Some of the typical tape constructions involve one or more negative deflections. A negative redirection is a redirection that occurs on the top of the belt, as opposed to a transfer redirection. This reverse deflection is usually used to increase the wrap around the gears or to tension the belt.
From the point of view of engineering practice, it is advantageous if you choose the largest possible diameter for any change of direction. This reduces the bending of the wires and has a positive effect on the lifespan of the belt. If a negative deflection cannot be dispensed with, we recommend that the diameter is at least 10x the belt pitch.
Wire Belt Company standard sprockets are not designed to drive your belt in negative deflection. Since the belt pitch changes in the negative deflection, the gears can engage in the belt unless specially designed gears are used. If you have no other option than to deflect the belt negatively, our technical sales department will help you select special gears that are suitable for this process.