Accessory Belt Critical Operational Parameters

Serpentine belt derives using multi-ribbed belts have largely replaced the older practice of using V-belts to drive individual accessories of an automobile. This system consists of a single belt running over multiple accessory pulleys. The engine provides the power via a crank-shaft pulley. An important component is the automatic tensioner, which consists of an idler pulley mounted on a spring loaded tensioner arm. The tensioner maintains proper tension in the belt as the power drawn by accessories and the engine speed change. The advantages of serpentine drives over V-belts include simplified assembly and replacement, longer belt life, compactness and automatic tension loss compensation.In this paper, fundamental operational matters in accessory belt will be investigated and their importance is explained separately. An accessory belt characterization test has been done on a combustion engine and its results will be illustrated. Comprehensive conclusion and discussing the results is final section.

Keywords:

Accessory belt , Operational parameters , Characterization test