Benefits of the Gates EZ Align Precision Laser Tool

Accurate pulley alignment is very important in maximizing the performance and longevity of belt drive systems. Measuring and correcting misalignment is not always easy, though, so laser type tools can be very helpful. While a number of different types can be found, the Gates EZ Align Precision Laser Tool is definitely a best in class device and should be seriously considered.

EZ Align cases are made of tough machined aluminum with a durable finish allowing survival in industrial environments and in tool bags. Strong rare earth magnets mount emitter and target units securely. The lasers are bright with high quality optics, and units can be calibrated for accuracy or repaired as needed. The new EZ Align Green model uses an even brighter green laser for outdoor use in bright sunlight. The EZ Align Green laser is 10 times brighter than the standard EZ Align laser and can reach up to 15 feet.



The EZ Align Tool is capable of indicating misalignment in three different planes.  The reflective method used in the measuring process is what really sets the EZ Align apart from other laser alignment tools.  Reflecting the beam from the target unit back to the emitter unit multiplies angular misalignment making it highly visible for accurate correction.  Angular misalignment is multiplied 20 times greater than other non-reflective laser tools.  Types of misalignment indicated by the EZ Align Tool are illustrated below:

Laser alignment tools are invaluable in accurately indicating pulley alignment and should be a part of every preventative maintenance program.   Gates EZ Align and EZ Align Green tools are the best available and are well worth their cost.

Self-Generated Tension

All synchronous belt drives exhibit a self-generating or self-tightening characteristic when transmitting a load. Laboratory testing has shown this characteristic to be similar with all tooth profiles. The designer/user should be aware that self-tensioning can result in increased bearing and shaft loads and reduced drive performance; i.e., short belt life. This can be avoided by following proper tensioning procedures.

While belt overtensioning can impose higher bearing and shaft loads and lead to reduced belt life, undertensioning can result in self-tensioning. Properly designed and tensioned drives will not be significantly affected by self-generated tension.

When a belt is too loose for the design load, the self-tensioning characteristic results in the belt teeth climbing out of the sprocket grooves, leading to increased stresses on the belt teeth, accelerated tooth wear and reduced belt life. When a belt is severely undertensioned, this self-tensioning characteristic can result in the belt ratcheting (jumping teeth). When this occurs, significant shaft separation forces are instantaneously developed in the drive, resulting in damage to bearings, shafts, and other drive components including the belt.

NOTE: This is true for all synchronous belts.

Maximum drive performance and belt life are achieved when the belt is properly tensioned for the design load and maintained.

Belt Dressing

Gates does not recommend applying dressing to belt drives. While belt dressing may temporarily quiet a slipping V-belt drive, it only masks the real problem (i.e. low belt tension). If a belt is slipping, it should be re-tensioned.

Additional information on drive inspection and troubleshooting is available in the Belt Drive Preventive Maintenance & Safety Manual at http://www.gates.com/brochure.cfm?brochure=1224&location_id=3288/.

FIRST Things First

January 5 is the kickoff for the 2013 FIRST Robotics Competition and once again Gates will be providing belts and sprockets in the kit of parts. We encourage teams to gain experience with belt drives before the build season which is why Gates is currently accepting preseason orders. After the FRC kickoff Gates will be offering several belts and sprockets as part of our in-season ordering. Then, after the season is over scholarships will be available to Seniors whose robots contained at least one Gates belt.

Please email ptpasupport@gates.com for more information about preseason orders. If you need help selecting parts or want to find more information about Gates and FIRST go to www.Gates.com/FIRST. You can also go here http://thinktank.wpi.edu/article/199 to watch the Gates presentation shown at FRC Kickoff Workshops last year.