Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
The field of invention relates to mechanical power transmission systems, specifically to V-belts used in such systems. More precisely, it concerns the design and manufacture of Classical BX Section V-belts reinforced with aramid cords and EPDM compounds.

BACKGROUND
V-belts, composed of a specific cross-section, are widely used in mechanical devices to transmit power between axles by linking two or more rotating shafts. Traditionally made from rubber or other polymers, these belts often incorporate reinforcement cords, which confer added strength and durability under operational stress. The use of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber has become prevalent due to its outstanding resistance to heat, ozone, and weathering, enhancing the belt's lifespan and performance in harsh environments. Additionally, reinforcement cords made from aramid fibers are recognized for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to stretching, further optimizing the belt's function in power transmission systems. These improvements are crucial in applications requiring high performance in elevated temperature or mechanically demanding test conditions.

The prior art describes numerous solutions for increasing functionality of various devices. With a focus on enhancing performance and effectiveness, it discloses methods and systems that utilize advanced techniques. These technological candidates, however, often face drawbacks such as high cost, complexity, and slow speed. They also sometimes lack stability and reliability.

The typical polyester cord used in constructing these types of belts often tend to elongate over time, thus compromising the belt's stability and efficacy, especially in high-temperature environments. Furthermore, the inherent properties of chloroprene compound, which is often deployed in belt fabrication, limits temperature tolerance to around 80°C, thus making it unsuitable for applications that require exposure to higher heat levels. The compounded effect of these deficiencies is frequently manifested as reduced power efficiency and service life.

The described shortcomings inherent to conventional V-belts underscore the need for a novel solution. An improved mechanism offering efficient power transmission and durability under elevated temperature conditions, effectively outperforming the performance threshold of the existing solutions and thereby mitigating the impact of their limitations, is thereby necessitated. Such an invention can meet the rising demand for reliable and efficient power conversion systems in various high-temperature applications, augmenting the scope and versatility of such devices.

SUMMARY
One or more of the problems of the conventional prior art may be overcome by various embodiments of the present disclosure.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the invention comprises a Classical BX Section V-belt comprising an aramid reinforcement cord and an EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) compound, enabling the V-belt to operate efficiently in high-temperature environments between 90°C and 120°C

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the aramid reinforcement cord in the V-belt provides enhanced tensile strength and reduced elongation.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the EPDM compound in the V-belt offers improved heat resistance and durability and can withstand temperatures up to 120°C without degradation.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the belt construction includes an EPDM coated fabric with a polyester and polyamide composition ratio of 80:20, providing enhanced flexibility and reduced stiffness.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the included EPDM coated fabric has an elongation at break in the weft direction of at least 80%.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the base compound of the V-belt comprises short fiber EPDM, providing superior abrasion resistance and improved tensile strength compared to conventional fiber-filled chloroprene base compounds.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the aramid reinforcement cord in the V-belt consists of a 3x4 ply construction, enhancing the belt's load-bearing capacity and overall strength.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the belt's nominal top width is approximately 16.50 mm, and the nominal height is approximately 10.70 mm, which is inline to global standard profile dimensions for Classical BX Section V-belts. This nominal top width and nominal height will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. To improve the flexibility, it has been designed with 16.50mm / 10.70mm of nominal top width & nominal height.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the belt demonstrates a power transmission efficiency increase of at least 30% over conventional polyester cord and chloroprene compound V-belts under the same operational conditions.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a Classical BX Section V-belt is provided. This method includes the steps of incorporating an aramid reinforcement cord into the belt structure. The reinforcement cord is prepared by twisting together 3 plies and 4 cables to form a 3x4 ply construction. The method further includes applying an EPDM compound to the belt. The EPDM compound used in the belt manufacturing process is formulated to withstand temperatures up to 120°C. The belt is formed with an EPDM coated fabric with a polyester and polyamide composition ratio of 80:20. After the formation, the belt is cured so as to achieve a durable and heat-resistant product capable of operating at temperatures between 90°C and 120°C.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a power transmission system is provided. The system includes a drive pulley and a driven pulley. The Classical BX Section V-belt as claimed in any of the preceding claims, operatively connects the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The system enables efficient power transmission under elevated temperature conditions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawing,

Figure 1 illustrates Cross-Sectional View of Classical BX Section V-Belt in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates the Dimensional Profile of Classical BX Section V-Belt in other aspects of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a graph representing Comparative Chart (Power carrying capacity) of Polyester Cord vs. Aramid Reinforcement Cord in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a graph performance Comparison Chart (No of belts required in the power transmission system): Conventional Polyester Belt vs. Aramid Reinforced EPDM Belt in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
Various embodiments of the disclosure are discussed in detail below. While specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, the following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, known details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description.
References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure can be references to the same embodiment or any embodiment; and such references mean at least one of the embodiments.
Reference to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", “one aspect”, “some aspects”, “an aspect” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.
The terms “layer (s) or two layer or three layers” used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, and no special significance should be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. In some cases, synonyms for certain terms are provided.
A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms.
The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any example term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. Without intent to limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods, and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, technical and scientific terms used herein have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions will control.
Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or can be learned by practice of the herein disclosed principles. The features and advantages of the disclosure can be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or can be learned by the practice of the principles set forth herein.
As mentioned before, there is a need for an improved mechanism offering efficient power transmission and durability under elevated temperature conditions, effectively outperforming the performance threshold of the existing solutions and thereby mitigating the impact of their limitations, is thereby necessitated. Such an invention can meet the rising demand for reliable and efficient power conversion systems in various high-temperature applications, augmenting the scope and versatility of such devices.

Figure 1 illustrates the cross-sectional structure of the V-belt, showing the layered configuration with (3) Aramid Reinforcement Cord and (2) EPDM Gum Compound that form the basis of the improved belt design. Figure 1 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the Classical BX Section V-belt. The cross-section shows the different layers that make up the belt, including:
(1) EPDM Coated Fabric, which is used for better flexibility and heat resistance; (3) Aramid Reinforcement Cord to provide enhanced tensile strength and reduced elongation; and (4) Short Fiber EPDM Base Compound to offer superior abrasion resistance and improved tensile strength compared to conventional fiber-filled chloroprene base compounds.

From Fig 1, the materials are as per the following:
1. EPDM Coated Fabric
2. EPDM Gum Compound
3. Aramid Reinforcement Cord
4. Short Fiber EPDM Base Compound
It is important to check the compounds with the conventional cord BX Belt as per the following table.

Table 1
Part No Conventional Cord BX Belt Proposed Aramid Reinforced EPDM BX Belt
1. Chloroprene rubber coated fabric EPDM Coated Fabric
2. Chloroprene Gum compound EPDM Gum compound
3. Polyester reinforcement cord Aramid reinforcement cord
4. Fiber filled Chloroprene base compound Short fiber EPDM base compound

The V-belt is reinforced with Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3), which is known for its high tensile strength and minimal elongation under load. The reinforcement cord consists of a 3x4 ply construction, where 3 plies are twisted together with 4 cables to form a robust structure that significantly enhances the belt’s load-bearing capacity. The aramid material’s resistance to stretching ensures that the belt maintains its dimensional stability and performance over prolonged use, even in mechanically demanding conditions.

The primary rubber compound used in the belt is EPDM Gum Compound (2), selected for its excellent resistance to heat, ozone, and environmental degradation. The EPDM compound is formulated to endure high temperatures up to 120°C, ensuring that the belt remains functional and reliable in applications where conventional belts would fail. This compound also contributes to the belt’s overall durability and reduces the frequency of maintenance or replacement.

In some embodiments, the dimensions of the BX Section V-belt are crucial for ensuring that it fits properly in the pulleys, transmits power efficiently, and withstands the operational stresses of elevated test conditions. These dimensions directly impact the belt's performance, durability, and the overall reliability of the power transmission system.

Table 2

From the above table 2, In a conventional BX belt with a cord, the fabric is made from square woven polycotton fractioned with poly chloroprene rubber, using a 50:50 ratio of polyester to cotton. This composition limits the belt's flexibility, as a 50:50 ratio generally results in reduced flexibility.

In contrast, the Aramid-reinforced EPDM BX belt uses a fabric coated with EPDM, consisting of an 80:20 ratio of polyester to polyamide (nylon). This composition offers improved flexibility due to the higher elongation at break percentage in the weft direction and the lower count of polyamide filaments in the weft direction of the fabric. As a result of this invention, the Aramid-reinforced EPDM BX belt demonstrates better flexibility compared to the conventional cord BX belt during performance

In a conventional BX belt with a cord, a chloroprene compound is used as the gum compound, which limits the temperature resistance to a maximum of 80°C. This limitation arises from the presence of chlorine atoms in its polymer structure, which reduces its thermal stability under elevated temperatures.

In contrast, the Aramid-reinforced EPDM BX belt uses an EPDM compound as the gum compound, offering superior heat-resistant properties due to the absence of unsaturation in the polymer chain backbone.

As a result of this change, the Aramid-reinforced EPDM BX belt can withstand higher temperatures, up to 120°C, compared to the conventional cord BX belt during performance.

In a conventional Cord BX belt, a chloroprene fiber-loaded compound is used as the base compound, while an EPDM fiber-loaded compound is employed in the improved version. This invention reveals that the heat resistance of the EPDM compound with nylon fiber is superior to that of the chloroprene compound with cotton fiber. During the performance of this enhanced belt, the observed belt life is longer compared to the chloroprene-based belt, owing to its better tensile strength and excellent resistance to abrasion, heat, weather, ozone, and UV environments.

The following table 3 explains the detailed comparison between Chloroprene & EPDM Base compounds
Table 3
S.No Property Chloroprene compound with Cotton fibre Loaded EPDM compound with Nylon Fibre Loaded
1. Tensile Strength 100 Kgf (Along Direction)
90 Kgf (Across Direction) 210 Kgf (Along Direction)
110 Kgf (Across Direction)
2. Abrasion Resistance Moderate abrasion resistance with cotton cut bits. Good abrasion resistance enhanced by nylon fibres.
3. Heat Resistance Minimum : -30°C (may become stiff)
Maximum : Up to 100°C Minimum : -50°C (remains flexible)
Maximum : Up to 150°C
4. Continuous Operating Temperature Range -30°C to 80°C -40°C to 120°C
5. Low Temperature Resistance Becomes stiff at low temperatures Maintains flexibility and performance at low temperatures (down to -50°C).
6. Durability Good resistance to ozone, weathering, and aging. Moderate resistance to oils and chemicals. Excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, and UV. Resistant to water and steam.

From the above table 3, The comparison between the chloroprene compound with cotton fiber and the EPDM compound with nylon fiber reveals significant differences in performance characteristics. The EPDM compound with nylon fiber demonstrates superior tensile strength, with 210 Kgf along the direction and 110 Kgf across the direction, compared to the chloroprene compound, which has 100 Kgf along and 90 Kgf across the direction. The EPDM compound also offers enhanced abrasion resistance due to the inclusion of nylon fibers, while the chloroprene compound provides only moderate abrasion resistance with cotton cut bits.

In terms of heat resistance, the EPDM compound outperforms the chloroprene compound, remaining flexible down to -50°C and withstanding temperatures up to 150°C. In contrast, the chloroprene compound may become stiff at -30°C and is only stable up to 80°C. The continuous operating temperature range for the EPDM compound is broader, from -40°C to 120°C, while the chloroprene compound operates within a narrower range of -30°C to 80°C.

Additionally, the EPDM compound maintains flexibility and performance at low temperatures, even down to -50°C, whereas the chloroprene compound tends to become stiff. Durability is another area where the EPDM compound excels, offering excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, UV, water, and steam, compared to the chloroprene compound, which has good resistance to ozone, weathering, and aging, but only moderate resistance to oils and chemicals

In Figure 2, the dimensional profile of Classical BX Section V-Belt is shown where this figure represents an example we can compare key measurements: Nominal Top Width (W): 16.50 mm, Datum Width (Wd): 14.00 mm, Nominal Height (T): 10.70 mm, Included Angle (A): 38°. We can compare these dimensions with those of a conventional cord BX belt, emphasizing the optimized dimensions for improved performance in power transmission applications.

The Classical BX Section V-Belt with Aramid reinforcement and EPDM compound exhibits slight dimensional variations when compared to the standard profile. Specifically, the nominal top width (W) of the Aramid reinforced EPDM BX Sec belt is 16.50 mm, slightly narrower than the standard profile's 17.00 mm. The datum width (Wd) remains consistent at 14.00 mm for both profiles. However, the nominal height (T) of the Aramid reinforced belt is 10.70 mm, which is marginally lower than the standard profile's 11.00 mm. Additionally, the included angle (A) of the belt is 38°. These dimensional differences are critical as they influence the belt's fit within the pulley grooves, affecting its overall performance and efficiency in power transmission applications (Ref Fig 1).

The belt construction includes a fabric layer coated with EPDM Coated Fabric (1), where the fabric is composed of an 80:20 ratio of polyester to polyamide. This specific composition provides the belt with increased flexibility, reducing stiffness and allowing it to conform more effectively to the pulleys. The fabric also exhibits an elongation at break in the weft direction of at least 80%, which contributes to the belt’s ability to absorb shocks and maintain performance under varying loads.

The base layer of the belt incorporates Short Fiber EPDM Base Compound (4), which enhances the belt’s abrasion resistance and tensile strength compared to traditional chloroprene-based compounds. This improvement is particularly beneficial in applications where the belt may be exposed to abrasive materials or surfaces, as it prolongs the belt’s service life and maintains its functional integrity.

The belt is designed to conform to global standard dimensions for Classical BX Section V-belts, with a nominal top width of approximately 16.50 mm and a nominal height of approximately 10.70 mm. These dimensions ensure compatibility with existing mechanical systems and allow for easy integration and replacement in various power transmission setups.

Figure 3 presents a comparative chart that illustrates the differences in performance characteristics between polyester cords and Aramid Reinforcement Cords (3). The aramid cords show superior strength, lower elongation, and better heat resistance compared to conventional polyester cords. This figure provides a chart comparing the properties of the aramid reinforcement cord used in the V-belt with the conventional polyester cord. The chart includes Power carrying capacity of individual belt.
The combination of Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3) and EPDM Gum Compound (2) results in a V-belt that offers a power transmission efficiency increase of at least 30% over conventional belts using polyester cords and chloroprene compounds. This efficiency gain is particularly evident in high-temperature applications, where the belt’s ability to maintain performance under stress leads to reduced energy losses and improved overall system efficiency.

Figure 4 provides a performance comparison chart between the conventional polyester belt and the aramid reinforced EPDM belt. The chart demonstrates the higher efficiency and fewer belts required when using the aramid reinforced EPDM belt for the same power transmission applications. Where the Power Rating (Kw) of a single belt are taken at one axis, the number of belts required to achieve a specified design power is on the other axis. The chart demonstrates that the aramid reinforced EPDM belt requires fewer belts (e.g., 7 vs. 5) to achieve the same design power, indicating higher efficiency and reduced system weight.

The method of manufacturing the Classical BX Section V-belt involves several critical steps:

Aramid Reinforcement Cords (3) are prepared by twisting together 3 plies with 4 cables to create the 3x4 ply construction. This process ensures that the cords have the necessary tensile strength and resistance to stretching.

EPDM Gum Compound (2) is applied to the belt’s structure, providing the necessary thermal resistance and durability. The compound is specifically formulated to withstand temperatures up to 120°C, ensuring the belt’s reliability in high-temperature environments.

EPDM Coated Fabric (1) with an 80:20 polyester-polyamide composition is incorporated into the belt, contributing to its flexibility and reduced stiffness. This step is crucial for ensuring that the belt operates smoothly and efficiently in mechanical systems. After the belt is assembled, it undergoes a curing process to solidify its structure and enhance its performance characteristics. The curing process is designed to optimize the belt’s resistance to heat, abrasion, and mechanical stress.

The V-belt is designed to be used in power transmission systems where it connects a drive pulley to a driven pulley. The system benefits from the belt’s enhanced capabilities, including improved power transmission efficiency, resistance to elongation, and durability under high-temperature conditions. These features make the belt an ideal solution for industrial applications that demand reliable and efficient power transmission, even in challenging environments. the V-belt may be made up of EPDM compound reinforced with nylon fiber. This composition is chosen due to its superior tensile strength, excellent abrasion resistance, enhanced heat resistance (up to 120°C), and its ability to maintain flexibility and performance even at extremely low temperatures (down to -50°C). Additionally, the EPDM compound offers outstanding durability, including excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, UV, water, and steam, making it a more reliable and long-lasting option compared to a V-belt made with a chloroprene compound and cotton fiber.

The present invention provides a significant advancement in the field of mechanical power transmission by introducing a V-belt that combines the best properties of Aramid Reinforcement Cords (3) and EPDM Gum Compounds (2). This Classical BX Section V-belt offers superior performance, durability, and efficiency in high-temperature environments, addressing the limitations of conventional belts and meeting the growing demand for reliable power transmission solutions in modern industrial applications. The detailed construction, material selection, and manufacturing process of this V-belt ensure its capability to outperform existing technologies, making it a valuable innovation in the industry.

, C , Claims:1. A composite for a Classical BX Section V-belt comprising:
(i) an Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3);
(ii) an EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) Compound (2); and
(iii) a base compound comprising Short Fiber EPDM (4);
wherein the Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3) provides enhanced tensile strength and reduced elongation, and the EPDM Compound (2) offers improved heat resistance and durability, enabling the V-belt to operate efficiently in high-temperature environments between 90°C and 120°C.
2. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3) has a breaking strength of at least 250 Kgf and an elongation at break of less than 3%.
3. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the EPDM Compound (2) can withstand temperatures up to 120°C without degradation.
4. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the belt construction includes an EPDM Coated Fabric (1) with a polyester and polyamide composition ratio of 80:20, providing enhanced flexibility and reduced stiffness.
5. The V-belt as claimed in claim 4, wherein the EPDM Coated Fabric (1) has an elongation at break in the weft direction of at least 80%.
6. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base compound comprises Short Fiber EPDM (4), providing superior abrasion resistance and improved tensile strength compared to conventional fiber-filled chloroprene base compounds.
7. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3) consists of a 3x4 ply construction, enhancing the belt's load-bearing capacity and overall strength.
8. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the belt's nominal top width is approximately 16.50 mm, and the nominal height is approximately 10.70 mm, conforming to global standard profile dimensions for Classical BX Section V-belts.
9. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the belt demonstrates a power transmission efficiency increase of at least 30% over conventional polyester cord and chloroprene compound V-belts under the same operational conditions.
10. The V-belt as claimed in claim 1, wherein the V belt may be made up of EPDM compound reinforced with nylon fiber
11. A method of manufacturing a Classical BX Section V-belt, comprising the steps of:
i. incorporating an Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3) into the belt structure;
ii. applying an EPDM Compound (2) to the belt;
iii. forming the belt with an EPDM Coated Fabric (1) with a polyester and polyamide composition ratio of 80:20; and
iv. curing the belt to achieve a durable and heat-resistant product capable of operating at temperatures between 90°C and 120°C.
11. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the Aramid Reinforcement Cord (3) is prepared by twisting together 3 plies and 4 cables to form a 3x4 ply construction.
12. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the EPDM Compound (2) used in the belt manufacturing process is formulated to withstand temperatures up to 120°C.
13. A power transmission system comprising:
i. a drive pulley and a driven pulley;
ii. a Classical BX Section V-belt as claimed in any of the preceding claims, operatively connecting the drive pulley and the driven pulley, enabling efficient power transmission under elevated temperature conditions.