V Belts

The importance of maintaining v-belts properly

V-belts, also known as fan belts are typically used to drive such things like an alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor and water pump. A v-belt is a rubber belt and is called as such because its cross section is shaped V. Both sides of the v-belt grip pulleys. There are some v-belts that have notches attached into them in order to increase its grip and to help cool the belt. This notch is also used to relieve stress to the v-belt as it bends around the pulley's small diameter. Take note that in a span of three to four years, v-belts should be replaced with a new one. This is because four years of flexing and bending may affect the performance of the belt. However, because of the manner on how some v-belts are made today, one can never be too certain if a v-belt already needs replacement because some of them although worn already, still look good and functional. This is the reason why experts recommend that you change v-belts regardless of how they look like in the interest of safety. However, there are some v-belts that don't last for years. This is because some v-belts are subjected to improper tension, misalignment, improper handling and environmental conditions. These reasons if not taken into consideration may result in the decrease of the service life of v-belts. In order to maximize the full potential of your v-belts, there is a need to maintain this material properly. Listed below are some tips on how to handle and properly use v-belts so that it can stand for several years.

1. It is a fact that v-belts need a little maintenance. However, you should ensure that all belts are properly tensioned initially. There should also be periodic checking of belts to ensure that it is working smoothly and properly. This maintenance check should be done no more than three to six months. When doing this periodic check up, make sure that the drive is turned off and properly locked down. After this, try to look for glazed or hardened v-belt sidewalls. These are indications that the v-belt is slipping into the drive. Take note that the ideal tension of the v-belt is usually the lowest tension. This lowest tension will permit the v-belt to not slip from the drive even at its highest load condition. If in case you are installing a new v-belt, starting a run-in procedure is a requisite. The process for a run-in procedure involves starting the device and allowing it to run at its full load before stopping it. When it is stopped, there is a need for re-checking and re-tensioning.
2. When you are trying to install a v-belt, make sure that you look into sheave or pulley misalignment. This is because when your v-belt sheave is misaligned, it will result to excessive v-belt wear on the sidewalls. This will also result to instability and v-belt turnover.
3. It is a fact that mishandling of v-belt is a contributory factor to its premature failure. In order to prevent this from happening, make sure that when you are installing new v-belts, never use too much force. Also, don't pry them on sheaves or pulleys because this may break and damage the internal cord or damage the outside structure of the v-belt.

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