15
Minimum Belt Tension
• There are limits as to how low a span tension value the meter can
measure depending upon the belt type and cross section. Minimum
recommended installation tension values are available for all belt
sections from either drive design manuals or Gates Product Application
Engineering. Attempting to measure belt tensions below these
minimum recommended values should be avoided, as the meter may
display “Error” or provide inaccurate results. If the belt span tension is
low, and a tension reading cannot be obtained, try increasing the belt
tension and then take another reading.
New Belt Installation
• Before measuring belt installation tension, turn the drive over by hand
for several revolutions to fully seat the belt and equalize tension in
all of the belt spans. Factors such as sprocket/shaft eccentricity, belt/
sheave groove irregularity, etc., can influence belt tension as the
sprockets or sheaves rotate. If the measured belt tension changes
significantly as the drive is rotated, and accurate measurements
are needed, determine the low and high values and average them
together.
Windy Environment
• Wind can adversely affect the ability of the meter to make a reading by
creating excessive background noise. If measuring in a windy location,
the Inductive Sensor should be used instead of a microphone sensor.
Inductive Sensor
• An optional Inductive Sensor should be utilized in noisy or windy
environments for optimal results. The Inductive Sensor uses a
magnetic field rather than sound waves.
A simple way to use this sensor is with a magnet taped to the backside
of the belt. Small “rare earth” magnets provide excellent results with
minimal influence on the belt span frequency due to the added weight.
Using Frequency Mode
• If an assembly process is used to set belt tension in a particular
application, and the meter is used only to monitor belt installation
tensions, the frequency mode can be used rather than displaying an
absolute measured tension value. Belt span frequencies for minimum
and maximum tension conditions can be measured so assemblers/
technicians can use the meter to verify that belt installation tension is
within an acceptable range.
SonicTensionMeter_Manual_4_14.indd 15 4/26/14 9:09 AM
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General
