What Does M, V & BFX Mean?

How To Identify the 3 Timing Belt Construction Types

BRECOflex CO., L.L.C. offers three types of timing belt construction, each for a different kind of application. Knowing what these three types are and how to identify them is the first step in specifying a belt for a new design or for placing a reorder on a replacement belt

Timing Belt Construction Types

Each type is specified by a letter code.

  1. Open-Ended “M” for linear drive applications
  2. Spliced and Welded “V” for conveying applications
  3. Truly Endless “BFX” for power transmission applications

Check out our Timing Belt Products Page.

How to Identify a BRECOflex Open-Ended M Timing Belt

Open-ended timing belts have a high spring rate and excellent tooth shear strength. If you are looking for a linear drive with stiffness and high repeatability, we recommend steel tension members over aramid fiber. The stiffest and strongest “M” belt would be the move-series AT10 or AT15.

Code M timing belts are available in 50m rolls or cut to length as per specification.

How to Identify a BRECOflex Spliced and Welded V Timing Belt

Spliced and welded timing belts are used in many general purpose applications. They are the preferred construction type for conveying, as well as for welded profiles and backings. We are able to machine these belts and they are available in most tooth configurations.

  • A code “V” belt starts with a length of open roll stock that has finger splices cut into it and is then heat welded together
  • It has the same sealed edges and smooth back as open ended belts
  • Because it is welded, it had 50% of the strength of a truly endless belt
  • You can purchase “V” belts in one tooth increments from a minimum length. see our B212 Catalog for more details.
  • See pulleys and accessories for Code “V” belts

How to Identify a BRECOflex Truly Endless Timing Belt

Truly endless code BFX polyurethane timing belts are extruded without a weld. This gives you the strongest belt construction type making it ideal for power transmission applications. They have steel tension members as a standard and are available in multiple material versions. The most popular tooth configuration is AT  for more tooth shear strength. Double-sided BFX timing belts are also available for drive systems that change shaft direction. Custom lengths are available.

  • The edges are not sealed. Upon very close inspection you will find the pin-hole location of the tension member where it exited the belt during the extrusion process.
  • BFX belts will have a ground belt back. NOTE: Due to the way we do our extrusion process, a BFX belt less than 720mm will be made of clear polyurethane and have a smooth belt back. A BFX belt over 720mm will be made of white polyurethane and have a ground belt back.

See the recommended power transmission drive components that go with BFX timing belts

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