How to calculate natural frequency of timing belt

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the natural frequency of a timing belt in a belt pulley system, particularly to avoid resonance at an ideal shaft RPM of 8000 RPM. Participants explore various approaches, equations, and resources related to this topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on calculating the natural frequency of a timing belt, mentioning the importance of belt pretension.
  • Another participant suggests treating the belt as a vibrating string and calculating resonant frequencies based on different tensions in the belt when running.
  • A third participant provides links to resources that may contain useful information regarding maximum speeds and other relevant calculations for timing belts.
  • One participant mentions a basic formula for V-belts that relates pulley diameter, drive RPM, and belt length as a potential starting point for calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on a specific method for calculating the natural frequency, and multiple approaches and resources are suggested without agreement on a singular solution.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the variability in tension during operation and the potential influence of pulley speeds and belt engagement on resonant frequencies, indicating that assumptions may need to be clarified for accurate calculations.

friscoboya
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Hello

I am designing a shaft and it will be powered via belt pulley system. The ideal RPM of the shaft is 8000 RPM. How do I calculate the natural frequency of the timing belt to ensure resonance is never met? From what I read online it has to do with belt pretension, but even then I am little lost. Equations and links would be helpful.

upload_2018-11-28_17-17-46.png

Thank you
 

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Not really my field but if I had to approach this problem I would look at this...

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/String_vibration

Treat each unsupported length of belt as a potentially vibrating string. Remember the tension in each side is different when its running. Calculate likely resonant frequencies for both sides.

Then think about possible drivers at or near those frequencies? For example the rate at which teeth engage or disengage with the ends of an unsupported length? Perhaps the pulley speeds (in revolutions per second) or perhaps the whole belt speed (in revolutions per second)?

But perhaps there is a more formal method?
 

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