Finite Element Simulation and Experimental Validation of V-Ribbed Belt Tracking

Abstract

A general three-dimensional finite element model was built to simulate the tracking conditions inherent in automotive front-end accessory drives, specifically, serpentine V-ribbed belt drives. Commercial finite element code ABAQUS was used for the simulation. The analysis is based on a hyper-elastic material model for the belt, and includes the effect of the reinforced cords and fibers in the rubber compound. The model can be used to study different parameters of the belt drive system such as rib number, pulley misalignment, drive wrap angle and drive speed. Experiments were used to validate the finite element model. Belt misalignment force of two, four and six ribbed belts under different misalignment conditions was obtained from experiment and compared with the results from the finite element model. Good correlation between these results brings confidence to the finite element model. Finally, typical FEA simulation results for a six-ribbed belt are presented.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Simulation and Modeling; Finite Element Analysis; Spark Ignition Gasoline Engines

Document Type

Technical Report

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2001 Society of Automotive Engineers, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2001

Link to Full Text

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