Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same which includes a plate spring to press a low-friction sheet

摘要

In a fixing device, a fixed member is provided inside a loop formed by a belt member, and is pressed against a rotary member via the belt member to form a nip portion between the rotary member and the belt member through which a recording medium bearing a toner image passes. In the fixed member, a low-friction sheet member is wrapped around a body in a sliding direction of the belt member in which the belt member slides over the fixed member in such a manner that the low-friction sheet member covers a surface of the body opposing the nip portion. At least one plate spring presses the low-friction sheet member against the body to apply a predetermined tension to the low-friction sheet member.