Belt Drive Wheels And Pulleys
Pulleys and wheels are probably two of the oldest and simplest mechanical devices. Pulley systems make the lifting and moving of much heavier objects possible by changing the direction of the applied force. For example, as a rope is pulled down, a piano moves up. For so simple a device, a pulley has a lot of power and gives the mover a great advantage. You can lift several times your weight by wrapping the rope several times. Wrapping the rope or chain multiples the amount of force exerted on an object. Basic pulley systems consist of a wheel with a groove for a rope, chain, or belt to fit into to ensure it doesn't move while in use. Pulleys can also be connected together. Pulleys, the same as many different chain hoist types, have many applications and have been in use on ships and in many industries for decades. Belt drive wheels and pulleys take the basic system and put it into high gear.
The Beginning of Belt Drive Wheels and Pulleys
In 1917, John Gates invented the V-belt, which sent pulleys in a whole new direction. These belts could deliver incredible force at high speeds and soon the use of this form of pulley was put to good use in cars and later power tools, farm and lawn equipment, and even washers and dryers. Thus belt drive wheels and pulleys were born and remained with us. This type of wheel-based, belt-driven pulley system is still found under the hoods of cars today and powers fans and alternators for a start. Though chains are another popular material for pulleys and are often found on bikes, some motorcycles, the 2008 Softail for example, now use belts. Conveyor belts are another common application of this type of pulley.
Applying Belt Drive Wheels and Pulleys
Belts can present a disadvantage as the smooth surface can cause the belt to slip off the wheel, slowing down the end result. This can be remedied by using belts that have teeth. The teeth on belts tend to wear out faster than the teeth on chains, but they will prevent slippage and are relatively easy to detect once they start to wear. Often made with plastic or rubber, belt drive wheels and pulleys may wear out and tear sooner than chains, which are made of metal. However, the lightness of these materials means they can move at a faster pace than chains.
Belt wear can be prevented by not over tightening the belt. Regularly checking the belt drive wheels and pulleys will also help to prevent needless damage or harm either to the rest of the system or to those working around it. A worn belt moving at a high velocity may jump the pulley or snap. At that speed, serious bodily injury could happen. Examine the belts regularly for wearing or cracking to ensure this doesn't happen.
Belt drive wheels and pulleys are a time-tested simple and effective method of moving objects and creating power in many different applications. From sail boats to the inside of car engines to conveyor belts, they prove to be a priceless invention.
