Machine Design (Belt Drive) (1)

MACHINE DESIGN

BELT DRIVE

Drives:  It is a machine tool which is used to transmit Power or Rotatory Motion from one shaft to another or one system to another.
There are two types Drives: 

1. Rigid drives or Non-flexible drives (such as gear)
2. Flexible drive (such as Belt, chain and rope)

Belt Drive: Belt, Chain and rope drives are called 'flexible' drives. In flexible drives, there is intermediate links such as belt, ropes or chain between the driving and driven shafts. Since this link is flexible, the drives are called 'flexible' drives.

 Advantage of Belt Drive:

• Belt drives can transmit power over considerable distance between the axes of driving and driven shafts.
• The operation of belt drive is smooth and silent.
• They can transmit only a definite load, which if exceeded, will cause the belt to slip over the pulley, thus protecting the parts of the drive against overload.
• They have the ability to absorb the shocks and damp vibration.

Disadvantage of Belt Drive:

• Belt drives have large dimensions and occupy more space.
• The velocity ratio is not constant due to belt slip.
• They impose heavy loads on shafts and bearings.
• There is considerable loss of power resulting in low efficiency. 
• Belt drives have comparatively short service life.

Difference between Flat belt and v-belt drive: