Sprocket and Sheave Balancing

Stock sprockets and sheaves are statically balanced per MPTA ( Mechanical Power Transmission Association) Standard Practice for Pulley Balancing SPB-86 using the weight based on the following two criteria:

1.  Balance limit (ounces) = Sprocket Weight (lb) x 0.016; or
2.  0.176 ounce (5 grams), whichever is greater

It is important to note that stock sprockets and sheaves should not be used on drives where the rim surface speeds exceed 6500 fpm.  Sprocket and sheave construction and materials will determine the dynamic balancing requirements of the sprocket(s) or sheave(s) where rim surface speeds exceed 6500 fpm.  

If rim speed exceeds 6500 fpm, then the sprocket(s) or sheave(s) will need to be quoted through our Made-to-Order Metals group. They can be contacted directly at makemymetal@gates.com or 800-709-6001 however any quotes will need to be made through your local Gates industrial belt distributor.  

For any additional questions feel free to look through our other blog topics or contact us at ptpasupport@gates.com or 303-744-5800.

ACHE Sprocket Corrosion

More and more often, synchronous drives (especially our Poly Chain GT Carbon belting and sprockets) are being utilized in ACHE applications.  Rust buildup is a common problem on the metal drive components of these cooling tower systems given the high ambient moisture content.  This rusting results in improper belt tooth meshing, premature belt tooth wear, loss of tension, and subsequent decreased belt life.

For these applications, nickel plating of both sprockets as well as rust resistant bushings are recommended to inhibit this corrosion and increase the belts performance and life.  For assistance in obtaining nickel plated sprockets and rust resistant bushings contact Gates Made-To-Order Metals team at (800) 709-6001.

Gates Launches New Metals Technical Guide

Earlier this month, Gates published a new Metals Technical Guide. The guide provides general background information on hardware topics such as:

• Material considerations
• Manufacturing and process capability
• Bushing capability
• Sheave specifications
• Sprocket specifications
• Gates Made-to-Order Metals team

The guide is available for download at www.gates.com/catalogs/ under the Power Transmission Catalog Collection link.