idler pulley
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A pulley on a shaft that is not used to transmit power but instead presses against or guides a moving belt to change its direction, adjust its tension, or maintain its alignment.
Usage
An idler pulley is a component in mechanical systems, especially those using belts for power transmission or conveyance. Its primary function is to guide, tension, or route a belt without being a primary driver or driven component.
Examples
- Noun:
- The squeaking noise from the engine was traced to a worn-out idler pulley.
- To install the new serpentine belt, you must first loosen the idler pulley.
- The conveyor system uses several idler pulleys to support the belt's return path.
Advanced Usage
- "to act as an idler pulley": To serve a guiding or tensioning function without being the main source of action or power.
- In the committee, she didn't make decisions but acted as an idler pulley, keeping communication flowing between departments.
Variants and Related Words
- Idler wheel (n): A wheel serving a similar guiding or tensioning function, often used in tracked vehicle systems or tape recorders.
- Tensioner pulley (n): A specific type of idler pulley designed primarily to apply and maintain tension on a belt.
- Guide pulley (n): A pulley used specifically to change the direction of a belt or cable.
Synonyms
- Guide pulley
- Tensioner pulley (when its main function is to apply tension)
- Jockey pulley
Related Mechanical Terms
- Drive pulley (n): The primary pulley that transmits power from a motor or engine to the belt.
- Driven pulley (n): The pulley that receives power from the belt to operate a component.
- Belt tensioner (n): An assembly that often incorporates an idler pulley to maintain proper belt tension automatically.
Noun
- a pulley on a shaft that presses against a guide belt to guide or tighten it