Maybe. You can consider that the take-up (TUP) can be:

1. fixed by displacement

2. fixed with tension control,

3. gravity,

4. gravity with capstan control

5. other manifestations.

I can invent ways the take-up can effect power and belt rating.

6. Fix it with too low a tension - allows belt unacceptable belt sag between idlers when loaded or during special loading cases, or with extremes in temperature range that then causes excessive idler indention and belt flexural rheological drag = higher power than a higher TUP tension would provide.

7. Momentary tension extremes due to loss of proper TUP tension that can cause local belt tension drop. The local drop may only occur when using a gravity TUP. The local drop increase rolling resistance and exacerbates tension differential and produces high TUP displacement

I can design these unacceptable features out of the design equation with many tools. The logic is many fold and too pedantic for the form. I leave such to those who wish to write a lot about a little. ■

First, you must understand the definition of Automatic. Something that adjusts without manual intervention. This can be load cell with powered winch or gravity

Second, as a designer, you shuld know: a) take-up value is set to eliminate drive, or b) brake pulley belt slip, set to reduce belt sag along the carry strand to minimize power loss, tracking performance or product spillage.

Lower belt tensions increase belt flexure between idlers that increase power to overcome added belt alternating bending and product distrubance between each idler set.

Third, selection of take-up can be anywhere along 360 degree belt loop. What matters is what belt tension is required to control belt tractive tension at the drive/brake station, and what tension is required along loop to regulate belt sag. We do not allow belt sag to fall below 1% with product on belt to reduce power loss from flexure. CEMA says 2%. ■

The average belt line tension may be affected negatively by a poor take-up tension arrangement but this should not affect the power/enregy draw significantly.

Joe Dos Santos ■