Aluminum Pulleys - Durability??

[Grizwald11]

Does anybody have any experience with Aluminum Pulleys? I am trying to replace some existing steel pulleys with aluminum ones. They are used on a military vehicle where reduced weight is critical. They drive a large alternator and requires a 12 rib K-Section automotive style belt drive. I am leaning towards a 6061-T6 Aluminum with a hardcoat anodizing. My biggest fear is the wear rate compared to the steel pulleys. I wouldn't have a problem with having them replaced due to wear every 5 years but not once a year - if you know what I mean. Cost is not as big a factor as weight. Any comments or suggestions, good articlas or web pages???

 

[sacem1]

You will find that a stamped steel pulley will weight probably less than an equivalent Al pulley and outlast the Al one by several times factor, try to find a standard replacement part from a vehicle manufacturer that will do the job and forget the Al option, we have used Al pulleys for several years and they are a good solution if wear is not a factor. By weight I will go the steel route.

Cheers

SACEM1