Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Motorcycle Belts

Customers often contact Gates regarding belts for motorcycle applications. Unfortunately, Gates does not sell motorcycle replacement belts directly to aftermarket users. The best method to obtain a proper replacement belt is to go through the dealer network for the particular brand of motorcycle.

Various aftermarket distributors also service the market, and they serve as an alternate source for replacement belts. However, some motorcycle belts sold through the original dealer network may be manufactured with proprietary constructions not available through aftermarket distributors.

The standard Poly Chain® GT® Carbon™ belts sold by Gates general market distributors have the GT tooth style. These belt are not recommended for use with motorcycle sprockets, which are typically designed with the HTD® tooth style.

Aftermarket distributor can typically assist with custom motorcycle applications. However, belts in lengths other than those available from aftermarket distributors may require new tooling at costs in excess of $25K per mold.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Synchronous Belt Drive - Test for Structural Integrity

Since synchronous belts are a positive drive and do not slip, they will attempt to transmit all the load that is applied. V-belts will slip at peak loads, almost acting as a clutch and as such not passing that peak loading on to the system's structure.

Since synchronous belts will not act as a clutch, it is important to make sure that the drive structure is adequate. This is more of a concern for HVAC type applications, given their structural considerations.

To check for structural rigidy, first make sure that the system is powered off, locked down and tagged out. Never touch or work with any belt system without taking appropriate safety measures.

Then, grab the opposing belt spans and push or squeeze them towards each other. While doing this, keep an eye on the shafts in the system. If you see significant movement or deflection, the system is not an ideal candidate for synchronous belt conversion without further structural strengthening. If you do not see any movement, or minimal movement, the system's structure is adequate and a good candidate for converting to synchronous belts.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Rust Inhibitor - Krown KL 73

Krown KL 73 is a solvent free rust inhibitor and lubricant that is used with metal products to help protect against rust and also to lubricate moving parts. As with any belt drive, it is not recommended to use any lubrication or belt dressing on the drive. Furthermore, KL 73 can be detrimental to the integrity of the rubber used in power transmission V and synchronous belts. Because of this, KL 73 is not recommended to be used as a rust inhibitor on any power transmission sheave or sprocket containing V or synchronous belts. Find more information on Krown KL 73

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