Although there are several methods to blend belt materials to create unique hybrids to meet specific industrial demands, the majority of today's conveyor belts are made up of five basic materials.
A thermoplastic polymer is used to make thermoplastic conveyor belts. Thermoplastic conveyor belts are useful for a variety of sectors, including food handling, textile production, and heavy-duty metal transfers, due to their flexibility and hygiene-conscious design. Thermoplastic belts are also rather light. The National Industrial Belting Association defines a lightweight conveyor belt as having a working tension of less than 160 pounds per inch of width.
Polyurethane (PU) belts and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) belts are the two most prevalent forms of thermoplastic conveyor belts.
PU conveyor belts: Because they are made of FDA-approved materials, PU conveyor belts are perfect for food manufacturing. They can tolerate exceptionally high and low temperatures without melting or warping. PU conveyor belts are extremely simple to maintain.
PVC conveyor belts are normally flame-resistant and can endure temperatures comparable to those of PU conveyor belts. PVC belts can withstand chemical interactions. They are well known for their durability. For optimal grip, PVC belts are frequently corrugated.
Metal conveyor belts are sturdy and long-lasting, making them excellent for practically any business, particularly those dealing with raw materials, such as food service or unpackaged commodities. These belts are flat and easy to work on, in addition to being durable. They are also stiff, which means that the belt will not change shape over time. However, because they are not as easy to form or bend, the viable conveyor pathways are restricted.
Metal conveyor belts are often constructed of aluminum, curved stainless or carbon steel, or both.
You've undoubtedly seen rubber conveyor belts in operation if you've spent a lot of time in an airport. They're common in places like these as well as in mining. The elasticity of rubber conveyor belt material, as well as its smooth and seamless design, are highly regarded. They are also one of the most cost-effective conveyor belt choices.
However, they have a far poorer tolerance to heat and wear and tear than other conveyor belt materials. They are also more difficult to keep clean.
Fabric Conveyor Belts Fabric conveyor belts are typically medium-impact and low-cost. They are frequently used for transporting gravel, sand, and other bulk commodities. In most grocery shops, fabric-based conveyor belts are used in the check-out lines.
Nylon: Nylon is extremely robust, heat-resistant, and impact-resistant. In the case of a hybrid conveyor belt, it also adheres effectively to rubber. It also resists mildew better than other textiles.
Polyester: Another synthetic material used for conveyor belts is polyester. It has many of the same advantages as nylon, but it is often less costly and operates more quietly.
Kevlar: Kevlar is the heavy-duty transport superstar. It is designed to withstand fire and significant impact. It is more substantial and constructed of thicker fibers than most other cloth belts. According to some reports, kevlar belts are also quicker and last longer than their equivalents.
Cotton and wool are examples of natural materials that are fashioned to be breathable.
Because of its durability and accessibility, leather was used in many early conveyor belt types. Leather is also resistant to stress and has an excellent grip.
Nowadays, leather is frequently employed as one component of a hybrid or customized conveyor belt.
