V-Belt Classification - Belthubs (2024)

V-belts are an essential component in power transmission systems, used to transfer mechanical energy between two or more rotating shafts. They are versatile, efficient, and reliable, making them a popular choice across various industries. V-belts are classified into different categories based on their cross-sectional shape, dimensions, and specific design features. These categories include classical V-belts, narrow V-belts, fractional horsepower V-belts, and ribbed or multi-rib belts. Each type of V-belt is designed for a particular set of applications and operating conditions, with varying levels of power transmission capacity, size constraints, and efficiency. Understanding the various V-belt classifications is crucial for selecting the most suitable belt for a specific application, ensuring optimal performance, and maximizing the lifespan of the belt and the machinery it is attached to.

Classical V-belts #

Classical V-belts, also known as conventional V-belts, are the most commonly used type of V-belts. They have a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape, and are used in a wide variety of applications, from light-duty machinery to heavy industrial equipment.

Classical V-belts are classified by a single letter: A, B, C, D, or E. This letter designation corresponds to the belt’s size, with A being the smallest and E being the largest. Here’s a general breakdown of the dimensions:

1. A Section: Top width is about 13mm and height is about 8mm.
2. B Section: Top width is about 17mm and height is about 11mm.
3. C Section: Top width is about 22mm and height is about 14mm.
4. D Section: Top width is about 32mm and height is about 19mm.
5. E Section: Top width is about 38mm and height is about 23mm.

Please note that these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers, so always check the specific belt’s specifications.

Classical V-belts are suitable for the majority of industrial drives, offering a combination of affordability and performance. They can handle a wide speed range, deal with large center distances, and tolerate a certain amount of misalignment. However, they are generally less efficient than some other types of V-belts, such as narrow or cogged V-belts.

Narrow V-belts #

Narrow V-belts, also known as wedge belts, have a narrower and deeper profile compared to classical V-belts, which gives them higher power transmission capabilities. They are typically used in high-speed, high-torque applications.

Narrow V-belts are classified by a number-letter combination: 3V, 5V, 8V, and sometimes 14V. This designation indicates the belt’s size, with 3V being the smallest and 14V being the largest. Here’s a general breakdown of their dimensions:

1. 3V Section: Top width is about 9mm and height is about 8mm.
2. 5V Section: Top width is about 15mm and height is about 13mm.
3. 8V Section: Top width is about 25mm and height is about 23mm.
4. 14V Section: This is a lesser-known size, and its dimensions can vary widely. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Here is the information in table format:

Please note, as with any mechanical component, these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Always refer to the specific product documentation for accurate measurements.

Metric V-belts #

Metric V-belts, as their name suggests, are dimensioned using the metric system. They are similar to classical V-belts but are often used in European markets and machinery. Metric V-belts come in several sizes: SPZ, SPA, SPB, and SPC, with SPZ being the smallest and SPC being the largest.

Here’s a general breakdown of their dimensions:

1. SPZ Section: Top width is about 10mm and height is about 8mm.
2. SPA Section: Top width is about 13mm and height is about 10mm.
3. SPB Section: Top width is about 17mm and height is about 14mm.
4. SPC Section: Top width is about 22mm and height is about 18mm.

Here is the information in table format:

As with any mechanical component, these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Always refer to the specific product documentation for accurate measurements. The advantage of metric V-belts lies in their ability to carry high loads over a large speed range and they are especially suited for heavy-duty industrial applications where a robust performance is required.

Fractional Horsepower (FHP) Belts #

Fractional Horsepower (FHP) belts are designed for light-duty applications that require less than one horsepower. They have a smaller cross-section compared to classical V-belts, making them suitable for smaller machines, household appliances, and other low-power applications. FHP belts are classified using a number-letter combination: 2L, 3L, 4L, and 5L.

Here’s a general breakdown of their dimensions:

1. 2L Section: Top width is about 6.35mm and height is about 4.32mm.
2. 3L Section: Top width is about 9.53mm and height is about 5.56mm.
3. 4L Section: Top width is about 12.7mm and height is about 7.94mm.
4. 5L Section: Top width is about 16.66mm and height is about 11.11mm.

Here is the information in table format:

Please note that these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers, so it is always best to consult the specific product documentation for accurate measurements. FHP belts are not designed for heavy-duty or high-torque applications but are a cost-effective solution for less demanding, light-duty tasks.

Cogged V-belts #

Cogged V-belts, also known as notched or toothed V-belts, feature grooves along the inner surface that run perpendicular to the belt length. These grooves increase flexibility and heat dissipation, which can improve efficiency and extend the belt’s lifespan. The sizes of cogged V-belts are designated by a combination of letters and numbers: AX, BX, CX, DX, and EX, with AX being the smallest and EX being the largest.

Here’s a general breakdown of their dimensions:

1. AX Section: Top width is about 13mm and height is about 8mm.
2. BX Section: Top width is about 17mm and height is about 11mm.
3. CX Section: Top width is about 22mm and height is about 14mm.
4. DX Section: Top width is about 32mm and height is about 19mm.
5. EX Section: Top width is about 38mm and height is about 23mm.

Here is the information in table format:

Please note, as with any mechanical component, these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Always refer to the specific product documentation for accurate measurements. Cogged V-belts are suitable for high-speed, high-torque applications and can handle a wider speed range than classical V-belts. They are more efficient, but also generally more expensive.

Double V-belts #

Double V-belts, also known as hexagonal or double-sided V-belts, have a distinct “V” profile on both sides of the belt. This unique design allows them to be used in applications where the belt needs to drive pulleys on both sides, such as serpentine belt systems and certain agricultural equipment.

Double V-belts are classified by a combination of letters: AA, BB, CC, DD, and EE, with AA being the smallest and EE being the largest. Here’s a general breakdown of their dimensions:

1. AA Section: Top width is about 13mm and height is about 10mm.
2. BB Section: Top width is about 17mm and height is about 13mm.
3. CC Section: Top width is about 22mm and height is about 17mm.
4. DD Section: Top width is about 32mm and height is about 22mm.
5. EE Section: Top width is about 38mm and height is about 29mm.

Here is the information in table format:

Please note that these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers, so always refer to the specific product documentation for accurate measurements. Double V-belts are particularly useful for complex drive systems and can handle a certain amount of misalignment, making them suitable for agricultural and industrial applications.

Cogged V-Belt #

Cogged V-belts, also known as notched or toothed V-belts, have grooves or notches on the underside which run perpendicular to the length of the belt. These notches increase the flexibility of the belt, allow it to bend around small pulley diameters, and enhance heat dissipation, which can lead to a longer service life and improved efficiency.

The sizes of cogged V-belts are usually designated by a combination of letters and numbers, with different series available like ZX, AX, BX, 3VX, 5VX, HAX, H3VX, and so on. The letters usually indicate the profile or section of the belt, while the numbers generally correlate to the belt’s width. The “X” typically designates a cogged or notched belt.

Here’s a general breakdown of some common cogged V-belt dimensions:

1. ZX Section: Top width is about 10mm and height is about 6mm.
2. AX Section: Top width is about 13mm and height is about 8mm.
3. 3VX Section: Top width is about 9mm and height is about 8mm.
4. 5VX Section: Top width is about 15mm and height is about 13mm.
5. HAX Section: Top width is about 13mm and height is about 8mm, with a more heavy-duty construction.
6. H3VX Section: Top width is about 9mm and height is about 8mm, with a more heavy-duty construction.

Here is the information in table format:

Please note that these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Always refer to the specific product documentation for accurate measurements. Cogged V-belts are suitable for high-speed, high-torque applications and can handle a wider speed range than classical V-belts. They are more efficient, but also generally more expensive.

Poly-V Belt #

Poly-V belts, also known as multi-ribbed belts or ribbed V-belts, have multiple V-shaped ribs on the inner side of the belt that correspond to grooves on the pulleys. This design allows for greater power transmission efficiency and increased flexibility compared to traditional V-belts. Poly-V belts are commonly used in automotive engines, industrial machinery, and appliances.

Poly-V belts are designated by a combination of letters and numbers, with the letters indicating the belt profile and the numbers representing the nominal pitch length of the belt. Here are some common poly-V belt designations and their dimensions:

1. PH: This belt has a pitch length of about 1.6mm and is used in small appliances and light-duty applications.
2. PJ: This belt has a pitch length of about 2.34mm and is commonly used in printers, power tools, and other similar applications.
3. PK: This belt has a pitch length of about 3.56mm and is used in larger appliances, automotive applications, and industrial machinery.
4. PL: This belt has a pitch length of about 4.7mm and is suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications.
5. PM: This belt has a pitch length of about 9.4mm and is used in heavy-duty applications, such as large industrial machinery and automotive systems.

Here is the information in table format:

Please note that these dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Always refer to the specific product documentation for accurate measurements and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper belt selection based on your application requirements.

Agricultural V-Belt #

Agricultural V-belts, also known as farm machinery belts, are specialized belts designed specifically for agricultural equipment and machinery. These belts are built to withstand the demanding conditions and heavy-duty applications commonly encountered in farming and agricultural operations.

While there is no specific standardized classification for agricultural V-belts, they are generally available in various sizes and profiles to accommodate different agricultural machinery and systems. These belts are often constructed with durable materials and reinforced with high-strength cords to handle the high loads and power transmission requirements typically found in agricultural applications.

Agricultural V-belts can be used in a wide range of farm machinery, including combines, balers, tractors, mowers, and other equipment. They are designed to provide reliable power transmission, resistance to wear, and durability in dusty, dirty, and harsh environments commonly encountered in farming operations.

When selecting agricultural V-belts, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of the machinery and application, such as pulley sizes, power transmission needs, and environmental conditions. Consulting the equipment manufacturer or a professional in the agricultural industry can help ensure the right agricultural V-belt is chosen for optimal performance and longevity in agricultural machinery.

Variable Speed V-Belt #

Variable speed V-belts, also known as speed control V-belts, are a specialized type of V-belt designed to handle varying speeds and provide adjustable power transmission. Unlike traditional V-belts that operate at a fixed speed, variable speed V-belts are engineered to accommodate speed changes without compromising performance.

Variable speed V-belts are commonly utilized in applications where speed adjustments are required, such as variable speed pulley systems, adjustable speed drives, and machinery with changing operational requirements. They provide smooth power transmission at different speeds, allowing for efficient and reliable performance.

When selecting a variable speed V-belt, it is important to consider the specific application requirements, including the desired speed range, load capacity, and compatibility with the pulley system. Consultation with the manufacturer or a professional can help ensure the appropriate variable speed V-belt is chosen for optimal operation and longevity.