Mini-lathe question

Mini-lathe question

This topic has 4 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 28 March 2016 at 22:33 by Neil Wyatt.

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28 March 2016 at 18:59 #232139
Mark Bus
Participant
@markbus97330
Hi,

How tight should I set the toothed drive belt on the mini-lathe?

Thanks,

Mark
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28 March 2016 at 18:59 #18039
Mark Bus
Participant
@markbus97330
28 March 2016 at 19:35 #232151
HOWARDT
Participant
@howardt
There should be some deflection of the belt mid way between the pulleys. The amount depends on the belt type, it's width, centre distance and pulley sizes. Look at manufacturers information, Gates is a big manufacturer and covers most belt types.

Howard
28 March 2016 at 19:36 #232152
Martin Connelly
Participant
@martinconnelly55370
I've seen a figure of 1/64" deflection per inch of straight leg from finger pressure.

Martin
28 March 2016 at 22:33 #232191
Neil Wyatt
Moderator
@neilwyatt
It's not hugely critical with toothed belts, if it's loose it will slip under load and scare the pants off you with the noise (and wear the pulley making it more likely to slip again). Too tight and it will wear rapidly.

As pulleys and belts are reasonably cheap neither is too critical; I would say aim for being able to twist the belt 90 degrees with your fingers.

Neil
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