State of stress and strain in a rectangular belt pulled over a cylindrical pulley

Abstract

This paper deals with the contact pressure between a belt and the pulley to which it transmits force and with the bending and membrane stresses in the belt. The anticlastic configuration of the belt is also taken into consideration. The commonly known simplified approximate analysis of the pressure, as well as the results of a more elaborated theory, are presented. Also given in the paper are the description and evaluation of several experimental stress analysis methods that can be used to solve the problem. Two– and three–dimensional photoelasticity, thickness measurements and electrical strain gauges were found to be the most practical approaches. The correlation of results obtained, using the theories and the experimental methods, is discussed. It is estimated that the peak contact pressure is 3–5 times that computed using the plane stress assumption. Results obtained will also have application in the design of wire–ropes or cables transmitting forces to sheaves or drums.

Steady state strains in power transmitting flat belts made of composite material

“…(9) The a.c. motor was switched off and when the belt was stationary the static principal strain difference was recorded at position No. 4.…”