Recommended Tooth Number Selection for Driving and Driven Synchronous Pulleys

Synchronous pulley transmission systems, characterized by their efficiency, precision, and smoothness, have found widespread application in various mechanical equipment. The selection of tooth numbers for driving and driven synchronous pulleys directly affects the performance, stability, and service life of the transmission system. This article delves into the recommended tooth number selection for driving and driven synchronous pulleys, aiming to provide valuable references for practical design and application.

I. Basic Principles for Selecting Synchronous Pulley Tooth Numbers

When selecting the tooth numbers of synchronous pulleys, a series of fundamental principles must be followed to ensure the performance and reliability of the transmission system.

  1. Matching Transmission Ratio:
    The transmission ratio, which is the ratio of the rotational speeds of the driving and driven pulleys, directly determines the selection of tooth numbers. To achieve the required transmission ratio, precise calculations and appropriate tooth number selections are necessary. Additionally, the choice of tooth numbers must consider transmission accuracy and the cumulative effect of errors.

  2. Load Capacity:
    The tooth number of a synchronous pulley directly influences its load capacity. A higher number of teeth increases the contact area between the pulley and the synchronous belt, thereby enhancing load capacity and wear resistance. Therefore, in applications subject to heavy loads, an increase in tooth number is recommended.

  3. Dynamic Performance:
    The tooth number has a significant impact on the dynamic performance of the synchronous pulley transmission system. A lower number of teeth may result in greater vibration and noise, while a higher number provides better smoothness and accuracy. Thus, when selecting tooth numbers, a balance between dynamic performance and manufacturing costs must be struck.

  4. Pulley Diameter:
    The diameter of the synchronous pulley is constrained by the spatial layout of the equipment and the bending radius of the synchronous belt. When determining tooth numbers, the diameter limitation of the pulley should be considered to ensure that the synchronous belt can properly wrap around the pulley.

  5. Materials and Manufacturing Processes:
    The materials and manufacturing processes of synchronous pulleys also affect the selection of tooth numbers. High-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes can support higher tooth numbers and more complex transmission systems.

II. Recommended Selection of Tooth Numbers for Driving and Driven Pulleys

Based on the aforementioned principles, the following are recommended selections for the tooth numbers of driving and driven pulleys.

  1. Selection of Driving Pulley Tooth Number:
    • High-Speed Transmission: In high-speed transmission systems, to reduce vibration and noise, a smaller number of teeth is recommended. Fewer teeth reduce the number of contacts between the synchronous belt and the pulley, thereby lowering noise and vibration levels. However, too few teeth may lead to premature wear of the synchronous belt and decreased transmission accuracy, so a balance must be found.
    • Low-Speed Transmission: In low-speed transmission systems, to improve transmission accuracy and smoothness, a larger number of teeth is recommended. More teeth can distribute the load, reduce stress concentration, and enhance system stability. Additionally, a higher number of teeth can better adapt to load variations, improving the durability of the transmission system.
  2. Selection of Driven Pulley Tooth Number:
    • Based on Transmission Ratio: The tooth number of the driven pulley should be determined according to the transmission ratio and the tooth number of the driving pulley. Through precise calculations, ensure that the tooth number of the driven pulley matches the driving pulley to meet the transmission ratio requirements.
    • Considering Load and Speed: When selecting the tooth number of the driven pulley, the effects of load and speed must also be considered. In applications subject to heavy loads or high speeds, the tooth number of the driven pulley should be increased appropriately to enhance load capacity and wear resistance.
  3. Considerations for Tooth Number Matching:
    • Avoiding Resonance: When selecting the tooth numbers of the driving and driven pulleys, resonance phenomena should be avoided. Resonance can lead to instability and damage to the transmission system. Therefore, resonance analysis should be conducted when selecting tooth numbers to ensure the stability and reliability of the transmission system.
    • Considering Synchronous Belt Lifespan: The lifespan of the synchronous belt is influenced by various factors, including tooth number, material, manufacturing process, and operating environment. When selecting tooth numbers, these factors should be comprehensively considered to ensure that the synchronous belt can operate normally in specific environments and achieve the expected lifespan.

III. Case Study on Tooth Number Selection

The following is a case study on tooth number selection for a synchronous pulley transmission system for reference.

Case Background:
A mechanical device requires a synchronous pulley transmission system with a reduction ratio of 2:1. The rotational speed of the driving pulley is 3000rpm, and the load on the driven pulley is 1000N·m.

Tooth Number Selection Process:

  1. Determine Transmission Ratio:
    The reduction ratio is 2:1, meaning the rotational speed of the driving pulley is twice that of the driven pulley.

  2. Select Driving Pulley Tooth Number:
    Considering the high rotational speed of the driving pulley, to reduce vibration and noise, a tooth number of 20 is selected.

  3. Calculate Driven Pulley Tooth Number:
    According to the transmission ratio formula, the tooth number of the driven pulley = tooth number of the driving pulley × transmission ratio = 20 × 2 = 40.

  4. Verify Load Capacity:
    Based on the selected tooth numbers and the specifications of the synchronous belt, verify the load capacity of the driven pulley. Ensure that the driven pulley can withstand the required load with sufficient margin.

  5. Consider Dynamic Performance and Manufacturing Costs:
    Comprehensively assess the impact of the selected tooth numbers on the dynamic performance and manufacturing costs of the transmission system. Ensure optimal transmission performance and reliability while minimizing manufacturing costs.

Conclusion:
In this case, a tooth number of 20 for the driving pulley and 40 for the driven pulley were selected, achieving the required transmission ratio and load capacity. Additionally, through verification and assessment, the stability and reliability of the transmission system were ensured.