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2015 Power Transmission Products
General Information
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In general, the presence of oil or chemicals in contact with
any belt drive system can materially affect the life span and
operational characteristics of the system. The concentration
of the chemical or oil involved, length and type of exposure,
choice of belt type used and environmental conditions, such
as heat and humidity, all contribute to the rate and degree of
effect on the performance and deterioration.
Two effects may be noted when belts are exposed to oil
and/or chemicals. The most obvious is a swelling or increase
in dimensions of the cross-section so that they no longer fit
the pulley or sheave groove properly. Less apparent at casual
observation, is the deterioration of the original physical
properties, which includes adhesion between the belt
components. If the degree of swelling and/or loss of physical
properties is significant, the life of the belt will be
substantially shortened.
The above effects may be brought about by a large variety of
chemicals, notably oils, acids and solvents.
No one synthetic rubber is resistant to all of these. Some
compounds may be excellent for one chemical, but poor for
another and only adequate for still another.
Because of this, all Continental ContiTech stock belts are
constructed to be reasonably oil and chemical resistant.
The nature of the compounds and/or belt construction may
minimize swelling and deterioration. Occasional splattering by
oils and greases does not usually adversely affect standard
belts. The automotive fan belt is a typical example. In addition,
there are a great number of chemicals, such as gasoline, which
swell rubber or extract ingredients from the belt’s rubber
compounds. These may cause embrittlement, cracking or
swelling of the belt, which results in deterioration
of performance.
If the drive is subjected to the accumulation of a considerable
amount of oil and grease on the belt, it may preclude the use
of a V-belt or a V-ribbed belt. Synchronous belts are not
substantially affected by the loss of friction coefficient and
may be capable of limited operation under these conditions.
As can be seen from the above, there are many variables;
however, the following general guidelines might be of use
in selecting a belt drive system subjected to a
chemical environment.
1.
Prevent the accumulation of contaminants.
2.
If the belts are to be subjected to only an occasional
contamination contact, a standard construction V- or
synchronous belt can be used.
3.
If the belts are expected to give long, trouble-free
operation on an industrial drive and they are in contact with oil
or exposed to an atmosphere laden with chemicals or solvents,
consult the manufacturer for recommendations.
Source: ARPM 1P-3-2, 1999
Oil and Chemical Resistance
of Power Transmission Belts
Overview
Synchronous
Banded
V-Belt
Bushing Hardware
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Automotive & Truck
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