Gates achieved a technological breakthrough on Micro V® multi-ribbed belts for accessory drive applications with the EPDM technology.

Gates has patented new elastomeric composites and developed new processing techniques for EPDM belts that provide higher load capacity under a wide temperature range and also meet the requirement for 250,000 + km. This belt technology together with numerous tensile cords (nylon, polyester, aramid etc) and modulus options enables Gates to tune ABDS systems for optimum performance and reduced NVH (Noise-Vibration-Harshness).

• Micro V® belts are designed to transfer power from the crankshaft to accessory drive components, such things as the alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump and water pump.
• Micro V® belts provide higher load capacity, longer life under wider ranges for temperature and other environmental conditions along with quieter operation are the key areas of development for accessory (ABDS) belt drive systems versus the traditional v-belt design.

Gates Micro V® Technological Advancement

• Combines advantages of V and flat belts
  • Flexibility of flat belts
  • Wedging of V belts 
• Superior on small diameter pulleys
• Excellent resistance to tension decay characteristics
• Excellent wear resistance
• Back-side drive capability
• Allows use of automatic tensioners
• Higher load carrying capabilities replace multiple V belts
• Cool running

Gates offers a range of belt solutions for ABDS systems.

• MultiTemp Micro V® Belts – Gates patented EPDM technology for a wide range of applications.
• QMT™ Belts –a new patented product technology in belts to reduce NVH across a broad range of conditions
• High-Load (EMD™) Belts – A solution for belt drives that require high-load transmission capability, such as starter-generator drives, and drives where compact drive packaging is required.
• Stretch Fit™ Belts – A solution for simple lock-center drive systems with low load transmission requirements
• Double-Sided Micro V® - A solution where accessories can be driven from both sides of the belt.

As our many worldwide OE partners have learned, Gates can enhance optimization efforts by getting involved early – right at the design stage. Gates’ approach is one of system engineering, to find the best solutions based on the highly interdependent nature of the individual components. Through the years, Gates has developed the engineering skills, including simulation programs and rig test methods, to engineer complete, integrated and highly functional systems.