industrial belt and drive preventive maintenance - Gates Corporation

XII. Troubleshooting methods and toolsAnalytical toolsStrobe lightYou cannot always see what ishappening to a drive while it is inoperation. The strobe light allowsyou to stop the action to get a betteridea of the dynamic forces affectingthe drive. This instrument is best usedafter initial diagnosis of the problem because it helps pinpointthe cause. It will help you identify such things as single or dualmode belt span vibration and frame flexure. It is also used tomeasure and check rotation and vibration movements and tofacilitate the measurement of very small objects or hard-toaccessplaces. (Note: this tool is available from Gates.)Infra-red thermometerWhile your hands can be the first checkfor belt temperature problems, the infraredthermometer allows you to measurebelt temperatures more accurately. Thedevice collects the infra-red energyradiated by the belt and transforms it intoa temperature value. It offers quick andreliable surface temperature readingswithout contact.(Note: this tool is available from Gates.)Laser alignment deviceLASER AT-1 identifies parallel as wellas angular misalignment betweenthe pulleys and is suitable for pulleydiameters of 60 mm and larger.Mounted in a few seconds, the laserline projected on the targets allows you to quickly ascertainand correct misalignment. It can be used on both horizontallyand vertically mounted machines.(Note: this tool is available from Gates.)Sound level meterThis A/C rated instrument allows you to quicklyand accurately measure the noise level your driveproduces in dB. It distinguishes noises rangingfrom 30 dB to 130 dB.(Note: this tool is only available when buyingthe Gates MRO tool bag and cannot be boughtseparately.)Digital multimeterIf belts are failing prematurely, it is possible the driveN loadwas underestimated when the drive was designed. Use thedigital multimeter to check the actual load being delivered byan electric motor. The clamp-on style allows youto do this safely, without baring wires or worryingabout electrical connections. This tool can alsobe used to troubleshoot vibration problemsif they are caused by electrical sources suchas arcing switches, power surges or electricalconnections.(Note: this tool is only available when buyingthe Gates MRO tool bag and cannot be boughtseparately.)3 Tension metersImproper belt tension, either too high ortoo low, can cause belt drive problems.Although the “experienced thumb” will suitordinary V-belt drives, Gates recommends the useof the tension gauge for critical drives. Severaltension meter types are available. The penciltype suits most situations. To facilitate tensionmeasuring, Gates has developed two tensiontesters. The “Single tension tester” measuresdeflection force of up to ±12 kg and the “Doubletension tester” measures deflection force ofup to ±30 kg.Gates also supplies the 507 sonic tensionmeter working with sound waves. The primeadvantage of this device is complete reliabilityand hence repeatability of measurement. The507C sonic tension meter ensures simple andextremely accurate tension measurement byanalysing sound waves from the belt throughthe sensor. It processes the input signals anddisplays the accurate tension measurement digitally.Consult your Gates representative for suitability of the tensionmeter for different belt product lines.Also consult pages 7 to 8 for more information.(Note: all tension meters are available from Gates.)Digital caliperBy means of this device you can determinepulley, belt and other components’ dimensions,ranging from 0.01 mm to 150 mm.(Note: this tool is only available when buyingthe Gates MRO tool bag and cannot be boughtseparately.)Support tools• Flashlight• 2 different screwdriver sets• Eye protector• Length gauge• Multitool• Inspection mirror• Ear protector• Overall• Digital camera(Note: these tools are only available when buying the GatesMRO tool bag and cannot be bought separately.)42