V-ribbed belts are non-positive drive components that transmit force from the engine to the ancillary components in the vehicle. They are available in steel, fiberglass, and polyester. In addition, some V-belts have reinforced cords. These cords run circumferentially along the belt. The reinforcement typically runs at a pitch line, which is near the top of the belt.

The V-ribbed concept is a combination of the best features of flat belts and V-belts. It can provide a high capacity and high efficiency of operation. The belt is designed to provide maximum support and load-carrying capacity. A V-ribbed belt is an efficient non-positive drive component that works on the friction principle.

A V-ribbed belt comprises a body, a backface rubber layer, a surface rubber layer, and a compressed rubber layer. An inner rubber portion is also present. Each layer is composed of a mixture of EPDMs, with ethylene content varying.

The surface rubber layer has a thickness from 50 mm to 500 mm. Specifically, the two side surface portions of the outermost pair of V-shaped ribs are covered by the surface rubber layer.

The inner rubber portion is composed of EPDM with 55% ethylene content. This rubber component is kneaded in a Banbury mixer. Afterwards, the rubber composition is shaped into a sheet by calendering.

The tensile cords have been specially designed and engineered. Their total support and high-tensioning characteristics help the belt to be stable in use.

A V-ribbed belt can be used in various orientations, which improves its flexibility. It is widely used in automobiles. For example, the belt drives the air conditioning compressor.