Synchronous & Timing Belts

When utilizing conventional belts, the potential for slips at times makes it impossible to use them when the input and output need to be synchronized. This is where the synchronized belts come in. Synchronized belts, also referred to as timing belts, were designed to overcome slipping problem by featuring a toothed profile that mates with corresponding grooves in the pulleys for a positive engagement with the gears. It is important to have a stable belt length for synchronous applications. In the past, the asynchronous belts were reinforced with steel. However, the trend has changed and the belts are reinforced with glass fiber or aramid. The trapezoidal tooth profile on synchronous belts is considered the standard in the industry. This design is mainly used in machine tools, business equipment, textile machinery, home appliances, and camshaft drives in engines. The synchronous belts are preferred because they come with a number of benefits that put them ahead of the standard belt models. The synchronous belts are thin and flexible. This implies that they can operate well on miniature drives and high-speed applications. Studies have established that asynchronous belts are more efficient for transmitting power especially on short distances compared to nonsynchronous belts. Besides, they are able to sustain high loads. This implies they are more cost effective for running power equipments such as vacuum cleaners, vehicles, and some industrial machines. The main drawback of using synchronous belts is that they are more expensive and demand accurate alignment of pulleys. The recent modifications on the belt’s teeth profiles have improved the initial trapezoidal shape. For example, the full-rounded profile can help to distribute teeth loads evenly on the belt. Another modification gives the belts a curvilinear tooth design referred to as STPD. The modification is targeted at ensuring the pressure angle, tooth depth and selected materials help to deliver improved load capacity as well as other characteristics.