Begleitrolle

Begleitrolle is a German term used primarily in technical contexts to denote a roller that accompanies another moving component rather than serving as the primary driver. The word combines Begleit- (accompaniment, escort) and Rolle (roller or wheel). In machinery, a Begleitrolle functions as an idler or tension roller: it guides, aligns, or tensions a belt, rope, chain, or filament, while itself not providing motive power.

Common applications include belt drives and conveyor systems, where Begleitrollen help maintain the correct belt path and prevent derailing, as well as in printing presses and textile machinery, where they guide threads or webs. The role is distinguished from a Führungsrolle (guide roller, primarily directing the path) and from a Spannrolle (tension roller, deliberately applying tension). In some designs, the Begleitrolle may also serve to compensate for thermal expansion, wear, or sag in long runs.

In non-technical usage, Begleitrolle can denote a supporting or accompanying function in a performance or production; however, in most contexts the term for an actor in a secondary part is Nebenrolle, and Begleitrolle is rarely used in modern theatre discourse.

Related terms include Idler, Führungsrolle, and Spannrolle. The concept is widely found in patents and mechanical drawings describing roller assemblies.