V- Belts –Two Questions.

A couple of questions I am often asked are…

What are the advantages of V- belts?

• Large range of speeds available.
• Belt drives are less expensive than chain drives for low horsepower and low ratio applications.
• Belts require no lubrication.
• Single belt drives will accept more misalignment than chain drives.
• Belt drives will cushion shock loads.
• Belts will slip when overloaded, thus preventing damage to shafts, bearings and other machine parts.

How do they work? 

V-belts transmit power by their grip on the pulley and the belt tension, the belt transmits power by friction contact between the belt and the driving and driven pulley It is therefore essential that correct tension is maintained throughout the life of the belt.

Here’s 6 tips to help you maintain tension and get the best from your V- Belt.

• Always tension the belt to the manufactures recommended tension.
• Check the belt tension frequently during the first 24 to 48 hours of run-in operation.
• Maintain pulley alignment while tensioning the drive.
• Make V-belt drive inspections periodically checking belt tension.
• Keep all belts free from foreign material.
• Over-tension/Under- tension of belts will lead to reduced belt and bearing life.