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SubjectFree lesson

Belts and chain drives 2

ClassNotes Team 2 MIN READUPDATED 16 JUN 2026

BASIC TECHNOLOGY JSS2 Third term

Sub-Theme: Tools, machines and processes

WEEK 2

Belts and chain drives 2

Performance objectives

Students should be able to:

  1. State the advantages and disadvantages of belt and chain drives

Content

Advantages and disadvantages of belt and chain drives

Advantages

  1. They are used in power transmission from one point to another
  2. They are used in speed selection and changing of speed in locomotive engines.
  3. They are harnessed in changing of direction of rotations in machines
  4. They are used to produce smooth running at high and low speed.

Disadvantages

  1. Overheating may occur when there is no regular oiling.
  2. The driven may not function well if the belt is not firm on the pulley
  3. Damage may occur when there is no proper maintenance

                             

Similarities between belt and chain drives

  1. They are both mechanical drives
  2. They are suitable for transmitting power and motion for medium to larger shaft distance. For a short distance, the gear drive is preferred
  3. They require adjustment in tension; otherwise, slip percentage increases as the belt or chain stretch out with service time.
  4. They can be applied for the parallel shaft and drive shafts only.