In the US, the most common size for a conveyor belt is 18 inches (45.7 cm) wide.
Conveyor belts are measured in width by the thickness of the belt, which is indicated by a “Plies” number. For example, an 18 inch (45.7 cm) wide conveyor belt would have a “Plies” number of 3 (3 layers of fabric).
If you’re looking for a conveyor belt for your business, it’s important to understand the available different types.
In this blog post, we will discuss the four most common types of conveyor belts: flat belt, modular belt, timing belt, and V-belt.
We will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each type so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing a conveyor belt, so keep reading.
Conveyor Belts: What Are They For?
Conveyor belts are a key piece of equipment in many industrial and manufacturing applications.
They are used to transport materials from one point to another, often over long distances. Conveyor belts can be made from a variety of materials, including PVC, polyester, cotton, and rubber.
There are four main types of conveyor belts: flat belts, modular belts, timing belts, and V-belts. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss in more detail below.
Flat Belt Conveyors
Flat belt conveyors are the most common type of conveyor belt. They consist of a continuous loop of material that is supported by a series of rollers or pulleys. Flat belt conveyors are used in a variety of industries, including the food, automotive, and pharmaceutical industries.
Nevertheless, flat belt conveyors are not suitable for transporting fragile or delicate items.
Some advantages of flat belt conveyors include:
- They are easy to set up and take down
- They are versatile and can be used in a variety of industries
- They are less expensive than other types of conveyor belts
However, there are also some disadvantages to using flat belt conveyors:
- Items can fall off the belt if they are not properly secured
- The belt can become damaged if it is overloaded
- The belt may require frequent maintenance
Modular Belt Conveyors
Modular belt conveyors are a popular type of conveyor system for many different industrial and manufacturing applications.
These belts are made up of modular plastic or metal modules connected to form a belt. This type of belt is solid and durable, and can be easily customized to fit various needs.
Modular belt conveyors can be used to transport and move small parts, large items and much more. They are also often used in assembly lines and other production processes.
In addition, modular belt conveyors can be easily reconfigured to change the direction or length of the conveyor.
There are many different types of modular belt conveyors available on the market today. Some of the most popular include:
Gravity Roller Conveyors: These conveyors use gravity to move materials down the line. They are often used in assembly lines and other production processes where items need to be moved quickly and efficiently.
Powered Roller Conveyors: These conveyors use electric motors to power the rollers, which move the conveyor belt and materials forward. Powered roller conveyors are often used in heavier-duty applications, such as moving heavy boxes or packages.
Chain Conveyors: Chain conveyors are similar to belt conveyors, but they use chains instead of belts to move materials. These conveyors are often used in heavy-duty applications, such as moving large or heavy objects.
Timing Belt Conveyors
Timing belt conveyors are a type of conveyor that uses timing belts instead of chains or belts to move materials.
These belts are specially designed to be strong and durable, and they are often used in heavy-duty applications. Timing belt conveyors can be used to move a variety of materials, including boxes, bags, packages, and even small parts.
Timing belt conveyors are often used in assembly lines and other production processes where items need to be moved quickly and efficiently. In addition, timing belt conveyors can be easily reconfigured to change the direction or length of the conveyor.
The advantages of using timing belt conveyor system include:
Increased durability: Timing belts are designed to be strong and durable, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.
Increased efficiency: Timing belt conveyors can move materials quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for use in assembly lines and other production processes.
Easy reconfiguration: Timing belt conveyors can be easily reconfigured to change the direction or length of the conveyor. This makes them very versatile and adaptable to a variety of needs.
V-Belt Conveyors
V-Belt conveyors are one of the most popular and versatile types of conveyor belts on the market. They are often used in industrial and manufacturing settings to transport materials from one location to another.
V-Belt conveyors are also known for their ability to operate in many different environments, including both indoor and outdoor applications.
They get their name from their V-shaped belt, which is designed to grip and move materials along its length. The V-shape of the belt helps keep the material on the belt while it is moving, preventing it from falling off or becoming entangled.
V-Belt conveyors are great for transporting loose items such as gravel or sand, as well as more delicate items such as glass or electronics.
V-Belt conveyors are available in a variety of different sizes and configurations to suit the needs of any application.
They can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and PVC, and can be outfitted with a number of different features such as variable speed controls and stop switches.
V-Belt conveyors are also relatively easy to maintain and repair, making them a popular choice for many businesses.
The Right Solution for You
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the right type of conveyor belt for your needs.
The best solution will depend on a number of factors, including the type of material you need to move, the weight and size of the items, and the environment in which the conveyor will be used.
If you’re interested in a belt system for your business, get in touch with us and we will accommodate your needs.
