ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the flexible elements: belts and chains. In many cases, their use reduces vibration and shock transmission, simplifies the design of a machine substantially, and reduces the cost. There are four main belt types: flat, round, V, and timing. Flat and round belts may be used for long center distances between the pulleys in a belt drive. A belt drive transfers power from one shaft to another by using a belt and connecting pulleys on the shafts. Chains are used for power transmission between parallel shafts. Types of driven equipment with roller-chain drives include bakery machinery, blowers and fans, boat propellers, compressors, conveyors, clay-working machinery, crushers, elevators, feeders and so on. The primary role of a brake is to absorb energy and dissipate the resulting heat without developing high temperatures. A satisfactory braking or clutching performance requires that the heat generation should not exceed the heat dissipation.
