Noise and Vibration in Power Transmission Belts

Various types of belts are used for transmitting power between input and output shafts. Energy is transferred through contact of a flexible element: the belt, with relatively rigid pulleys. Due to imperfections in the system, noise and vibration are generated.

After a literature review outlining possible noise generating mechanisms by analogy to similar problems, the nature of belt imperfections and related measurement methods are discussed. Simple models are presented to explain the different phenomena occurring during the operation of a drive, relationships between noise and vibration are brought out, and recommendations for belt design, manufacturing and testing are formulated.