Differences between Flat Belts and V-Belts

Every machine involves different mechanisms to perform tasks by energy. In most cases, mechanical power plays a role in driving the machines. A mechanical power transmission unit helps in transmitting power, motion, and torque.

The major mechanical drives are belt drives, chain drives, gear drives, and rope drives to serve different purposes.

Belt drives are of different types, including flat and V-belt drives. In the case of a flat belt conveyor, there is a rectangular, cross-sectioned joined belt. It is useful when the pulley directly contacts the belt’s flat face. V-belt drives use a trapezoidal belt with pulleys that have a corresponding V-groove. There are several other differences between V-belts and flat belts.

Configurations of the flat and V-belts-

A standard flat belt has an endless, as it remains hinged at a single point. The width is larger compared to the thickness. The belt’s interior surface is adjacent to the cylindrical-shaped pulleys. On the contrary, the outer surface touches the belt. Thus, the friction force helps in the transmission of power and motion from one shaft to the other one. 

While checking the V-belt, you can find that the width and the thickness are almost equal. The V-groove of the pulley accommodates the belt.

Vibration and noise caused by the belts-

As the interior surface of the flat belt is unsymmetrical, it generates vibration. A high speed can limit its use. But, the V-belt has no joining and produces minimal vibration. You will find a quiet operation of the V-belt.

Power transmission ability-

A belt drive transmits power and motion to different shafts. As it is a friction drive, it is related to the frictional properties. While the load goes beyond the frictional force, you will notice an automatic slip. The higher frictional coefficient increases the transmission capacity. But, there will be more wear and tear and more heat production. In the case of the industrial V-belts, the coefficient of friction is almost 2 times higher. 

Speed control-

There are special movers to drive the machine units. A high-quality driver shaft is capable of rotating at a higher speed. Thus, the rotational speed is to be reduced by adjusting the driver’s diameter. 

The speed reduction capacity of the flat belt is 1:4. On the contrary, it is 1:7 for your V-belts.

Which one is more affordable?

The flat belt drives and their pulleys have an uncomplicated construction. The length is adjustable several times, as there are bolts. You can buy these flat belts at a lower price. However, V-belts, including their pulleys, are slightly costlier, and you cannot adjust their length. Still, you can buy them from the most reliable V-belt manufacturers.

Belt drives are made of different materials, and the most popular ones are the canvas belts Mumbai. Polydrive is a trusted belt drive manufacturer in India. It distributes quality products across the country.  V-belts differ from flat belts in several ways. By understanding the difference between them, you can make the right choice.