Tension of drive belt

Total tension required in a drive belt depends on the type of belt, the design horsepower, and the drive rpm. Since running tensions cannot be measured, it is necessary to tension a drive statically.

The force/deflection method is most often used. Once a calculated force is applied to the center of a belt span to obtain a known deflection, the recommended static tension is established. Most design catalogs provide force and deflection formulas.

With too little tension in a drive belt, slippage can occur and lead to spin burns, cover wear, overheating of the drive belt, and possibly overheating of bearings. Not enough tension in a synchronous drive belt causes premature tooth wear or possible ratcheting that will destroy the drive belt and could break a shaft.

When installing a new drive belt, installation tension should be set higher. Generally 1.4-1.5 times the normal static tension. This is necessary because drive tension drops rapidly during the seating-in process. This extra initial tension does not affect bearings because it decays rapidly.

Plant Engineering magazine extends its appreciation to The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. for its cooperation in making the cover photo possible.

This article comes from plantengineering edit released

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