Design Notes - Belt Drives - Simple Analysis

T+dT

T F

T1

T2

Consider the equilibrium of a small element of belt subtending a small angle d Assume that the coefficient of friction between pulley and the belt is and that the belt tension on the tight side of the pulley is T1 and slack side of the pulley T2. Assume the angle of wrap of the belt around the pulley is and ignore centrifugal effects. Resolving forces on the small element of belt in the tangential direction:

(T + dT ) cos d
2

F T cos

so dT = F, when the belt is on the point of slipping: F = N so Resolving the forces on the small element of belt in a radial direction:

d =0 2

as

is small, cos d

dT = N

(T + dT ) sin d + T sin
Td = N

N =0

for small angles

sin

so

Eliminate N, which is not wanted at this stage, gives: This can be integrated:

T1
2

dT = d T T dT = 0 d giving: ln 1 = T2 T

or:

T1 = e T2

beltdrive.doc 30th April 2001