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13. Tension
Install and tension synchronous belts properly to ensure
optimum performance.
Proper tension is essential for maximum belt life and efficiency.
Improper belt tension is the primary cause of premature belt
failure and increased costs. Under-tensioned belts lead to
ratcheting and excessive tooth loading, both of which lead to
higher maintenance costs and inefficient transmission of
power. Also, over-tensioning belts leads to premature wear,
along with bearing, shaft and sprocket problems. The result
is more frequent replacement of drive components and
costly downtime.
Tensioning Methods
Choose one of two tensioning methods for
Synchronous belts:
TensionRite® Belt Frequency Meter
Using advanced optical technology, our TensionRite® Belt
Frequency Meter provides a simple, repeatable and reliable
method for tensioning belts. It displays the natural vibration
frequency of the belt strand so you can closely monitor belt
tension. The device works with all industrial transmission belts
including V-belts, synchronous belts, banded belts and Poly-V®
belts and calculates the corresponding belt tension in either
English or SI units.
Deflection Principle
Plunger-type gauges utilize the deflection principle to check the
tension of a belt drive.
The gauge deflects the center of the belt span and the force of
this deflection is compared to a target deflection force for the
particular span. Then, one can adjust the belt tension until the
actual deflection force equals the target.
(in.)
Where:
P = Span length
C = Center distance
D = Large pulley pitch diameter
d = Small pulley pitch diameter
D-d
D-d
2C
sin
-1
2tan
P =
D, Diameter
(in.)
D, Diameter (in.)
C, Center Distance (in.)
P, Span Length
F, Force (lb.)
Q, Deflection
(in.)
40
Synchronous Belts
Installation Guide