Properly installing a belt is essential to the good operation of a machine. Proper alignment and tension ensure optimal efficiency and performance.
The right sizing of a belt is a very important element. Using the right belt size will have a significant impact on the life and operation of your machines.
It only takes a single string to measure a belt. It is very important not to swap belts of different sizes.
There is also a mathematical method of measuring the length of a belt. You’ll need to make sure you have the following:
- The pitch diameter of the motor pulley (pD)
- The pitch diameter of driven pulley (pd)
- The distance between the two shaft center line (d )
The calculation is as follows:
- Multiply the value of the primitive diameter (pD) by the number 3.14, divide result obtained by 2.
- Multiply the value of the primitive diameter (pd) by the number 3.14, divide the result obtained by 2.
- Add two times the value of the distance between the trees (d)
Some tools you’ll want to have on hand when checking belts and pulleys:
- A set of belt and pulley gauges (a valuable tool for measuring the correct belt and pulley size, as well as pulley wear)
- A good belt tension measuring tool such as the Trummeter Pro
- A Laser pulley alignment tool such as the Fixturlaser PAT
A good alignment of pulleys prevents:
- Premature wear on your belt
- Increase in vibrations and noises
- Increased operating temperature
- Axial loading of bearings
- Decrease in the lifespan of pulleys.
An easy-to-use tool to align your straps is the Fixturlaser PAT2. You can align your pulleys without the need to remove belts, so you can check the accuracy of an alignment quickly.
Some other things to remember about belts and pulleys:
- Always check the wear of the pulley grooves.
- Ensure proper ventilation to ensure that the belt and pulley avoid heating.
- Check the tension of the belt as a. result of its run-in.
