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shorter than this may result in readings that
are higher than the actual tension due to belt
cross-sectional stiffness.
›
When measuring the tension in
V-belts
,
use spans that are more than 30 times
the belt top width. Using spans shorter than
this may result in readings that are higher
than the actual tension due to belt
crosssectional stiffness.
›
There are limits as to how low a span tension
value can be measured depending upon
the belt type and cross-section. Minimum
recommended installation tension values
are available for all belt sections from either
drive design software, drive design manuals
or Gates Application Engineering.
Measuring tensions below these minimum
recommended values should be avoided,
as the meter may display “ERROR”/
“Error-Re-measure” or provide inaccurate
results.
›
When measuring belt installation tension,
turn the drive over by hand for several
revolutions to fully seat the belt and equalise
tension in all of the spans before making any
measurements. Factors such as pulley/shaft
eccentricity, belt/sheave groove variation, etc.,
can influence belt tension as the pulley or
sheaves rotate. If the measured belt tension
changes significantly as the drive is rotated,
and accurate measurements are needed,
determine the low and high values and
average them together. When the tension of
2 spans differs more than 30% approx., adjust
them almost equally and measure again.
›
Wind can adversely affect the ability of
the meter to make a reading by creating
excessive background noise. If measuring
in a windy location, shield the sensor from
the wind or use a microphone windscreen.
›
An optional inductive sensor should be
utilised in noisy or windy environments for
optimal results. The inductive sensor uses
a magnetic field rather than sound waves.
A simple way to use this sensor is with
a magnet taped to the backside of the belt.
Small “rare earth” magnets, which are
included in the inductive sensor package
provide excellent results with minimal
influence on the belt span frequency due
to the added weight.
›
If a specific process is used to set belt tension
in a particular application, and the meter
is used only to monitor the resulting belt
tensions, the frequency mode can be used
rather than displaying an absolute tension
value. Belt span frequencies for minimum
and maximum tension conditions can be
measured so assemblers/technicians can
use the meter to verify that belt installation
tension is within an acceptable range.
These frequency values can also be found by
using the DesignFlex
®
Pro
™
belt drive design
software (available for download on
www.gates.com/europe)
›
Tension measurements made on belts at very
low tensions may yield greater variability and
a greater probability for errors. If a tension
reading cannot be obtained, the belt may
be too loose to generate a clear harmonic
frequency signal. If this is the case, the belt
may need to be tightened in order to obtain
a tension reading.
Summary of Contents for 508C
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