Transmission Belts
In power transmission, a belt is a mechanical element used to connect several rotating shafts. They are often used in material handling applications as well as in industrial and agricultural machinery.

Flat Belts
The most common form of power transmission belt is the friction drive belt, which relies on friction between the belt and pulley to transmit power. This type of belt requires tension to maintain the proper amount of friction and can be made from flat or V-shaped belts.

V-belts (also known as endless belts, Texrope belts or rope drives) have a wedging effect on the pulleys that increases their contact area for power transfer. These belts are commonly found in conveyor systems, pumps, elevators and gearboxes.

Synchronous Belts
Another popular form of power transmission belt is the toothed or synchronous belt, which transfers force through teeth on the belt that engage corresponding grooves on the pulley. This type of belt does not slip and is used in applications where accuracy in timing and position are important.

Adapter Belts
These are flexible and circular in cross section, with an inner diameter of between 1/8" to 3/16". They are used for applications where the belt is expected to twist or turn a lot, contacting multiple pulleys.

Round Belts
Round belts are circular in cross section and fit into U or V-shaped grooves in the pulley. They are used for motion control as well as power transmission applications in line shafts, packaging machines, photocopiers and printers.