This technical manual contains all important technical information and methods for the design and calculation of drives with Optibelt V-belts and V-grooved pulleys for industrial applications.
For proper power transmission and for achieving an acceptable belt service life, the correct belt tension is of the utmost importance. Too low or too high belt tension will lead to the premature failure of the belts. Over tensioning often leads to bearing failure on the driver or the driven machine. Experience has shown that unscientific belt tensioning methods, such as the “thumb pressure method”, are not suitable for applying the optimum tension to the drive for maximum efficiency. It is therefore recommended that for each drive the required static belt tension “T” is calculated using the formulas by Optibelt. This tension is the lowest possible required by a drive to transmit the highest power level from the drive, taking account of the normal amount of slip.
Once the belt has been fitted and the initial tension has been applied, it should be checked using an Optibelt tension gauge. The belt should be monitored regularly during the first hours of operation. Experience has shown that the first re-tensioning should be carried out after approximately 30 minutes to four hours operating under full load. In doing so, the initial stretch is absorbed. After approximately 24 hours of operation, it is often recommended to check the drive and re-tension the belts if necessary, particularly when not continuously run under full load. The time between checks can be significantly increased then.
