What is the purpose of a kiss idler in a belt drive system?

The kiss idler plays a significant role in a belt drive system by reducing vibration or belt whipping. This component is designed to lightly touch the belt's surface, providing enough contact to stabilize the belt as it moves through the system. By minimizing oscillations and other forms of vibration, the kiss idler ensures smoother operation and prevents potential damage to the belt and associated machinery. This stability is crucial for maintaining proper alignment and function, ultimately leading to improved reliability and performance of the drive system.