V-belts are ordered by section and length. Get either one wrong and the belt will not fit, or will fit and fail early. This chart covers the classical sections A, B, C, D and E, which drive most industrial and agricultural machines in India.
A classical V-belt code such as B-60 means section B with a nominal inside length of 60 inches (about 1,524 mm). Section sizes (top width × height) are A 13 × 8 mm, B 17 × 11 mm, C 22 × 14 mm, D 32 × 19 mm and E 38 × 23 mm. Bigger sections carry more power per belt but need bigger pulleys.
| Parameter | A | B | C | D | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top width × height (mm) | 13 × 8 | 17 × 11 | 22 × 14 | 32 × 19 | 38 × 23 |
| Datum (pitch) width (mm) | 11 | 14 | 19 | 27 | 32 |
| Minimum pulley datum diameter (mm) | 71 | 112 | 180 | 355 | 500 |
| Typical length range (mm) | 490–6,130 | 550–12,180 | 840–16,770 | 2,060–17,810 | 4,660–17,820 |
| Typical weight (kg per metre) | 0.109 | 0.190 | 0.324 | 0.690 | 0.958 |
Values are for Beltone classical belts; see the full Beltone specification table. Running a belt on a pulley smaller than the minimum diameter bends it too sharply and shortens its life.
If the code has worn off, follow our step-by-step guide on how to measure a V-belt.
Wedge belts are deeper for their width and carry more power per belt. They need their own pulleys.
| Section | Top width × height (mm, approx.) | Typical minimum pulley datum diameter (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| SPZ | 10 × 8 | 63 |
| SPA | 13 × 10 | 90 |
| SPB | 16 × 13 | 140 |
| SPC | 22 × 18 | 224 |
We compare the profiles in classical vs wedge vs cogged V-belts.
The right section is chosen from the drive's design power and the speed of the faster pulley, using the belt maker's selection chart. As a general picture:
| Section | Typical drives |
|---|---|
| A | Light drives: small pumps, fans, workshop machines, small motors |
| B | The most common industrial section: compressors, blowers, mixers, flour mills, general machinery |
| C | Heavier drives: large compressors, crushers, mills, big fans |
| D and E | Very heavy drives: large crushers, ball mills, big industrial fans and pumps |
An A belt in a B groove sits too low, slips and wears its sides; a B belt in an A groove rides high and can roll over. The belt section must match the pulley groove. A groove gauge settles any doubt.
What does B-60 mean on a V-belt?B is the section (17 mm wide, 11 mm high) and 60 is the nominal inside length in inches, which is about 1,524 mm.
What is the difference between an A and a B section V-belt?Size and power. An A belt is 13 × 8 mm; a B belt is 17 × 11 mm, carries more power and needs a larger minimum pulley.
Can I use a B belt on an A pulley?No. The belt section must match the pulley groove, otherwise the belt rides wrongly, slips and wears out fast.
How do I know which V-belt size I need?Read the code printed on the old belt. If it is worn off, measure the section width and the length, or send us the pulley sizes and centre distance.
Know your belt code? Send us the section, size and quantity on WhatsApp and our team will confirm availability. Beltone classical belts are made to IS 2494.