Neoprene and polyurethane timing belts are used in a wide range of applications requiring synchronous belting. It's important to understand your specific project's physical and environmental demands when selecting the right timing belt as these materials have different advantages and drawbacks.
Neoprene Timing Belt Characteristics
Neoprene timing belts are often made using a fiberglass rope core, and can be reinforced with nylon facing to reduce wear and de-lamination. These types of synchronous belts are typically used in conjunction with belt sprockets and timing belt pulleys. Some of their features include:
- Audible noise reduction
- High shock absorption
- Resists moisture-induced swelling
- Resists twisting, flexing & stretching under load
- Temperature resistant
Polyurethane Timing Belt Characteristics
Polyurethane (PU) timing belts typically consist of polyurethane molded over a stainless steel or aramid cable spine of the synchronous belt. Polyurethane belts are often paired with sprockets to enable slip-free motion. Some of the physical characteristics and benefits of PU timing belt include:
- High chemical resistance
- Strong abrasion resistance
- Hardness contributes to slower degradation
- Smooth running under high loads
- Resists twisting, flexing & stretching under load
- Resists wear & fatigue
Timing Belts Compared: Drawbacks
Neoprene tends to degrade more rapidly than polyurethane, so timing belts made from neoprene may need replacement more often. Polyurethane timing belts are often noisier than their neoprene counterparts, and tend to swell more in moist environments and warp under direct sunlight, which adds undesired tension to the belt.
Consult Our Engineers for the Best Belt Option
Contact the Berg engineering experts with specific application requirements to determine which Max-M-Drive neoprene or polyurethane belt is best suited for your project. We'll show you the fundamentals of belt drive design, including application-specific design considerations, how to accurately tension a belt drive system, calculations for center distance, horsepower and more.