Telaketjujärjestelmä

Telaketjujärjestelmä, often translated as a track system or caterpillar tracks, is a type of locomotion system. It consists of a loop of flat metal plates, known as tracks, that are connected together and run around a series of wheels. This system is typically used on vehicles that require high traction and the ability to traverse difficult terrain, such as soft ground, sand, snow, or mud.

The main advantage of a telaketjujärjestelmä is its ability to distribute the weight of the vehicle over a larger surface area compared to wheels. This reduces ground pressure, preventing the vehicle from sinking into soft surfaces. The interlocking plates also provide excellent grip and allow for movement over uneven ground by conforming to the terrain. This makes them suitable for heavy machinery like excavators, bulldozers, and tanks, as well as some specialized agricultural and snowmobile vehicles.

The system works by a drive sprocket that engages with the tracks, pulling them around the set of guide wheels. Tensioning mechanisms are used to maintain the correct tightness of the tracks. While offering superior off-road performance, telaketjujärjestelmä typically results in slower speeds and increased fuel consumption compared to wheeled vehicles. They can also cause damage to paved surfaces and require more maintenance due to the complexity of the moving parts.