will

SECTION 2

IV. TENSION RELATIONSHIPS Consider a rope or bell, as in Figure 2-2, hanging over a pulley that resists rotation. Tensions TA and TB arc caused by large and small weights, respectively. Common experience teaches that, if the coefficient of friction between belt and pulley is large enough, a considerable difference in tension is possible in such a system. Experience also tells as that, when the arc of contact is reduced (as in Figure 2 . 3 with a freely turning idler), TB must be larger to keep the belt from slipping. The essential factors are the tensions, the coefficient of friction, and the angle or arc of contact. If, in Figure 2.2 or 2-3, the unbalanced tension (T A - TB) is large enough to overcome the resistance, the pulley

turn, but tire action is limited by the length of the belt. It is an easy step to Figure 2 .4, where a joined or endless belt is applied to two pulleys. A turning moment or torque applied at shaft 01 causes a torque at shaft Oz. Thus, the action described in Figure 2.2 is applicable continuously in a system like Figure 2.4, thus illustrating tile fundamental tension relations in belt driving. To find the relation of T A , coefficient of friction (I), and the arc of contact (a) in radians, refer to Figure 2-5, Whiell represents a very small element of the belt of Fig ures 22, 2-3, or 2-4. The tension in the belt at 4 is T, and at a it is (T + AT) dne to friction. The element "ab" subtends the very small angle Aa. The forces are more

Figure 2-2
FREELY TURNING IDLER PULLEY

2-2 Figure 2-3 Figure 2-5