Belt Drive Basics
Belt drives are known as flexible machine elements. This type of element has the advantage of being able to absorb significant amounts of shock and vibration. The primary function of all belt drives is the transmission of power from a source, such as an engine or electric motor, to a variety of devices. This course will discuss advantages and disadvantages of belt drives, belt types, common belt problems, and proper belt handling.
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Learning Objectives
• Define power transmission and drive train
• Identify the advantages and disadvantages of using belt drives
• Describe the relationship between speed and torque
• Recognize the differences between flat, V, serpentine, and synchronous belt types
• Describe common belt problems
• Describe proper belt care and handling
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | Industry Standards and Best Practices |
Key Questions
What is a power transmission?
In mechanics, a transmission is the system that transmits mechanical power from a prime mover (which can be an engine or electric motor), to some form of useful output device.
What are some advantages of belt drives?
Belt drives are easy to design, they’re inexpensive, they absorb shock loads well, they’re easy to install and service, and they permit simple control of power
What is a friction drive belt?
Friction drive belts rely on the friction between the belt and pulley to transmit power. They require tension to maintain the right amount of friction. Flat belts are the purest form of friction drive while V-belts have a friction multiplying effect because of wedging action on the pulley.
What is a positive drive belt?
Positive drive (synchronous) belts rely on the engagement of teeth on the belt with grooves on the pulley. There is no slip with this belt except for ratcheting or tooth jumping.
What are some environmental factors that can influence a belt drive’s performance?
High or low temperature extremes, dust and grime, chemical vapors, lubricants and cutting fluids can all decrease drive performance.
Sample Video Transcript
Belt drives are known as flexible machine elements. This type of element has the advantage of being able to absorb significant amounts of shock and vibration. The primary function of all belt drives is the transmission of power from a source, such as an engine or electric motor to a variety of devices. They can also be used in conveying systems, as in the transportation of coal over a great distance, and as a replacement of rigid power transmission systems, as when a belt transmission replaces a geared drive.
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