CHAPTER IX. 

 BELTS 



The success of a machine depends largely on the 

 belts. Their proper care, management and adjust- 

 ment are of importance. 



Their material should be of the best quality. If 

 leather, they should run with the grain or smooth side 

 to the pulley, as they will run more easily, transmit 

 more power, and last longer. They will run more 

 freely because the flesh or rough side will expand 

 more easily and adjust itself to the curve of the 

 pulley in running around it, thereby adding to the 

 life of the belt. The smooth side will transmit more 

 power because it brings more surface into actual 

 contact with the pulley. 



Belts should be run just tight enough to perform 

 the work without slipping, for power consumed in 

 slipping is lost. A belt that slips, tends to partially 

 run off the pulley and soon wears out the pulley 

 facings. 



If belts become dry and hard, they should have a 

 dressing of neatsfoot oil with a little rosin mixed in 

 it. Enough rosin should not be used to leave the 

 surface of the belt in a sticky condition. A pliable 

 belt will transmit more power than a belt that is dry 

 and hard. 



Rubber is used quite extensively in some places and 



