Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for cutting open-flanked V-belts, for example, for use as fan belts in automobiles. Individual V-belts are cut from a vulcanized roll formed from a plurality of layers of rubber and reinforcements. The roll is rotatably disposed on support devices, the support devices being so arranged that at least a portion of the rotation of the roll occurs in straight lines. The belts are cut in the straight line regions. Extremely uniform flank cuts are achieved thereby. The straight line is defined between two rollers, over which the vulcanized roll is forced and becomes tensioned. Cutting devices are moved into and out of the straight line portion of the rotational path of the roll in order to produce the flank cuts.