Modifying AT pulley for reduced backlash

[EddyCurrent]

Are you actually seeing backlash on your pulleys ? it's not something I've noticed or thought much about.

Edit: I've just seen the older post by Muzzer on this topic.

[David Child]

Are you actually seeing backlash on your pulleys ? it's not something I've noticed or thought much about.

Edit: I've just seen the older post by Muzzer on this topic.

To clarify, yes, I have substantial backlash on 5mm HTD pulleys. On researching, I found that the lowest-backlash toothed belt drive is AT profile and that the pulleys are available in three quality standards: standard, reduced backlash, and zero backlash.

The problem is I can't find a stockist of the sizes I want in zero backlash, and the ones that are available are an eye-watering price.

Hence my inquiry re skimming standard AT pulleys. It appeared from the manufacturer's schematic that the most significant difference between the 3 qualities is that the belt tooth profile progressively "fills" the pulley tooth profile as the backlash reduces. ergo, skim the pulley to make less volume available in the pulley tooth profile forcing the belt tooth to fill the available area.

I assume there will be downsides, probably reduced belt service life, but at my usage rate, that's a compromise I'm happy to make.

Cheers