V-Belt Tensioning Devices
The importance of correct belt tension be it for V-belts or timing belts can not be understated, it is estimated that 95% of belt failures and drive problems are related specifically to improper belt tensions.
V-Belts work on the wedge effective of the belt into the pulley, too little tension will result in belt slippage causing premature belt &
pulley wear and also will dramatically reduce the energy efficiency of the drive. Too much tension can result in excessive stress on the belts and dramatically increase hub loads resulting in problems associated with bearings and shafts. Timing belts also require tension too little will cause tooth jump and too much will again place undue stress on the belt resulting in belt breakage and/or excessive hub loads.
Carlisle has a range of tensioning devices available to suit every maintenance need that will take the guess work out of belt tension.
Tensionmeter – Designed to measure the belt tension using the deflection method. With the tensiometer you can measure the deflection distance and deflection force. Available in single, double and triple stem configuration and is recommended for V-belts and Timing belts.
Tensionfinder – Designed to measure belt stretch using the elongation method. No predetermined calculations required as the
tension values are shown on the gauge. By far the simplest method to apply belt tension. Recommended for V-belts and banded belts. Two gauges to select from Tensionfinder (Long Gauge) & Tensionfinder “Big Shot” (Short Gauge).
Frequency Finder – Frequency-Finder – Designed to measure the natural frequency of belt vibration in the span length. Records the belt vibration frequency (Hz) on a LCD display. The frequency of vibration is directly related to the belt tension i.e. the higher the reading the higher the belt tension. Recommended for use on any type of belt.