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Unfortunately, proper storage of belts is often overlooked.  I visit a lot of plants and almost always see equipment belts improperly stored to the detriment of optimal reliability.   Ensuring that the belts used in your equipment are properly stored will result in:

  • Fewer failures upon startup
  • Longer belt service life
  • Better equipment performance
  • Improved safety
  • Preservation of belt warranty coverage

Below are some belt storage tips to help ensure that your equipment functions as healthily and long as possible:

  1. Belts should be stored in a cool and dry environment with no direct sunlight.  Storage temperature should be below 85°F/29.5°C with a relative humidity no higher than 70%. Belt performance is reduced by 50% for every 15°F / 9.5°C above 115°F / 46°C.
  2. Do not store belts in areas exposed to:
    • Airborne chemicals
    • Heat sources
    • Direct sunlight
    • Airflow from heat sources
    • Transformers, refrigerators, motors, or other sources that create ozone
  3. It is not recommended to store belts on the floor. If floor storage is required, the belts should be stored in a protective container and never exposed to foot traffic.
  4. Never twist, bend or crimp belts during storage and handling. Doing so will damage them.
  5. Do not hang belts from pegs as they will distort over time. Do not store belts under any state of tension.
  6. V-belts may be stored by hanging on a wall rack only if hung on a saddle with a diameter at least as large as the minimum diameter sheave recommended for the belt cross-section. If coiling a V-belt for storage, consult the supplier for limits. It is always best to store belts flat on a shelf.
  7. Store belts in the original box. Stacking of belts on top of each other should be limited. Ensure that the belts on the bottom are not damaged by the weight of the belts on top.

Filed under:
, by Trent Phillips CRL CMRP - Novelis