What Is a V-Belt ?
A V belt is a belt with a V-shaped cross-section that transmits the power of a rotating machine. V belts are less expensive and quieter than chain belting. Its performance is best demonstrated when used with pulleys that match the belt’s specifications. A pulley is a disk with a groove cut in it for the belt to bite into. The V belt requires periodic maintenance due to wear and tear caused by use, as well as stretching of the V belt itself. If left in place, the V belt and pulleys can slip, resulting in abnormal noise and reduced capacity.
Uses of V-Belts
V belt and beltings are widely used in power transmission. They are also used in power transmission in automobiles and in the drive units of fans and blowers. They are also used in a high percentage of agricultural equipment. This is due to their ease of maintenance and low cost of ownership. Depending on the application, multiple V belt and beltings are used to transmit greater power. When replacing the V belt, care must be taken because fingers can easily get caught between the belt and pulleys, resulting in injury.
Features of V-Belts
V belts are one of the power transmission methods. However, it is not capable of performing at its full potential unless the tension is properly adjusted. If the tension is too strong, it can lead to abnormal wear, wear on each rotating shaft, bearing damage, and overloading of power equipment. Conversely, too little tension can lead to V belt slipping noise, reduced capacity, and equipment stoppage due to V belt dropout. The proper tension is determined in the manufacturer’s catalog. It is important to keep the tension within the corresponding standard, which is determined by the pushing force and the pushing allowance times the constant distance between the shafts. A tool called a tension gauge is also used for this purpose and should be carried along when performing maintenance.
There is also the type of V belt that has an uneven surface called a cog. This type is suitable for small pulley diameters. The use of a V belt with a small radius of curvature can solve this problem.
When replacing the V belt and belting, the condition of the pulleys should also be checked; even if the V belt is new, if the pulleys are worn, it will lead to abnormal V belt wear and poor rotation. There is a gauge for pulleys called a groove gauge, which can be used to check the condition.