8 - Belt and Chain Drives

Abstract

This chapter explains about belt and chain drives that are used to transmit power from one rotational drive to another. A belt is a flexible power transmission element that runs tightly on a set of pulleys. A chain drive consists of a series of pin-connected links that run on a set of sprockets. The chapter also discusses various types of belt and chain drives and methods developed for selection of procedures for wedge and flat belts, and for roller chains. The purpose of a belt or chain drive is to transmit power from one rotating shaft to another. Belt drives can be used to simply transmit power between one and another with the speed of the driving and driven shaft equal. There are various types of belt drive configurations including flat, round, V, wedge, and synchronous belt drives, each with their individual merits. The driving force is limited by the friction between the belt and the pulley. The chapter further presents two approaches for the selection of a belt drive, and outlines the typical design and selection procedure for use in conjunction with power-speed rating charts supplied by commercial belt companies. Chain drives are principally used for power transmission, conveyors, and for supporting or lifting loads. The selection and specification of this type of chain is introduced. Details of the selection procedure for standard roller chains have also been outlined.