In a belt drive, what is centrifugal tension and how does it influence belt design and operation?

• A. Centrifugal tension is the inward force in the belt due to bending; it decreases tension.
• B. Centrifugal tension is the outward force in a moving belt due to its inertia; it increases effective belt tension, reduces contact pressure, and must be accounted for when selecting belt size and initial tension.
• C. Centrifugal tension is the frictional force at the pulley; it only affects light loads.
• D. Centrifugal tension is the magnetic force in metal belts; it's negligible.

Answer: (B)