When selecting the proper belt conveyor for your process needs, it is critical to consider the different types of conveyor belts (and belt cleaners) available. In order for a conveyor to operate at its full potential, the correct belting and cleaning options must be selected.
While there are many types of conveyor belts, the most appropriate belt is determined by examining what belt characteristics will result in the most efficient handling solution for your material’s unique characteristics at any given point in the process. For example, will the material be hot from a kiln or drying application in which a heat-resistant conveyor belt may be required? Choosing the right belting for the application at hand can mean the difference between an efficient, low-maintenance conveyor, and one that requires frequent maintenance and downtime.
This article focuses on the types of conveyor belts suited for troughed belt conveyors, shuttle conveyors, and steep incline conveyors.
Types of Conveyor Belts for Troughed Belt & Shuttle Conveyors
The troughed belt conveyor is the most versatile conveyor design that FEECO manufactures. This type of conveyor is ideal for raw or processed material and can be set to operate at several different angles.
Similar in design, the shuttle conveyor allows for multiple discharge locations as it travels along a track system – a major benefit for applications such as evenly filling multiple storage bins. Normally, shuttle conveyors can run all the same types of conveyor belts and belt cleaners as troughed conveyors. In order for either style of conveyor to operate at its full potential, however, the correct options must be selected.
| Belting Options – Troughed Belt & Shuttle Conveyors | ||
| Heat Resistant | Raised Profile(Steep Angle Belting) | Moderate Oil Resistant |
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Belt Cleaner Options
A variety of conveyor belt cleaners are available as well. Some wet and/or sticky materials have a tendency to adhere to the belt surface, causing carryback, build-up, and ultimately preventing the conveyor from operating correctly. These problems can also contribute to increased wear and mechanical failures. Belt cleaners are used to prevent these issues, keeping belt conveyors in optimal condition and ensuring efficient operation for years to come.
| Belt Cleaning Options – Troughed Belt & Shuttle Conveyors | ||
| Belt Scraper | Belt Cleaners | Return Belt Cleaner |
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Types of Conveyor Belts for Pocket Belt (Steep Incline) Conveyors
Because of its design differences, steep incline conveyors will not be able to proficiently use any of the same components as troughed or shuttle conveyors unless the angle is under approximately 20 degrees.
Pocket belt conveyors instead work best with special belting that contains the material at the steep angle, preventing material fallback and increasing handling efficiency. Unfortunately, this special belting is not as easy to keep clean during operation, so dry, less adhesive materials perform better with this style of belt conveyor. Below are the types of belt conveyors and the belt cleaners available for our pocket belt/steep incline conveyors.
| Belting Options – Pocket Belt (Steep Incline) Conveyors | Belt Cleaning Options – Pocket Belt (Steep Incline) Conveyors | |
| Corrugated Side Wall | Raised Profile (Steep Angle Belting) | Belt Thumper |
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At FEECO, we know it’s critical to have a solid understanding of the process and the material before selecting the proper type of conveyor belt for each conveyor style in every unique setting. This allows us to confirm that all of our equipment will have the right configuration to meet or exceed the customer’s requirements. Our long history in bulk solids handling, in combination with our concept testing facility, ensures that we can find an innovative solution for your bulk material handling requirements. For more expertise on belt conveyors and other bulk material handling equipment, contact us today.