A V-belt, also known as a Vee belt or a wedge belt, is a type of power transmission belt that has a trapezoidal cross-section. It is commonly used to transfer power between two rotating shafts in machinery and mechanical systems. The “V” shape of the belt corresponds to the shape of the grooves in the pulleys it is designed to fit.
V-belts are typically made of rubber or a synthetic material and are reinforced with cords, usually made of textile materials like polyester or aramid fibers. These cords provide strength and flexibility to the belt. The belt is wrapped around the pulleys, and the friction between the belt and the pulleys allows it to transmit power from the driving pulley (also called the input or crankshaft pulley) to the driven pulley (output or driven shaft pulley).
V-belts are widely used in various applications, including industrial machinery, automotive engines, agricultural equipment, and HVAC systems. They are known for their reliability, high power transmission capability, and relatively low cost. V-belts come in different sizes and profiles, classified by a standard nomenclature (such as A, B, C, D, etc.) based on their dimensions.
Overall, V-belts play a crucial role in power transmission systems, efficiently transferring power and torque from one component to another in a wide range of mechanical applications.