Conveyor belt systems play a vital role in streamlining operations across a wide range of industries, from food processing to pharmaceuticals and automotive manufacturing. Given the diversity of applications and industries, there are numerous conveyor belt types, each designed to cater to specific requirements and production goals. As a facility manager or engineer, understanding the different conveyor belt types and their unique features can help you make informed decisions when selecting a conveyor belt system that best suits your needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of various conveyor belt types, exploring their unique features, construction materials, and applications across different industries. From steel belts ideal for high-temperature operations to modular belts that offer unparalleled versatility, we&#;ll provide you with the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your facility. Additionally, by partnering with conveyor belt experts like Change Parts Pty Ltd, you can ensure expert consultation, guidance, and tailor-made solutions designed to optimise efficiency and productivity for your specific operation.
The material composition of a conveyor belt is a crucial factor to consider, as it determines the system&#;s durability, versatility, and ability to withstand a range of environmental conditions:
Rubber conveyor belts are widely used across numerous industries and are known for their flexibility, durability, and adaptability. They come in a variety of formulations, including food-grade rubber for food processing applications and oil-resistant rubber for industries subject to grease and oil exposure.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) conveyor belts offer a less flexible but more durable alternative to rubber. These belts are resistant to water, chemicals, and wear, and they have a firmer surface, making them suitable for various applications, including assembly lines and packaging plants.
Fabric belts, typically constructed from polyester or nylon, are lightweight and highly versatile. These belts are well-suited for a wide range of applications, from agricultural to industrial. However, they may not be the best option for high-temperature or abrasive environments.
Metal belts, such as steel and wire mesh, are ideal for high-temperature, heavy-duty applications, as they can withstand extreme heat and heavy loads. They also offer excellent hygienic properties, making them ideal for food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.
Beyond material composition, conveyor belt systems come in various styles, each designed to cater to specific industry needs and requirements:
Flat belt conveyors are the most widely used conveyor type, typically found in assembly lines, packaging systems, and material handling applications. The flat belt offers a smooth surface suitable for a range of materials and products and can be customised with cleats, v-guides, or sidewalls to accommodate specific needs.
Modular plastic conveyor belts consist of interlocking plastic modules, offering unparalleled versatility and adaptability. These belts are well-suited for a wide range of industries, including food processing, pharmaceutical, and automotive manufacturing. They are easy to clean, maintain, and reconfigure as needed.
Featuring a robust design, steel hinge belt conveyors are ideal for handling heavy and abrasive materials, such as scrap metal, waste, or large components. These belts are known for their durability and strength, ensuring efficient operations in challenging environments.
Designed with raised edges that form a trough, troughed belt conveyors are commonly used for transporting loose bulk materials, such as mining aggregate, grain, and wood chips. The troughed edges help prevent spillage and allow for conveying materials at various angles.
The selection of a conveyor belt system must be tailored to the requirements of the specific industry it will serve:
For food processing applications, conveyor belt systems must comply with stringent hygiene and cleaning standards. This industry may require stainless steel or wire mesh belts for high-temperature baking or FDA-approved rubber or modular belts for handling raw or perishable products.
Similar to the food industry, pharmaceutical manufacturing requires conveyor belt systems that meet strict sanitation and contamination prevention standards. Stainless steel or wire mesh belts are a popular choice for their easy-cleaning properties and compatibility with cleanroom environments.
In the automotive industry, conveyor belt systems need to accommodate heavy components and be as efficient as possible to meet fast-paced production demands. Robust steel hinge belt systems and modular plastic belts offer an ideal solution in such cases.
Conveyors in mining and heavy-duty applications must be capable of handling abrasive materials, significant loads, and harsh environmental conditions. Steel hinge belt, wire mesh, and troughed belt conveyors are often well-suited for these demanding tasks.
Understanding the various conveyor belt types and their unique properties is essential for making informed decisions when choosing a conveyor belt system for your facility. Be sure to consider factors like material composition, conveyor style, and industry-specific requirements while making a selection.
By partnering with the experts at Change Parts Pty Ltd, you can receive personalised guidance and access to a wide range of conveyor belt solutions tailored to meet your facility&#;s unique needs. Together, we can help you unlock the full potential of your operation and achieve optimal efficiency and productivity.
Choose the perfect conveyor belt system for your facility&#;s needs with the help of Change Parts Pty Ltd. Consult with our knowledgeable team today to explore a comprehensive range of conveyor belt types and solutions tailored to serve various industries and applications.
Choosing Your Conveyor Belt
Ashland Conveyor supplies several options for conveyor belts, belt lacing, and belt lacing tools. This guide will outline the products we can offer and their benefits. While our powered conveyors come equipped with a standard, recommended belt, other belt options can be requested and quoted through a sales rep. You can contact a sales rep through our contact page.
Conveyor belts can come with or without factory-installed lacing, or lacing and installation tools can be purchased separately. To purchase your conveyor belt with factory installed lacing, you will need to add this on as an additional product. See the bottom of this page for more details!
Conveyor Belts
Belt General Purpose (BGP)
Our general purpose belt has a black, smooth, PVC cover. The single-ply belt is strong, cut resistant, and stretches less than 2%. This belt may be used for general conveying of loose or packaged products for applications such as Metal Stampings, Lumber, Warehouse/Distribution, Live Roller Conveyors, Package Handling, and Case Sealers. The minimum pulley diameter for this belt is 2".
Compound
Plies
Hardness (Durometer)
Overall Gauge
Temp Range °F
Recommended Lacing
Belt Rough Top (BRT)
Our rough top belt has a SBR compound cover. The black, 2-ply construction is ideal in minimizing product movement or for use with incline conveyors. This belt may be used for general conveying of loose or packaged products for applications such as Incline Conveyor, Metal Stampings, Package Handling, Lumber, and Warehouse/Distribution. The minimum pulley diameter for this belt is 2".
Compound
Plies
Hardness (Durometer)
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Bluemaxim.
Overall Gauge
Temp Range °F
Recommended Lacing
Belt Food Grade (BFG)
Our FDA/USDA approved food grade rubber belt has a White, Buna-N compound cover. The high-tensile and non-absorbing polyester fabric eliminates dry-rot, mildew, and deterioration. This is a low stretch belt that offers superior tracking under wet conditions and has excellent resistance to animal fat, oils, acid, juices, greases. This belt is widely used in Meat and Poultry Plants, Bakeries, Canneries, Candy and Confectionary Plants, Pharmaceuticals, Fish Processing, and most other food applications. The minimum pulley diameter for this belt is 4".
Compound
Plies
Hardness (Durometer)
Overall Gauge
Temp Range °F
Recommended Lacing
Belt Checkout Counter (BCOC)
Our Counter Top Belt is well suited grocery check-out counters, newspaper handling, electronic components, and tape cartridges. This belt has limited resistance to oil and grease. It also has good resistance to most acids and solvents, except in high concentrations. The Counter Top Belt lays flat with no edge curl.
Compound
Plies
Hardness (Durometer)
Overall Gauge
Temp Range °F
Recommended Lacing
Belt Blue Food Grade (BBF)
Our Blue Food Grade belt is FDA/USDA approved and may be used for Meat and Poultry Plants, Bakeries, Canneries, Candy and Confectionary Plants, Pharmaceuticals, Fish Processing, and most other food applications. This belt lays very flat, has excellent grease and oil resistance, excellent product release, and easy to clean.
Compound
Plies
Hardness (Durometer)
Overall Gauge
Temp Range °F
Recommended Lacing
Polyurethane
2 60 0.059"-4-212
CLPRSTST 2-12
Belt Lacing
Lacing allows the belt ends to be connected and disconnected as opposed to an &#;endless&#; belt which is permanently spliced. Four types of lacing are available; Clipper (low profile, good for package handling), Alligator (low profile, does not require special installation tools), Ready Set (well suited for conveying heavy or abrasive product), and Bolt Hinged (extreme heavy duty for thick belts).Take a look at our Lacing collection page to learn more about these options!
Factory Installed Lacing
Our belts have the ability to come with preinstalled lacing directly from our supplier. To choose this option, you will need to find which belt will work best for your application and the correct length, then add on the factory installed installation as another item to the cart before checkout. Each belt will have the recommended lacing option as a related item. Both the belt and the factory installed lacing must be added to your cart in order for the belt to come pre-laced. If you have any further questions on this, please submit an inquiry through our contact page!
Are you interested in learning more about Polyester Conveyor Belt? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!