The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Conveyor Belt

Author: becky

Dec. 09, 2024

Chemicals

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Conveyor Belt

Conveyor belt can affect the productivity of your plant. Hence, you need to put more time into selecting the best belt for great results.

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Selecting the right conveyor belt is utterly important. If you make a mistake in the selection, you will put your manufacturing plant into jeopardy.  Belting that is of low quality, is likely to lower your production and may be unsafe to the workers. If this happens, the company may encounter losses. You can jumpstart your company&#;s revenues by choosing the right belt.

Factors you must consider when buying a conveyor belt

  • The product&#;s size and weight
  • The material of the product
  • The method of loading the product on the belt
  • The speed with which the product will be produced
  • Method of travel of the product, ,incline or decline
  • Whether the belt will operate on a hot, dry, cold or wet environment

If you are able to answer the questions above, you will have no challenges selecting the right belt.  Below are some of the available belts to help you out:

General-purpose belts

There are the most-used conveyor belts. You can find them in almost every manufacturing plant, although some companies use different belting based on their products. General-purpose belts are often made of PVC, leather, rubber and Neoprene among others. These belts are suited for food grading, high temperature environments and it is also oil resistant and does not cut easily.  Besides, it is the best belt for bulk handling and other applications.  For a food business, a general-purpose belt, suits you best.

Hinge metal belting

This is used in industries who handle scrap and metal chips. It is durable to withstand any pressure. Hence, if you are running a scrap metal recycling business, hinge metal belting will never disappoint.

Woven wire belting

This type of conveyor belting is applied in cold/hot environments. You can use it, if you are running a food processing plant, glass and ceramics, metalworking or electronics.  It is durable and closely interwoven to ensure that products are conveyed without falling off.

These are only some of the conveyor belts available in the market but these may give you a quick overview on what to look out for. Contact your custom conveyor specialist to further discuss your belting needs.

At the heart of every conveyor is the belting that transports the material. May Conveyor manufactures and fabricates standard & custom conveyor belting.

We are a premier manufacturer of conveyor belting of various pitch and chain configurations, for all your conveying needs. With decades of experience, we have developed a quality product featuring a fully closed and totally concentric hinge loop. These features provide for stronger and better wearing hinge assembly, resulting in longer belt life with less maintenance.

Belting is what sets us apart from others as we make our dies in-house by the May Tool & Die Group. These precision components meet all automotive standards helping us become known as a quality supplier in the marketplace today. Contact us today!

Conveyor Belt Selection Guide: Factors For Optimal ...

Conveyor Belt Selection Guide: Factors For Optimal Performance

conveyor belts are a critical part of logistical operations where end-to-end assembly and product sorting are done daily. In this conveyor belt selection guide, we will take you through the nitty-gritty of choosing conveyors that align with your production capacity without hampering the plant&#;s operation. 

Let&#;s begin by understanding the types of conveyor belts.

Conveyor Belts &#; Major Operational Types

1) Flat belt conveyors:

Flat belts are versatile and suitable for various industries. They are commonly used for transporting lightweight loads and are known for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

2) Modular Belt Conveyors:

Modular belts consist of interlocking segments, providing a flexible and adaptable solution. These belts are ideal for conveying heavy loads and are widely used in industries with rigorous production demands.

3) Cleated Belt Conveyors:

Cleated belts feature raised sections that prevent materials from sliding or rolling off the conveyor. They are excellent for transporting inclined or steeply inclined materials.

4) Wire Mesh Belt Conveyors:

Wire mesh belts are popular in industries where good air circulation and drainage are essential. They are commonly used in food processing and heat treatment applications.

Next, let&#;s understand the critical factors to consider when selecting a conveyor belt for your specific application.

Now, let&#;s move to the selection criteria of conveyor belts. 

Conveyor Belt Selection Guide Factors:

1) Material Compatibility:

The conveyed material&#;s characteristics greatly influence conveyor belt selection. Consider factors such as abrasiveness, temperature sensitivity, and whether the material is corrosive.

2) Load Capacity:

Determining the maximum load the conveyor will handle is vital. Ensure the selected belt can withstand the weight and impact of the materials being transported.

3) Operating Environment:

The most important step in the conveyor belt selection guide is assessing the environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and the presence of chemicals. Choose a conveyor belt that can endure the environmental challenges of your facility.

4) Conveyor Speed:

The speed at which the conveyor operates affects both the belt selection and overall system performance. Ensure the chosen belt can handle the required speed without compromising safety or durability.

5) Belt Width and Length:

Consider the dimensions of your conveyor system, including the required width and length of the belt. Proper sizing is crucial for efficient material handling.

Conveyor Chain Selection &#; A Big Cog in the Wheel

In addition to the conveyor belt, selecting the appropriate conveyor chain is vital for a well-functioning system.

I) Chain Type:

Different industries require different chain types. Roller chains, flat-top chains, and accumulating chains are some common options. Consider the specific needs of your application.

II) Strength and Durability:

Choose a conveyor chain with sufficient strength and durability to withstand the load and stress of your application. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure prolonged chain life.

Conveyor Gearbox Selection: The Next Big Step

Selecting the right gearbox for your conveyor system is crucial for maintaining efficiency and preventing breakdowns.

1)Torque Requirements:

Calculate the torque required for your conveyor system based on the load and operating conditions. Choose a gearbox that can handle the calculated torque to ensure smooth operation.

2) Gear Ratio:

The gear ratio determines the speed and torque of the conveyor system. Consider the application&#;s speed requirements in the conveyor belt selection guide and choose a gearbox with an appropriate gear ratio.

Conveyor Idler Selection:

Conveyor idlers support the conveyor belt and play a significant role in its overall performance. Take note of idlers in the conveyor belt selection guide. 

1) Idler Type:

Choose the appropriate idler type based on your application, such as impact idlers for heavy loads or training idlers for belt alignment.

2) Material and Coating:

Consider the material and coating of the idler to ensure resistance to wear, corrosion, and other environmental factors.

Conveyor Pulley Selection:

Pulleys are essential components in the conveyor system, contributing to belt tension and tracking.

I) Diameter and Face Width:

Select pulleys with the right diameter and face width to ensure proper belt tracking and tension.

II) Lagging Material:

Choose the appropriate lagging material for pulleys to enhance traction and reduce slippage. This is an important criterion in the conveyor belt selection guide. 

Booming Technology in Conveyor Belts

1) Smart Conveyor Systems:

One of the most significant advancements in conveyor belt technology is the integration of smart systems. Intelligent conveyor belts are equipped with sensors, cameras, and other IoT (Internet of Things) devices, allowing them to gather real-time data on product movement, speed, and condition. This data is then analyzed using advanced algorithms to optimize the overall production process. Smart conveyor systems enable predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and increasing the lifespan of the equipment.

2) Industry 4.0 Integration:

As industries embrace the fourth industrial revolution, conveyor belt selection guides are evolving into integral components of supply chain 4.0. These smart conveyor systems can be seamlessly integrated into larger networks, enabling communication between different manufacturing elements. 

This connectivity fosters a more streamlined and efficient production process, where conveyor belts can adapt their speed, trajectory, and functionality in response to real-time demands and changes in the manufacturing environment.

3) Lightweight and High-Strength Materials:

Recent advancements in materials science have led to the development of lightweight yet high-strength materials for conveyor belts. Carbon fiber, aramid fibers, and other composite materials are replacing traditional materials like rubber and steel, resulting in conveyor belt selection guides that are not only stronger but also more energy-efficient. These lightweight materials contribute to reduced energy consumption, making conveyor systems more environmentally friendly.

4) Energy-Efficient Designs:

The push for sustainability in manufacturing has driven the development of energy-efficient conveyor belt designs. Variable frequency drives (VFDs), regenerative braking systems, and advanced motor technologies are being integrated to optimize power consumption. 

Conveyor systems are now designed to operate at variable speeds based on the production demand, reducing energy waste during idle periods and lowering overall operational costs.

5) Improved Safety Features:

Safety is a paramount concern in industrial settings, and conveyor belt technology has not been left behind in this aspect. Advanced safety features, such as emergency stop systems, anti-jamming mechanisms, and smart sensors, are now standard in modern conveyor designs. These features enhance worker safety and prevent accidents, reinforcing the role of conveyor belts as reliable and secure components in industrial environments.

FAQs: Conveyor Belt Selection Guide

What is the importance of a conveyor belt selection guide?

A selection guide is crucial for making informed decisions about the right belt for your application, considering factors like material compatibility, load capacity, and operating environment.

How do I choose a conveyor belt thickness?

The minimum rubber cover should be approx. 3 mm * 1.5 mm. High tensile rating and greater thickness lead to continuous occurrences of belt failure and abrasion. The material&#;s characteristics and temperature sensitivity, influence the choice of conveyor belt to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

What role do conveyor chains play in conveyor system efficiency?

Choosing the appropriate conveyor chain is essential for smooth operation and longevity, considering factors like chain type, strength, and durability.

Why is torque important in gearbox selection for conveyors?

Torque is crucial in gearbox selection as it determines the gearbox&#;s ability to handle the load and stress of the conveyor system, ensuring efficient and reliable operation.

How do idlers contribute to conveyor belt performance?

Idlers support the conveyor belt and contribute to its overall performance by ensuring proper alignment, reducing friction, and supporting heavy loads.

What factors should be considered when selecting pulleys for conveyors?

Factors like pulley diameter, face width, and lagging material are crucial in pulley selection to ensure proper belt tracking, tension, and reduced slippage.

Final Takeaway

The conveyor belt selection guide takes into account various factors like speed, material, and tensile strength, to determine the optimal performance of these belts. Consider your budget and the application before investing in a good quality conveyor for an enhanced material handling system. 
Additionally, for end-to-end supply chain logistical solutions, get in touch with Qodenext to skyrocket your business operations.

How to Select the Right Replacement Conveyor Belts

There are several factors to consider when choosing replacement conveyor belts, including:

Product

It is critical to select the correct replacement conveyor belt for the actual product or package you are conveying. For example, with metal stamping, a hard urethane surface is often preferred to resist cuts and gouges. Rough top textures are required in many incline applications so they can resist the tendency to slip downhill, and bakeries require dough release in many applications--a cotton surface may be exactly what is needed for a bakery. 

Pulley Diameter

Take the time to measure the smallest pulley the belt will travel around - what does this measure as? Does the pulley on the discharge end rotate or feature a fixed nose roller or knife edge? If your belt has a complicated travel circuit with back bending, it will need to be noted as well. All belts have a minimum bend radius which is published on their technical data sheets.

Size

Did you know that the carcass of conveyor belts is designed to work with different width-to-length ratios of conveyors? For example, conveyors with a short overall length and relatively wide width are usually more difficult to track. Selecting a Monoflex carcass will result in less time turning a wrench on your take-up adjustment and longer production runs.

Application

What is your conveyor doing to your product? Are you removing bread from pans, stamping car parts, or stacking corrugated containers? Conveyor belts feature a wide variety of surfaces and textures that are designed to enhance your operation.

Contamination

Suggested reading:
Greenhouse buyer's guide - Short version
Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR)
Green Chemistry Program Nomination Table | US EPA

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Bluemaxim.

Across the board, the most common cause of replacement belt tracking issues is tied directly to contamination. Oils, dirt, dust, product, and even worn rubber from your pulley lagging - these are common causes that need to be assessed prior to selecting the best replacement conveyor belt.

 



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How to Choose a Mining Conveyor Belt

How to Choose a Mining Conveyor Belt

There are multiple moving parts and components that help power a conveyor system. Idlers, 

winches, bearings, couplings, gearboxes, motors, fluid couplings, and scrapers work in unison to transport materials from Point A to Point B.

One of the more often overlooked parts of a conveyor setup is none other than the belt itself. This pivotal component helps support and transport the product safely to its intended destination.

Read on to learn more about the various types of conveyor belts and the deciding factors you should consider when selecting one for your conveyor system.

WHAT IS A MINING CONVEYOR BELT?

A mining conveyor belt is one of the most essential components of a conveyor system. It transports ore and other materials from the mining site to processing facilities or loading areas. 

Conveyor belts are powered by a motor that runs off electricity or other power sources. 

Depending on the application and several other considerations, the composition of the belt could include a plastic or rubber compound, fabric materials, and steel cables. It&#;s supported by rollers that allow it to safely and efficiently move ore and other materials at a predetermined speed. 

CONVEYOR BELT COMPOSITION

Conventional conveyor belts are comprised of three layers:

The top layer, or cover, which is what the product rests on during transportation. 

The middle layer, also known as the carcass, helps support the belt. The carcass tends to be made of either metal or woven fabric. 

Finally, there&#;s the bottom cover to complete the belt makeup.

WHAT ARE THE different types OF CONVEYOR BELTS?

It&#;s critical to choose the right type of conveyor belt to ensure safe and reliable operation. Using the wrong belt can lead to catastrophic consequences and unplanned downtime.

These are the different types of conveyor belts available:

Multi-ply&#;Consists of various layers of fabric separated by rubber, which helps deaden impact. Tend to be longer-lasting and are used for underground applications. 

Straight-warp&#;Ideal for tunneling applications, they&#;re most often used in rock quarries and rock crushers. Impact and tear resistance are the two premiere attributes, which feature yarns and polyamide on both sides. A straight-warp belt can achieve higher troughability at narrower belt widths and higher PIW ratings.

Steel-cord&#;Steel cables running the entire length of the belt anchor this type of conveyor belt, which is used for underground applications.

Solid woven belts&#;These are more popular in Europe and Asia and not used often in the U.S.

Heat-resistant&#;Designed to withstand high temperatures.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR CHOOSING A MINING CONVEYOR BELT

If you&#;re shopping for a mining conveyor belt, you should first decide your tensile strength requirement, cover thickness, and cover type depending on the material being transported and loaded. Also of particular importance is the operating environment in which the conveyor transports material.   

Conveyors that move packaging or light materials in temperature-controlled warehouses won&#;t have the same demands as those transporting heavy products underground in mines and quarries.

This is why the application and environment should be the two top considerations when selecting a mining conveyor belt.

ABOVE OR UNDERGROUND?

The key difference between above-ground and underground mining belts is the materials used in the manufacturing process. A standard surface or above-ground mining conveyor belt is composed of highly flammable petrochemicals. If used in an underground mining application, there&#;s a good chance that the belt can combust and present a severe safety hazard. 

UNDERGROUND

Underground mining belts are made of flame-resistant materials. Special agents, impregnation paste, and rubber components are added during manufacturing to help decrease the friction factor and increase fire resistance.

SURFACE/ABOVE-GROUND

The selection of an above-ground conveyor belt is mainly determined by the properties of the raw materials you&#;re transporting. The levels of humidity, granularity, and abrasion characteristics are all essential factors in this decision. 

For example, highly abrasive materials such as iron ore, metallurgic coke, and quartz will require a much sturdier belt than moderately abrasive materials, such as ash or sand.

Here&#;s a chart that delves into a comparison of the Depreux brand of above and underground mining conveyor belts:

ElementDELTA or DELTA CFW Surface/Above-Ground BeltsFirewall&#; &#; Firewall II&#; Underground BeltsFiremaster&#; -PVGUnderground BeltsApplicationTransportation of bulk or other material in various mining and industrial sectors such as quarries, mines, paper and wood, glass, cement, steel, eg.Both Firewall and Firewall II are belts used to transport bulk or other material in various underground mining and quarrying applications or any application in which MSHA Part 14 fire resistance is a requirement.DEPREUX Firemaster-PVG belts offer a longer service life and are ideal for use in severe operating conditions such as moving large material, high-speed systems, long distances, steep slopes, risk of impact damage, edge wear, or longitudinal tearing.Tensile StrengthTensile strength 150 PIW to PIW using 2 to 5 plies.Tensile strength 150 PIW to PIW using 2 to 5 plies.Ranges from a standard of 150 PIW to PIWWidth and LengthStandard 18&#; to 96&#; maximum. Tolerance +/- 1%. Wider belts are available.Standard 36&#; to 84&#; maximum. The width tolerance is +/- 1%. Wider belts are available.Thicknesses and weights vary for different specifications. Contact us for more details.Belt StructureThe DELTA or DELTA CFW belt textile carcase is made up of layers of fabric, from 2 to 5 (or more) plies. Each of these is separated by a rubber layer. This «sandwich» structure enables the belt to absorb shocks.The Fireshield&#; and Firewall II&#; belt carcase is made up of layered fabrics, from 2-5 plies. Each ply is separated by a rubber interlayer which enables the belt to absorb shocks.Made out of a textile carcase that&#;s impregnated with a special PVC. The carcase is then further protected via a proprietary DEPREUX cover that provides special characteristics to ensure improved performance and longer life.Belt StretchAt 10% of belt nominal tensile strength: 1.5% max. Permanent stretch: around 0.7% and elastic stretch: around 0.5% for a standard carcase.At 10% of belt nominal tensile strength: 1.5% max. Permanent stretch: around 0.7% and elastic stretch: around 0.5% for standard carcaseAt 10% of nominal belt tensile strength: 1% maximum elastic stretch: 0.5% to 0.7% for a standard carcase. Permanent stretch: 0.4% to 0.7%Main Mechanical PropertiesBelt StretchAdhesionBelt StretchAdhesionBelt StretchFastenersMechanical Resistance

 

Depreaux Underground Safety Belt Information

Depreaux Surface Conveyor Belt Information

NATURE OF MATERIAL TRANSPORTED 

Under ideal conditions, the average lifespan of a mining conveyor belt is anywhere from three to ten years, depending on length, transfer design, etc. The nature of the bulk materials you&#;re transporting can also significantly affect belt lifespan. 

For example, sharp, jagged, abrasive materials can damage the belt much faster. This is why it&#;s important to choose a belt that&#;s specifically designed for your application and is well-supported in the loading zone.

FIREPROOFING

If your mining conveyor operates in an underground environment, it likely has to comply with MSHA Part 14 fire resistance requirements. Make sure you&#;re fully aware of the rules and regulations that can impact the type of belt you select for your conveyor to ensure you&#;re operating at maximum levels of safety, not to mention staying compliant.

SERVICE LIFE

Some belts are made to last longer than others, and certain factors like longevity and durability are important based on the particular type of environment. 

Conveyors running underground or transporting material from mines and quarries pose greater demands on the conveyor belt than a line in a factory transporting empty boxes.

Understand your needs when it comes to durability and ruggedness. Failure to consider this could result in productivity loss and increased downtime.

PULLEY DIAMETER

Depending on the thickness of the belt fabric from top to bottom, there is a manufacturer-recommended pulley diameter that you&#;ll need to consider.

CORROSION-RESISTANCE 

Belts can corrode&#;especially those that incorporate metals into their makeup. While corrosion may not be as much of a worry in a climate-controlled facility, it can pose challenges on underground conveyors where temperatures, UV light, moisture levels, and humidity tend to fluctuate.

BELT WIDTH & LENGTH 

Since all belts aren&#;t made for the same applications, they aren&#;t constructed in similar widths or sizes. 

For example, the belts you see on the conveyor belt systems in grocery store checkouts are much smaller in width and length than the ones you&#;d find underground transporting products from the mine. 

While many belts can be custom-made to fit a desired length and width, it&#;s always best to know your sizing requirements.

TEMPERATURE

The temperature of the materials you&#;re transporting is another vital consideration. For example, rock and ore that come straight from the ground could be as hot as 220°F. While this is not enough to catch the belt on fire, it could potentially cause irreparable damage. 

A belt designed with specific thermal properties can help mitigate damage caused by high-temperature materials.

Check out our Mining Conveyor Belt Maintenance Guide.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What is a conveyor belt for coal?

A: Coal conveyor belts are specifically designed to safely and efficiently move coal from one area to another. West River Conveyors has over 40 years of experience building custom conveyors for the coal mining industry.

Q: Which type of mining uses conveyor belts?

A: Coal, rock, precious metals, iron ore, lead, and lithium are just a few examples of mining operations that use conveyor belts.

Q: What is a quarry conveyor belt?

A: A quarry conveyor belt moves materials, such as sand, gravel, rock, marble, or crushed stone from a quarry site to an endpoint.

Q: What is TPH in a conveyor?

A: The acronym &#;TPH&#; stands for &#;tons per hour&#; and is a critical measurement that determines the ideal conveyor belt to use on a mining conveyor system. It measures how many tons of rock or ore per hour the conveyor belt moves. TPH correlates to belt speed or how fast the belt moves.

SELECTING THE BEST MINING CONVEYOR BELT

Don&#;t overlook the mining conveyor belt when designing the conveyor system for your next project. While there are many different types of conveyor belts to choose from, they are a key piece of the overall puzzle that helps ensure productivity and that your profit goals are not only met&#;but exceeded.

 

If you would like more information about this product, please feel free to contact us. Recommend other popular products for you: Canvas Conveyor Belts, Canvas Fabric Conveyor Belt, Non-Woven Canvas Conveyor Belt, Canvas Conveyor Belt Manufacturer, Canvas Conveyor Belt Material, Steel Cord Conveyor Belt Price, Steel Cord Conveyor Belt Specifications, Special Conveyor Belt, Special Conveyor Belt Supplier, Conveyor China, High Strength Conveyor Belt, how conveyor belts work, canvas belt conveyor, wholesale steel cord conveyor belt, conveyor belt material types, material used for conveyor belt, types of conveyor belt material, steel cord conveyor belt in china, steel cord belt specification, canvas conveyor belt manufacturers, steel cord conveyor belt for sale, canvas conveyor, haichuan, steel cord conveyor belt china, haichuan heavy industry

For more information, please visit Textile Reinforced Conveyor Belt.

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