The following article examines some of the most recent product and industry news related to belts and chains, including news from Continental, Gates, Igus and Tsubaki.

Most of us want to just instinctively squeeze a belt between a pair of pulleys to test the belt tension. What is not as instinctive is just how much force such a procedure can put on the shaft -- often significantly past the manufacturer's rated limits for small motors. This can cause damage to both the shaft and the bearings.

The technology continues to evolve in chain- and belt-driven systems

V-belts look like relatively benign and simple pieces of equipment. They're basically a glorified rubber band, right? Need a replacement? Just measure the top width and circumference, find another belt with the same dimensions, and slap it on the drive. There's only one problem: that approach is about as wrong as you can get.

Just as we now consider rotary dial phones archaic, so are many installed synchronous belt drives. That they continue to operate is testimony to their durability. But that should not prevent you from taking advantage of newer synchronous belt drive technology that can improve both equipment design and field installations.

rotary-type blowers? Examples: for motor KW; RPM; temperature; pressure production; lifetime; etc. In other words, how do I choose between belts or couplings?

ContiTech and Wöhr Team up for Unique Residential Solution.

If you’re replacing your belts more than once per year, it’s time to analyze your drive. From belt crimping damage to high belt installation tension to sprocket misalignment and adverse environmental conditions, this guide walks you through how to identify the reasons behind premature failure and makes recommendations on corrective and preventive measures.