3 Maintenance Tips to Extend the Durability of Your V-Belts
V-belts are arguably the most common belts in industrial and commercial applications. They are used together with v-belt pulleys to transmit power between axles. Their applications include lifting loads and applying forces. This means that they are indispensable equipment in most industrial settings. V-belts are preferred to other kinds of belts due to their ease of installation and the fact that they do not require lubrication. However, this does not mean that they are immune to damage. Lack of proper care can wear out the belts and render them useless. That's why you need to observe the following maintenance tips to extend their durability.
1. Look out for pulley misalignment
When pulley misalignment occurs, the v-belt also gets misaligned and becomes susceptible to premature wear. This can also lead to belt slipping while the equipment is in operation. Pulley misalignment can be due to wear and tear, worn bearings or even worn belt ribs. A misalignment can damage your belt in just a few days if you don't take care of it immediately. The most apparent signs are usually vibrations or squealing noises when using the pulleys. An inspection of the belts will also reveal wear around the edges. Repair misaligned pulleys to extend the life of your v-belts.
2. Clean your pulleys
Pulleys that are filled with dirt, debris and grime can adversely affect the performance of your v-belts. That's because the dirt and debris can cause friction which will accelerate belt wear. What's more, they can also encourage belt slip and prevent your pulley from transmitting the power as required. Therefore, before installing a new belt, check your pulleys and ensure that they are in good condition. Also, clean out any dirt, grime and debris to prevent them from affecting the performance of your new belts. Listen out for squealing noises when using your pulleys, as these are signs that you need to clean the equipment.
3. Prevent unusual belt tension
As you operate your equipment, your v-belts may undergo an under- or over-tension. Too much tension causes premature wear to the belt components. Very little tension reduces the efficiency of the pulley. Look out for signs such as frequent belt slips and noises are these are an indication of an under-tension. On the other hand, an over-tension is characterised by premature wear to the pulley bearings and excessive heat in the bearings.
Be on the lookout for these issues so that you can extend the lifespan of your v-belts. Don't hesitate to contact an expert for belt replacement and pulley maintenance services.