Belt Types and Belt Selection for Belt Conveyors [Complete Guide].

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Belt selection for conveyor belts is an important factor that determines productivity and stable operation of a factory.　　However, there are a wide variety of belt types, depending on material and construction, and many machine designers are at a loss as to which belt to choose. (I still have trouble with this myself.)

Selecting a belt that is not suited to the material to be conveyed or the environment in which it will be used can lead to problems such as snaking and premature wear, which can result in the worst-case scenario of a production line stoppage.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive explanation of the basic knowledge of belts that machine designers should know, the merits and demerits of each type, and practical selection points to avoid mistakes and regrets in belt selection for conveyor belts, and we hope it will help you in your selection process.

Basic knowledge of belt types and belt selection for correct conveyor belts

First, you want to understand the basics of conveyor belts

Belt conveyors are basic equipment for continuously conveying products and parts at various sites, such as factories and distribution warehouses.　Its structure consists mainly of a "frame" that supports the entire conveyor, "pulleys (rollers)" that rotate the belt, and a "belt" that directly loads the product to be conveyed.Composed of three elementsThe belt is driven by the power of the motor.　It is a simple mechanism in which the drive pulley is rotated by the power of the motor, and the friction causes the belt to move and carry the object.

However, the "belt" plays an extremely large role in this simple mechanism,It is no exaggeration to say that its selection determines the overall performance of the conveyor.　If the optimal belt is not selected to match the weight, shape, temperature, oil content, and environment (humidity, cleanliness, etc.) of the material to be conveyed, problems such as belt snaking, premature wear, and falling of the conveyed material are likely to occur.

Therefore, having the correct knowledge of belt materials and construction is the first step in designing a stable and efficient production line.

Overall view of the wide variety of belt types

Although there are so many different types of conveyor belts, it is easier to understand them when categorized from three main perspectives.　There are three types of materials: surface material, body material, and structure type.

The surface material is the outermost part of the belt that is in direct contact with the material to be conveyed.　This part determines the basic chemical and physical properties of the belt, such as oil resistance, heat resistance, and non-adhesiveness, and is therefore extremely important in the selection process.

The "core material" is the skeleton-like part inside the belt that supports the strength and tension of the belt. The belt's resistance to stretching and breaking depends largely on the performance of this core material.

The "construction type" refers to the overall shape and structure of the belt. There are not only common flat single-piece belts, but also belts with special structures such as a combination of blocks or belts with teeth, depending on the application.

Proper understanding of these three elements,Consideration of each combination is the key to optimal belt selection.　The first two are the following.

List of conveyor belt materials to compare at a glance

There is a wide range of materials used in conveyor belts.　As a first step in the selection process, here is a list of the types of materials that exist.　This table is intended to give a general classification of materials and typical types.　Detailed characteristics of each material will be discussed in more detail in subsequent sections.

Characteristics of each surface material that determines the conveying surface

The surface material of the belt is one of the most important determinants of belt performance because it is in direct contact with the material to be conveyed.　This material greatly affects the type of environment in which the belt can be used and the type of product being conveyed.　For example, "oil resistance" is required for a line conveying food products containing a lot of oil, and "heat resistance" is required for a process conveying hot products while cooling them.　In addition, when handling highly sticky bread dough, "non-adhesiveness (mold-releasing property)" is essential to prevent products from sticking to the belt.

In this section, we will discuss the "Surface Material" which is particularly important in the selection of the surface material.coefficient of frictionThis section explains the concept of material selection from two perspectives: "weight of the material to be transported" and "weight of the material to be transported.

Understanding the coefficient of friction and its application to selection

The coefficient of friction is an indicator of the "slipperiness" or "grip strength" of a belt surface.

• Cases where a high coefficient of friction (high grip) is required
  In "inclined conveying," where products are conveyed up or down an incline, a belt with high gripping force is required.　Otherwise, the product will slide down on the belt.　Also,Belts with high gripping force are chosen to prevent products from shifting due to inertia, even in lines with rapid acceleration or deceleration.　In general, rubber-based belts and belts with uneven surfaces, called rough tops, have a higher coefficient of friction.

• Cases where a low coefficient of friction (slipperiness) is required
  On the other hand, there are situations where a slippery belt is intentionally chosen.　A typical example is the "accumulation conveyor.　This is used to temporarily stop and accumulate (dwell) products at the end of the conveyor, requiring only the belt to continue sliding under the products.　If the gripping force is too strong, the products could push against each other, damaging each other or overloading the motor.Fluoropolymers (PTFE) and some polyolefins (TPO) have a low coefficient of friction and are suitable for sliding applications.

Concept of material selection according to the weight of the material to be transported

The weight of the material to be conveyed is an important factor that affects not only the material of the belt, but also the overall structure of the conveyor.

• Light load transport (up to several kilograms)
  Resin-based belts (polyurethane or PVC) are most commonly used for carrying relatively lightweight items such as individually packaged food, electronic components, and pharmaceuticals.　Because these belts are thin and lightweight, the conveyor frame can also be a simple aluminum structure (stringer frame), reducing overall equipment costs.

• Medium-load transport (several tens of kilograms)
  Thick resin belts or belts with increased strength by increasing the number of core layers (number of plies) are used for transporting items with a certain degree of weight, such as cardboard boxes and automobile parts.　Some lightweight rubber belts may also be used in this area.

• Heavy load transport (several hundred kilograms or more)
  Rubber belts are almost the only option for transporting very heavy materials such as earth, sand, ores, and castings.　For these applications, in addition to the thickness and strength of the belt itself, a tough core (nylon canvas or steel cord) that can withstand impact is essential. Conveyor frames also employ a sturdy "truss frame" construction, which is a triangular combination of steel materials.

Thus, surface materials should be selected according to physical requirements such as coefficient of friction and weight of the material to be conveyed.Roller conveyor for transporting even heavier items　Please also consider the following.

Resin-based belts for food and logistics

Resin belts are mainly made of polyurethane (PU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are lightweight, easy to process, and hygienic, so they are widely used especially in the food and logistics industries.　The company has been

Main resin-based belt types and features

• Polyurethane (PU): Excellent abrasion resistance and oil resistance, and a wide variety of grades conforming to the Food Sanitation Law are available.　Compared to rubber, it produces less abrasion powder, making it suitable for clean environments. On the other hand, costs tend to be higher than PVC.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)PU : It has excellent economic efficiency and is used as a standard material in a wide range of applications, such as general logistics and packaging lines.　However, its abrasion resistance and oil resistance are inferior to PU, making it unsuitable for use under harsh conditions.
• Silicon (SI): Featuring excellent non-adhesiveness (mold release) and heat resistance, it is ideal for transporting foods that tend to stick together, such as confectionery and bread dough.　However, its physical strength is lower than other resins.
• Fluoroplastic (PTFE/Teflon): Highest level of non-adhesiveness, heat resistance (up to 260°C) and chemical resistance. Used in high-temperature firing processes and in lines that handle highly corrosive chemicals, it is very expensive.

Points to keep in mind when selecting a resin-based belt

When selecting a resin-based belt, it is essential to first check whether it complies with domestic and international regulations such as the Food Sanitation Law, FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), and EU regulations.　Especially for applications where food products are in direct contact with the product, if a certificate of conformity is required　There are also

Also, even with the same polyurethane, thermoplastic (TPU), which is easily welded by heat, and thermosetting (PUR), which has high hardness, have completely different processing methods and must be considered at the design stage.　If hot water or steam is used in the cleaning process, a belt of a moisture-resistant type that is resistant to hydrolysis must be selected, otherwise premature deterioration may occur.

Rubber-based belts for sites where durability is required

Rubber-based belts are thicker and sturdier than plastic belts, and are mainly used outdoors and at heavy industrial sites. They are ideal for use in harsh environments where high durability, abrasion resistance, and impact resistance are required, such as transporting bulk materials such as gravel and ore, and heavy objects.

Types of rubber for different applications

• General and abrasion resistant rubber: This is the most versatile type, consisting mainly of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and other materials.　Often seen in conveyors that transport earth, sand, and coal at mining and construction sites.
• oil-resistant rubber: Nitrile rubber (NBR) is the main component of this belt, which prevents swelling and deterioration of the belt due to oil.　It is used for conveying oil-contaminated metal parts and in recycling plants that handle oil-containing waste.
• heat-resistant rubber: Ethylene-Propylene Rubber (EPDM) and other materials are used to transport high-temperature materials above 100°C. They are used in foundries and cement plants to transport high-temperature products and raw materials.
• Flame retardant rubber: Self-extinguishing properties that prevent the spread of fire; grades are defined by JIS K 6324 and other standards, and use is legally required in places where fire is strictly prohibited, such as coal mine shafts and tunnels.

Points to keep in mind when selecting a rubber belt

When selecting a rubber belt, it is important to first accurately understand the characteristics of the material to be conveyed.　For example,If the temperature of the material to be conveyed exceeds 60°C, a heat-resistant belt must be selected.The temperature of the conveying material does not always match the belt surface temperature.　However, since the temperature of the material to be conveyed and the belt surface temperature do not necessarily coincide, confirmation with a specialized manufacturer is recommended.

Also, rubber belts are heavier than plastic belts and may require more power to drive them.Because of its rubber-specific odor, it is often unsuitable for food factories, clean rooms, and other environments where hygiene and odor are not desired.　It is.

Belt types and optimum belt selection for conveyor belts learned from details

Metallic belts for use in high temperature and clean environments

Metallic belts are mainly made of stainless steel or steel and demonstrate their value in special environments where other materials cannot be usedThe product is particularly suitable for use in environments requiring extremely high cleanliness and in high temperature environments.　It is especially suitable for use in environments that require extremely high cleanliness and high temperatures.

Advantages of metallic belts

The greatest advantage is its cleanliness.　The metal belt itself generates almost no abrasion dust or gas (outgas), making it suitable for use in clean rooms where fine dust is not desired, such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment and electronic component conveyance.　As a proven track record, there are examples of use in Class 100 clean rooms.

Also, because it does not carry static electricity like plastic belts, it can safely transport electronic components that are vulnerable to electrostatic discharge (ESD).　The belt also has excellent heat resistance and can be used continuously at temperatures as high as 300°C, depending on the material.　Furthermore, because they can withstand sterilization and cleaning with hot water and various chemicals, they are also used in the food and medical fields, where hygiene control is strictly required.

Disadvantages and cautions for metal-based belts

On the other hand, metallic belts also have disadvantages.　First, they are extremely expensive compared to plastic or rubber belts.　They are also inflexible and susceptible to sudden bending, which may limit design flexibility.　Since they do not have the ability to absorb shock like rubber, the risk of rupture under strong impact must also be considered.

When selecting a material, it is important to check the corrosion resistance of each material to the temperature and chemicals to be used.　In addition, metal belts have almost no elongation, enabling accurate positioning and conveyance, but on the other hand, high installation accuracy is required for conveyor frames and pulleys.

Applications for other materials such as felt

In addition to the major materials such as resin, rubber, and metal, there are materials specialized for specific applications.　Typical examples are felt and cotton.　Although these materials are less versatile, they have unique properties not found in other materials.

Felt belts are characterized by their soft, cushioned surface.　This makes them ideal for glass products, parts after painting, easily scratched electronic substrates, and other items that must not be damaged by the material being conveyed.　They are also sometimes used to absorb excess batter in bread dough handling processes.

Cotton belts are used in situations where water absorbency and air permeability are required.　For example, they are used in processes where products are conveyed while removing water from them after washing, and in processes where products are dried while ensuring air permeability.

These materials are rarely used in general logistics or heavy industry, but play an important role in certain processes to maintain product quality.　However, their durability and abrasion resistance are lower than those of resin and rubber, so their use should be considered in light of belt life and frequency of replacement.

Knowledge of different core and body materials that affect belt life

Belt performance is not only determined by the surface material.　The material of the "core (carcass)," which supports strength as the belt's internal framework, also has a significant impact on belt life and running stability.　The carcass is mainly made of woven cloth (canvas) made of chemical fibers such as polyester and nylon.

Polyester (EP) vs. Nylon (NN)

The most commonly used core materials in rubber and plastic belts are polyester (EP) and nylon (NN). Understanding the difference between these two is very important for designers　It is.

• Polyester (EP): Its greatest feature is its low elongation and excellent dimensional stability.　It also has the advantage of being hydrophobic, absorbing very little water, making it difficult for the belt length to change even in humid environments.　　Due to these characteristics,The belt is less prone to meandering, making it suitable for long-distance conveyors and lines that require frequent cleaning.　However, it tends to be relatively weak against impact and tearing compared to nylon.

• Nylon (NN): It is characterized by its very high elasticity, shock-absorbing capacity and tear resistance.Demonstrates performance in high-impact areas where large, lumpy objects are dropped.　The belt is made of a material that is hydrophilic and can absorb moisture easily.　However, its hydrophilic nature, which easily absorbs moisture, has the disadvantage that the belt tends to stretch over time in high-humidity environments, causing it to meander.

Key Points for Body and Mind Selection

Belt snaking is often caused by uneven belt elongationTherefore, the　Therefore,For lines that require stable running, polyester (EP) cores with excellent dimensional stability are the basic choice.　A sensible selection approach is to consider adopting a nylon (NN) core only when impact is the primary concern.

Features by structure type with different functions by shape

Belt conveyor belts are not only flat in shape.　There are belts with various structures, shapes, and secondary processing to improve the purpose and efficiency of conveyance.

Typical belt construction type

• flat beltBelt: The most common type of belt. It is widely used for horizontal conveying and gently inclined conveying.
• modular belt: A belt made of small plastic blocks connected together like bricks. Because it is driven directly by sprockets (gears), it does not meander and is easy to clean and partially replace, so it is widely used especially in the food industry. Straight lines and curves can also be combined in a single belt.
• timing belt: The belt has teeth on the inside that mesh with the teeth on the pulleys to provide precise synchronized conveyance without slippage. This is indispensable for automatic assembly lines, etc., where accurate positioning of products and conveyance at regular intervals are required.

Surface geometry and secondary processing to enhance functionality

• rough topBelt surface is coated with an uneven pattern, such as a mesh pattern, to increase friction and prevent slippage during inclined conveyance. It also provides a cushioning effect for fragile materials. Generally, it can handle inclines of 20 to 30 degrees.
• Jetties and corrugated jetties: A physical wall is attached to the belt surface to prevent the material being conveyed from sliding down, even on steep inclines. It also enables near-vertical conveyance.
• V Guide: A V-shaped guide is welded to the back of the belt and meshes with a groove on the conveyor frame side to physically restrain meandering. However, this is only a symptomatic treatment, and the possibility of putting extra load on the belt must be considered.
• drilling: Used to transport lightweight materials such as paper and film by sucking air in from below through holes in the belt (vacuum transport).

By appropriately combining these structures and processes, it is possible to add value to the conveying process beyond simply carrying objects.

Belt type and belt selection essentials for optimal conveyor belts

Based on what has been explained so far, the following is a summary of the most suitable belt types and key points for belt selection for optimal conveyor belts.

• Belt selection begins with the characteristics of the material to be conveyed (weight, shape, temperature, oil content, adhesiveness)
• Don't forget to check the operating environment (humidity, temperature, cleanliness, and cleaning)
• Consider three main surface materials: resin-based, rubber-based, and metal-based.
• Resin-based polyurethane (PU) has excellent abrasion and oil resistance, and is mainstream in food applications
• Resin-based polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is economical and a standard choice for general logistics
• Rubber-based products have high durability and impact resistance and are used in heavy transport of earth, sand, and ore
• Metallic systems are used in semiconductors and high-temperature processes that require cleanliness and heat resistance.
• The core, the framework of the belt, determines its strength and dimensional stability
• If stable driving is important, polyester (EP) core with low elongation is the first choice.
• For strong impacts, consider a nylon (NN) core with excellent shock absorption properties
• Modular belts that are structurally non-snaking are effective when belt snaking is a problem
• Timing belts are essential when accurate positioning and synchronized conveying are required
• For inclined conveying, select rough tops or cleated belts depending on the angle.
• For applications where food comes in direct contact with the product, check for compliance with food sanitation laws and ear seal processing.
• Always observe the minimum pulley diameter recommended by the belt manufacturer to prevent problems.

Reference Site Introduction

Finally, five companies and authoritative websites that provide more specialized information on the "belt types and belt selection for conveyor belts" discussed in the article are listed below, along with brief descriptions.

1. Nitta Corporation
   • URL:. https://www.nitta.co.jp/product/belt-conv/belt/
   • Description: A leading belt manufacturer known for its New Light Grip (NLG) series of resin belts. The site provides a wealth of detailed product information and technical data for a wide range of applications, from food conveying to general conveying, and is especially helpful in selecting resin belts.
2. Mitsuboshi Belting Co.
   • URL:. https://www.mitsuboshi.com/product/conveyor/
   • Description: Known for its "Tailorbelt®" brand, the company offers plastic conveyor belts for a wide range of applications from logistics to the food industry. In recent years, the company has also focused on the development of environmentally friendly belts made from biomass materials, which can be useful when selecting belts with sustainability in mind.
3. Bando Chemical Co.
   • URL:. https://products.bandogrp.com/product/
   • Description: A comprehensive belt manufacturer famous for its "Sunline Belt" series. The product lineup is extremely broad, ranging from plastic belts to rubber belts and timing belts, and the features and applications of each product are explained in detail. Selection criteria for specific performance requirements, such as heat resistance and oil resistance, are clearly defined.
4. The Yokohama Rubber Company, Limited
   • URL:. https://www.y-yokohama.com/product/mb/industrial/conveyorbelt_01/
   • Description: Although best known for its tires, the company is also a highly skilled manufacturer of rubber conveyor belts for heavy industry. In particular, the company has extensive expertise in impact- and abrasion-resistant rubber belts used in harsh environments, such as conveying crushed stone and ore.
5. Volvo Siegling Japan K.K.
   • URL:. https://www.forbo.com/movement/ja-jp/
   • Description: A worldwide manufacturer of belts, offering plastic belts "Transilon" and plastic modular belts "Prolink". Its product catalogs and technical documents are very detailed and provide information on material selection from a global perspective as well as on food safety regulations (e.g. EU regulations).

That's it.