Conveyor fastener belts, commonly known as conveyor belts, are essential components used in various industries for transporting materials and goods. These belts are made from a combination of different materials carefully selected based on their desired properties and the specific requirements of the application.

In this comprehensive explanation, we will explore the materials commonly used in conveyor fastener belts, their properties, and their applications.

  1. Rubber: Rubber is one of the primary materials used in conveyor belts due to its excellent elasticity, durability, and resistance to wear and tear. The rubber used in conveyor belts is typically a synthetic rubber compound, such as neoprene, nitrile, or styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). These rubbers offer high tensile strength, good abrasion resistance, and flexibility, making them suitable for conveying materials in various industries, including mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.

  2. Fabric: The fabric component of conveyor belts provides reinforcement and strength. Different types of fabrics, such as cotton, polyester, nylon, and aramid fibers, are used based on their specific properties. Cotton fabric offers good resistance to heat and abrasion but is less commonly used due to its lower tensile strength.

  3. Polyester and nylon fabrics are popular choices as they provide high strength, low stretch, and excellent resistance to moisture and chemicals. Aramid fibers, such as Kevlar, offer exceptional strength and heat resistance, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.

  4. Steel is often used as a reinforcing material in conveyor belts, particularly in heavy-duty applications that involve carrying heavy loads or operating in harsh environments. Steel cords are incorporated into the belt to enhance its tensile strength and resistance to impact and tearing. These cords are typically made of high-carbon steel wires coated with zinc for corrosion protection. Steel-reinforced belts are commonly used in industries such as mining, construction, and steel manufacturing.
  5. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC is a versatile material widely used in conveyor belts due to its affordability, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and oils. PVC belts are composed of multiple layers, including a top cover, a bottom cover, and a polyester or nylon reinforcement layer. The PVC covers provide protection against abrasion, while the fabric reinforcement enhances the belt's strength. PVC belts are commonly employed in industries such as food processing, packaging, and logistics.

  6. Polyurethane (PU): Polyurethane is a synthetic material known for its exceptional durability, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion, oils, and chemicals. PU conveyor belts offer high strength, low elongation, and excellent performance in applications that require high-speed conveying or operate in demanding environments. They are commonly used in industries such as automotive manufacturing, electronics, and general material handling.

  7. Silicone: Silicone-based conveyor belts are designed for specialized applications that require high-temperature resistance. Silicone offers excellent heat resistance, allowing these belts to withstand extreme temperatures without degradation. They are commonly used in industries such as baking, food processing, and automotive manufacturing, where elevated temperatures are encountered.

It's important to note that the composition and construction of conveyor belts can vary based on specific requirements. Belt manufacturers often customize the belt's materials and design to suit particular applications, taking into consideration factors like load capacity, operating conditions, temperature range, and the nature of the conveyed materials.

In conclusion, conveyor fastener belts are made from a combination of materials such as rubber, fabric, steel, PVC, polyurethane, and silicone. These materials provide the necessary properties like strength, flexibility, abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, and heat resistance to meet the diverse needs of different industries and applications.

The choice of materials depends on the specific requirements of the application, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of conveyor belts.