The proper installation of V-belts is a key factor in keeping the machine components in good condition for a long period of time.  V-belts are used to transmit the power efficiently and have the impact on the longer service life of drive components.

They operate smoothly and quietly and do not require any additional lubrication (which is needed in case of the cooperation with the chain rollers).

V-belts should be stored in dry and dust-free area without any trace of fuel or oil. If the oil gets on the rubber belt it may lead to loosing the parameters of the belt. It may result in the breakage and cost-effective fixing of components.

What has an impact on the proper installation of V-belts is also the optimum belt tension:

• If belts are too loose, they may slip or generate the excessive noise.
• If belts are tighten too much, they may cause damage to the driver components, like alternator or water pump.

It is a good idea to use the proper tools for tensioning the belts onto the pulleys. It often happens that V-belts are damaged during the improper installation. It is forbidden to bend the belts, use the sharp tools, use too much force or any other type of pressure. Before replacing the old belt, it is important to inspect the condition of the pulleys for wear or any signs of damage.

Following both the above guidelines and technical information will help to avoid too low or too high belt tension and enable the machine and its drive to operate according to its technical parameters.

Moreover, it is recommended to:

• properly use the tension rolls,
• check the appropriate pulley alingment – each pulley should be balanced statically; grooves should be smooth, clean, without sharp edges and correctly adjusted to the proper section of the belt.
• adjust the quantity of V-belts in a set – it has the impact on the lifespan of all the belts. The belt tranmission is adjusted to the optimum volume of belts of a particular application.
• keep safe working environment of the belts – pay attention to oil, grease, temperature and moisture and protect the working components against direct exposure to weather conditions.
• properly store the V-belts – when maintaining under improper conditions, the physical properties of rubber will be impaired. Also, the belts should not be exposed to solvents, light, moisture and oxygen has the impact on the belt.
• correctly mount the V-belts in a set of belts.

It should be kept in mind that the proper installation of V-belts will not be difficult on condition that a few significant rules are strictly followed. Properly installed V-belts retain their properties for a long period of time and enables the machine to operate according to its capabilities and technical parameters.