Gates introduces new platform of micro-V belts

Gates, a leading global provider of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions, announced the launch EXTEND Micro-V, a new platform of belts for engine accessory drive systems.

The next generation platform leverages Gates' materials science and process engineering capabilities to deliver improved product performance tailored for specific market segments. The combination of newly developed material compounds and product design reduces belt weight by an average of 15%, allows for approximately 35% decreased force-to-bend, and reduces energy consumption, CO2 emissions and heat generation.

Gates EXTEND Micro-V belts are validated to the latest industry standards, including SAE, DIN & JASO specifications for accessory drive belts, and undergo extensive field trials to confirm performance in real-world conditions. The advanced processes developed to make this product portfolio also reduce manufacturing waste and enable the use of elastomers, which are more environmentally-friendly than the chlorinated compounds frequently used in belt constructions.

The new EXTEND MICRO-V is specifically designed to meet the performance requirements of customers in emerging markets where the population of vehicles that are in, or are entering into, the traditional maintenance cycle are growing rapidly. The portfolio launched June 2019 and will be available in a variety of sizes to cover a wide range of vehicles in operation within these markets.