Different types of V-Belts and their uses

V-belts, also known as Vee-Belts or serpentine belts due to their shape, are an essential component for many power transmission systems. They are famous for their unique design due to which they perfectly fit into the sheaves of the shaft, allowing efficient power transmission.

Different types of V-belts are designed to have different levels of power transmission and flexibility. They can be classified either based on dimensions or the construction material used.

This article explains all the different types of V-Belts and their respective use cases.

Types of V Belts based on Dimension

Following are the different types of V-Belts based on the dimension or cross-section –

Standard V-Belt

The standard v-belt, also known as the classic v-belt is the most common type of v-belt used in general industrial applications. It’s available in a wide range of widths and lengths and features a trapezoidal cross-section with tapered sides and a flat top and bottom. They are designated as A, B, C, D, E, and Z.

Wedge V-Belt

The Wedge V-belt is a thicker, more rigid version of the standard V-belt. It has a triangular cross-section and a curved top surface. It is designed to handle high torque and is available in a range of widths and lengths. They are designated as SPZ, SPA, SPC, and SPB.

Narrow V-Belt

The Narrow V-belt is a thinner, more flexible version of the standard V-belt, and features a square cross-section with round corners. It is designed for heavier loads, has a greater resistance to wear and tear, and is available in a range of widths and lengths. The common designations for these belts are 3V, 5V, and 8V.

Double V-Belt or Hexagonal V-Belt

The Double V-Belt or Hexagonal V-belt is a more rigid version of the standard V-belt. It has an X-shaped cross-section and a flat top surface. It is designed to handle high torque loads and arrives in a wide range of widths and lengths. They are designated as AA, BB, and CC.

Banded V-Belt

The Banded V-belt is a combination of two or more V-belts. It is designed to provide greater flexibility and power transmission and is available in a range of widths and lengths. The designation of a Banded V-Belt starts with an H and is followed by the individual V-Belt designation.

Poly V-Belts

A poly v-belt is similar to a banded v-belt. However, poly v-belts do not have the section dimensions of standard, wedge, and narrow v-belts. Instead, poly v-belts have a more compact construction and are thinner which results in improved flexibility and makes them suitable for driving multiple pulley systems. They are designated as PJ, PH, PK, PL, and PM.

Fractional Horsepower V-Belt

The Fractional horsepower V-belt features a flat cross-section and is ideal for applications with low power requirements and low torque loads. They’re designated as 3L, 4L, and 5L.

Cogged V-Belt

The Cogged V-belt is a more flexible and durable version of the standard V-belt and has a cogged cross-section. It is designed to handle high torque loads and is available in a range of widths and lengths. They are designated with an X after the V-Belt section number.

Double Cogged V-Belt

The Double cogged V-belt is a single belt made up of a combination of two cogged V-belts. It offers greater flexibility and power transmission in a mechanical system.

Types of V-Belts Based on Construction

Based on the type of construction material used, V-Belts can be classified as Wrapped V-Belts and Raw Edge V-Belts.

Wrapped V-Belts:

Wrapped v-belts are the most common type of v-belts. They are completely covered by plastic or fabric. They have high resistance against external factors and operate quietly. However, these belts have a very low coefficient of friction, meaning they are more likely to slip, which results in some amount of power loss.

Raw Edge V-Belts:

Raw edge v-belts do not have an external cover. So, they are physically connected to a pulley’s surface. Therefore, the belt’s coefficient friction is higher, which reduces the amount of slippage and thus more efficient power transmission.

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Visit the L&T-SuFin website now to choose the best v-belts for your industrial needs.