Full definition
The linear velocity at the outer surface of a rotating pulley or drum, measured in meters per second (m/s). Calculated as V = π × D × N / 60,000, where D is the pitch diameter in mm and N is the rotational speed in RPM. This parameter is critical for belt selection because each belt type has a maximum allowable peripheral speed: classical V-belts 25-30 m/s, narrow V-belts 40 m/s, timing belts 60-80 m/s, flat belts up to 100 m/s, Poly-V belts 50-60 m/s. Exceeding maximum speed causes centrifugal force to lift the belt from the pulley groove, reducing effective tension and grip. Centrifugal tension Tc = m × v², where m is belt mass per unit length (kg/m). At high speeds, lighter belt constructions (aramid cord, thin profile) are preferred. Per ISO 1081 and manufacturer speed limits.