How to Identify a V-Belt

A V-belt is a wedge-shaped belt manufactured out a rubber compound, reinforced with a tensile cord specifically engineered to transmit power into movement. V-belts can be found in driving mechanisms, such as engines in air compressors, fans, and pumps. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials to meet the needs of particular applications.

V-Belt Product Types

There are a number of possible types of V-belts available

· Light Duty - Suitable for light duty applications normally using fractional horsepower motors

· Classical Heavy Duty - Wide range of sizes

· Molded Cogged - Cogs allow use of smaller diameter pulleys and provide heat dissipation; Raw Edge Sidewalls prevent slippage

· Wedge - Narrower, deeper profile with higher power capacity than classical v-belt; allows for smaller, more compact drives

· Wedge Cogged - Same properties as Wedge, but cogged for greater flexibility and heat dissipation

· Banded – Two or more v-belts joined to form a single belt allowing the belts to function as a single belt with equal load distribution and wear

Belts with Branding

If the branding on the v-belt is still intact, the easiest way to identify it is to simply read the part number. Unfortunately, after hours of use the brand is often worn off and not legible. In this case, it becomes necessary to take note of the dimensions of the belt.