Timing Pulley Bar Stock – Size Chart
Bar stock is used to machine custom timing pulleys for prototype builds, replacement pulleys, OEM equipment, automation systems, conveyors, packaging machines, and other synchronous belt drive applications. Instead of starting with a finished pulley, bar stock gives you a flexible blank that can be cut, bored, keyed, tapped, and machined to fit your exact application.
The most important detail when choosing bar stock is the tooth pitch. Pitch is the distance from one tooth to the next and must match the timing belt being used. A small pitch mismatch can cause tracking issues, belt wear, poor engagement, noise, or premature failure.
Simple rule: match the bar stock pitch to the belt pitch first. After that, you can machine the width, bore, keyway, set screws, and other features to fit your shaft and application.
Bar Stock Size and Pitch Chart
Use the chart below as a quick reference for common timing pulley bar stock profiles and pitches.
Why Bar Stock Pitch Matters
Timing belt drives depend on accurate tooth engagement. The pulley tooth profile and pitch need to match the belt so the belt can seat correctly and transmit motion without slipping. If the pitch is wrong, even slightly, the belt may climb, bind, wear unevenly, or fail early.
That is why choosing the correct bar stock profile is the first step before machining a custom pulley. Once the pitch and tooth style are confirmed, the bar stock can be machined for the correct bore, width, keyway, hub, set screw, flange, or other mounting requirements.
Common Bar Stock Applications
Timing pulley bar stock is commonly used for prototype pulleys, replacement pulleys, automation equipment, packaging machines, conveyors, printing equipment, food processing equipment, robotics, and OEM machine builds. It is especially useful when a standard finished pulley does not match the required bore, width, tooth count, or material.
Bar stock is also helpful when a pulley needs to be made quickly. With the tooth profile already formed, a machine shop can focus on cutting and machining the pulley to the exact dimensions needed for the equipment.
Need Help Choosing Timing Pulley Bar Stock?
At MDS of Michigan, we help customers source timing pulley bar stock for custom pulleys, repairs, prototypes, and OEM applications. If you are not sure which pitch or profile you need, send us the belt number, pulley dimensions, tooth count, or a photo of the existing part.
Need Timing Pulley Bar Stock?
MDS of Michigan can help you source inch and metric timing pulley bar stock for custom pulleys, prototypes, repairs, and OEM applications.