Experimental and finite element studies of the running of V-ribbed belts in pulley grooves

Abstract

A finite element model of a complete loop of V-ribbed belt running between two torque transmitting pulleys has been created to study the mechanics of contact between a belt rib and pulley groove. It has been validated against experimental measurements of radial movement of a K-section belt running on 80 mm diameter pulleys. Patterns of sticking and slip between the belt and pulley are predicted. Of particular interest are the patterns of traction in entry and exit regions and, in fully seated regions, the variations with distance from the cord line. Both steady state and transient behaviours are modelled. Successful computations have only been achieved after developing a simplified description of the belt rubber's incompressible hyperelasticity, based on subsidiary experimental and finite element testing. Of major interest is the severe contact conditions predicted on driving pulleys compared to driven pulleys at the same loading.

Finite element analysis of V-ribbed belt/pulley system with pulley misalignment using a neural-network-based material model

“…8-10 was executed in the following sequence. First step is to geometrically position the designated pulley inside the unstretched circular shaped belt, which was then loosely wrapped onto the pulley as done by Lawrence et al [1] and Yu et al [3]. A concentrated force is then applied to pulley reference node and meanwhile the ends of the belts are constrained.…”

“…A current survey of belt literature revealed that many investigations addressed nonlinear laminated fiber reinforced elastomer mechanics [1][2][3][4][5], but no useable model was found with adequately detailed three-dimensional computations necessary to distinguish rib to rib stress variation required for misalignment analysis. Connell and Rorrer [6] demonstrated that proper control of belt-pulley tracking parameters reduced noise generated from belt-pulley systems.…”

“…The effect of belt curvature on rib wedge angle and pulley-rib contact pressure was reported. Yu et al [3] presented a three-dimensional static finite element model of a complete loop of half-ribbed belt tracking between two pulleys. The belt elastomer compound was modeled using an adapted form of the Ogden hyperelastic material model.…”

“…However, misalignment was not introduced. Both Yu et al [3], and Lawrence et al [1] used the commercial FEA code ABAQUS.…”

Mode-I fatigue crack growth analysis of V-ribbed belts

“…1) consists of an elastomer or a fabric backing, a layer of polyester cords in a protective cushion elastomer compound and the rib elastomer compound. Yu et al [1] presented a comprehensive study of the belt moving in pulley grooves. A three-dimensional finite element model represented a complete half rib operating between two pulleys.…”