applications range from decorative jewelry—necklaces, bracelets, belts—to industrial chains used in lifting, conveyance, or power transmission. Chain mail armor, historically employing numerous ketirõngas-like rings, remains a notable example in medieval history and modern reenactment.