Abstract
This paper deals with a comparison of the classical belt friction formula, also called Euler-Eytelwein equation, with a detailed belt-cylinder interaction model. The belt friction is a typical pedagogical problem where the usage of equilibrium conditions is shown, but also have a practical usage, e.g. a heavy ship anchor pulling or a belt brake. The presented belt-cylinder interaction model is based on the absolute nodal coordinate formulation of beam finite elements with the consideration of nonlinear contact forces between a beam and a rigid cylinder.