What’s the pulley size?

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To determine the size of a pulley, measure its diameter with a tape measure. Pulleys in a system can have different sizes, and ratios can optimize efficiency. Manufacturers list pulley sizes, and measuring by hand is easy. The ratio of pulley sizes can determine the unknown size. Measuring the height of the cylindrical portion is also necessary to determine the correct belt size.

The size of the pulley is determined by the diameter of the pulley and the easiest way to determine this is to measure the device with a tape measure. In systems that require multiple pulleys, the size of the pulleys can differ and there is usually a ratio that allows the system to operate at optimum efficiency. Pulleys that use belts should also be measured to make sure the belt is the correct width.

The size of a pulley is listed by the manufacturer as part of its specifications. If a pulley needs to be replaced, you can use the serial number stamped on the pulley to verify its size. Websites and catalogs that sell new pulleys will list the size of the pulleys along with the product description.

Measuring pulley size by hand is relatively easy. A person can measure the diameter of the pulley by turning the pulley so that the circular part faces forward. A tape measure is placed from one side of the circle to the other, making sure that the measuring edge passes through the midpoint of the pulley.

In some configurations, the correct pulley size will depend on the ratio of the size of a larger pulley to the size of a smaller pulley. Knowing the size of one of the pulleys and the ratio is all that is needed to figure out what the size of the other pulley in the system is or should be. In this case, the unknown pulley size can be determined by dividing the known size by the ratio.

It may also be necessary to measure the height of the cylindrical portion of the pulley to determine the size of the pulley. Again, using a tape measure is the easiest way to find out your height. If the pulley has a lip on the edges to prevent the belt from slipping off, the lip should not be included in the measurement because the usable surface area of ​​the pulley does not include the leading edges. This measurement is used to determine the correct size belt, which will be slightly narrower than the pulley itself.




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