Common Types of V-Belts: Sizes, Applications & Selection Guide

Published Sep 27, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

What Is a V-Belt?

A V-belt is a common power-transmission belt used across industrial, agricultural, and automotive equipment. The belt’s trapezoidal "V" cross-section fits into pulley grooves and creates a secure wedge action to reduce slippage.

Why Choosing The Right V-Belt Matters

Selecting the proper V-belt improves machine efficiency, reduces wear, and extends service life. Incorrect selection can cause premature failure, increased energy use, and unplanned downtime.

Main Types of V-Belts

1. Classical V-Belts

The conventional V-belt is the most common type and has been around the longest. The Initial classical V design replaced leather belts by taking over their applications in various industries, such as agriculture, ventilation, and industrial machinery. Classical V-belts can cover a load range from fractional(less than 1 HP) to 500 horsepower. They are less efficient than narrow V-belts and generally contribute to higher bearing loads. However, classical V-belts have a high tolerance for poor operating conditions. The general part number format is the cross-section size and the inside length in inches ( e.g., B50 is a B section of 50 inches inside measurement). General cross-sectional dimensions that are used in the US are shown below.

• Identification: A, B, C, D, E sections + internal length in inches (e.g., B50).
• Features: Traditional design, flexible, suitable for a wide power range.
• Applications: Fans, conveyors, agriculture equipment, HVAC drives.

2. Narrow V-Belts (Wedge Belts)

• Identification: 3V, 5V, 8V with outside length (e.g., 5V500).
• Features: Deeper profile, higher power density, works well where space is limited.
• Applications: Compressors, pumps, heavy-duty and high-speed machinery.

Note: An "X" suffix (e.g., 5VX) typically indicates a cogged (notched) belt for better flexibility and cooling.

3. Fractional Horsepower (FHP) V-Belts

• Identification: 2L, 3L, 4L, 5L (e.g., 3L300).
• Features: Lightweight, economical, designed for low-power use.
• Applications: Household appliances, small fans, light equipment.

Quick Comparison

How to Choose the Right V-Belt

• Power & Speed: Match horsepower and RPM.
• Pulley & Shaft: Consider pulley size and belt length.
• Environment: Heat, dust, oil, moisture matter.
• Load Type: Continuous vs shock loads.
• Efficiency vs Cost: Narrow belts are efficient but more expensive.

Conclusion

V-belts remain a cost-effective and reliable choice for many power transmission applications. Knowing the differences—classical, narrow, and FHP—helps you choose the right solution for performance and efficiency.

📌 Next Steps

• Contact us for expert help
• Download V-Belt Size Chart