May 2001

Form No. 433-0790

The Technical Truth About Belt Tensioners

Round torsional spring versus flat spring technology which has greater technical advantages?
A round torsional spring, by its very nature, is stronger than a flat spring. Its designed to provide constant belt tension through rotation, rather than creating tension through coiling. Round torsional spring engineering makes it the OEM choice on a wide variety of automotive and industrial applications. Heres why:

Round Torsional Spring

1. Applies an even rotational load that offers resistance
to a compressive force.

Flat Spring
1. Applies resistance through an unevenly
distributed concentric coil.

2. Coil spring materials and manufacturing process

provide tighter dimensional tolerances for better output control.

2. Manufacturing of flat spring wire provides less

dimensional tolerance control. As a result, flat spring dimensions may vary significantly.

3. Applies constant tension across a wider range of

motion because coil diameter remains constant.

3. Tension varies because coiled design operates within

a narrower range rather than operating across all areas of the spring.

Round torsional spring versus flat spring technology which has greater technical advantages?
(continued)

Constant and even tension throughout spring

Pulley and belt movement Uneven tension. Movement in first two springs only

Pulley and belt movement

4. The spring creates no heat build up. The damping

mechanism is a separate unit located between the the spring and the aluminum casting. Less heat means longer tensioner life.

4. Builds up heat from friction caused by greater surface

contact of the spring coils. Heat increases tensioner component wear and failure.

5. Has fewer stress points to weaken tensioner.

Friction occurs only at the top and bottom ends of coils

5. Has more stress points along the spring edges that

can weaken tensioner resulting in spring fatigue.

Heat and noise No friction between coils Constant friction between springs

Why Choose Gates?

Gates builds only round spring automatic belt tensioners. Each with the OE look, fit and long-lasting performance demanded by OEMs. Unlike so-called universal tensioners, Gates tensioners require no retrofitting to make them work. Gates tensioners bolt on just like the tensioner you took off. Choosing the right tensioners is easier when you choose Gates.

Constant friction at the base

Friction caused by up and down movement

The Worlds Most Trusted Name in Belts, Hose and Hydraulics. The Gates Rubber Company 900 S. Broadway Denver, CO 80217-5887 www.gates.com