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Pulley Diameter Chart

Selecting the right pulley diameter is crucial for ensuring the proper performance of your conveyor system. The minimum pulley diameter (MPD) is the smallest pulley that a belt can safely operate on. It depends on various factors, including the type of conveyor belt, the application, and the material being conveyed. To help you make informed decisions, we've provided a Min. Pulley Diameter Chart that offers guidance on selecting the correct pulley diameter for your specific needs.

Factors Affecting Minimum
Pulley Diameter:

Belt Type

Different types of conveyor belts have unique characteristics that influence the minimum pulley diameter that can be used. These characteristics include belt thickness(top & bottom covers), flexibility, number of plys and its material composition.

Belt Tension
The tension of the conveyor belt directly impacts the MPD (Minimum Pulley Diameter). Higher belt tensions often require larger pulley diameters to prevent excessive belt stress and potential wear.
Material Load
The weight and characteristics of the material being conveyed can affect the MPD. Heavier loads or materials with sharp edges may require larger pulley diameters.

Using the Minimum Pulley Diameter Chart:

Our Min. Pulley Diameter Chart simplifies the process of selecting the appropriate pulley size. To find the recommended MPD (Minimum Pulley Diameter) for your application, follow these steps:

 

  1. Identify Belt Type: Determine the type of conveyor belt you're using.
  2. Estimate Belt Tension: Calculate the tension requirements based on your specific application.
  3. Assess Material Load: Consider the material characteristics, including weight and any abrasive qualities.
  4. Find Your Solution: Refer to the Min. Pulley Diameter Chart and locate the intersecting factors to identify the recommended MPD.

Heavy Rubber Minimum Recommended Pulley Diameters


Tension Rating
2 Ply/150 lbs.
2 Ply/220 lbs.
3 Ply/330 lbs.
3 Ply/600 lbs.
4 Ply/440 lbs.

Over 80%

16" 16" 18" 30" 24"

60% - 80%

14" 14" 16" 24" 20"

40% - 60%

12" 12" 14" 20" 18"

Below 40%, Tails, Snubs

10" 10" 12" 18" 16"

Other Helpful Formulas

In addition to our Minimum Pulley Diameter Chart, we offer a comprehensive set of formulas to help you calculate the minimum pulley diameter with precision. These formulas take into account specific variables and parameters to provide accurate formulas for your conveyor belt and application. Access our Formulas document:

Why Use the Formulas?
  • Customization: Every conveyor system is unique. By using our formulas, you can tailor the MPD calculation to your specific requirements.
  • Variable Consideration: Our formulas factor in variables such as belt type, belt tension, and material load, ensuring a more accurate MPD calculation.
  • Advanced Calculations: For applications with complex variables, these formulas provide an advanced level of detail to achieve precise results.
How to Use the Formulas
  • Consultation: Review the formulas to understand the variables involved.
  • Data Input: Input the relevant data for your conveyor system into the formulas.
  • Calculation: Execute the calculations to determine the minimum pulley diameter for your unique application.

By following these steps and using the chart, you can confidently choose the right pulley diameter, ensuring the efficient and safe operation of your conveyor system. Selecting the correct MPD also helps extend the life of your conveyor belt and reduces the risk of wear and tear.

Our goal at Davis Industrial is to provide you with the knowledge and resources needed to optimize your conveyor systems. The Min. Pulley Diameter Chart is just one of the many tools we offer to help you achieve exceptional conveyor performance.