Slippage on multiple V-belt drives is more likely to occur on which drive sheave?

Slippage on multiple V-belt drives is more likely to occur on the secondary drive sheave because this is where the belts transmit power from the primary sheave to the driven load. The design of the drive system typically places the secondary sheave under more load during operation, resulting in increased tension on the belts. If the tension is improperly adjusted or if the belts become slick due to wear or contamination, slippage can occur more readily at this point in the system.

Additionally, the secondary sheave plays a critical role in adjusting the speed and torque output of the system, further impacting the likelihood of slippage if there are any issues with alignment or tension. Factors such as contamination, wear of the sheaves, or inadequate belt tension amplify this risk, making it essential to maintain the secondary sheave in optimal condition to ensure proper function and prevent slippage.

The primary sheave typically deals with the initial input of power and is engineered to handle a more stable load condition, while subsequent sheaves, like the secondary one, experience variable operating conditions that increase the potential for slippage. Understanding that the secondary sheave's operational context and load characteristics make it more susceptible to slippage is crucial for maintaining a reliable V-belt drive system.