Overview
A belt conveyor moves product on a single continuous belt running over a flat bed or rollers, driven by friction from a powered pulley at one end. It is the simplest and most widely used conveyor type, and for straight transfer of packaged goods, components and light bulk product it is usually the most cost-effective choice.
The belt itself is what determines where the conveyor can work. We build in two main belt materials. PVC belting is the general-purpose, cost-effective option, well suited to packaging, assembly and dry handling where there is little direct food contact. PU (polyurethane) belting is more elastic and wear-resistant, holds up far better against oils, fats and greases, and stays flexible in chilled conditions, which is why it is the usual choice for direct food contact on meat, poultry, dairy and cold-chain lines.
Because the belt runs on friction rather than sprockets, a belt conveyor is quieter than a modular or chain conveyor and gives a smooth, continuous carrying surface with no gaps. The trade-off is that it needs tracking and tensioning to keep the belt centred, and a damaged belt is replaced as a whole rather than repaired in sections.
Belt types
PVC belt
The cost-effective general-purpose belt. Good for packaging, assembly, carton and dry product handling. Food-grade PVC grades are available where contact is incidental.
PU belt
Polyurethane belting for direct food contact. Non-porous, resistant to oils and fats, and stays flexible in cold and chilled environments. Standard on meat, poultry and dairy lines.
Cleated belt
Cleats or flights moulded across the belt hold product in place on inclines and declines, allowing elevation between levels on a single run.
Sidewall belt
Raised edges contain loose or small product so it cannot spill off the sides, used for bulk, granules and small components.
Key features
Smooth continuous surface
A single unbroken belt with no module gaps or chain links, so small, light or unstable product is carried without catching or tipping.
Quiet running
Friction drive over a flat bed runs noticeably quieter than sprocket-driven chain or modular belts, which matters on manned packing and inspection lines.
PVC or PU belting
Belt material is chosen for the duty: PVC for cost-effective dry and packaging work, PU where oils, fats, direct food contact or cold conditions are involved.
Inclines with cleats
Cleated and sidewall belts lift product between levels and contain loose material, so one conveyor can replace a transfer plus an elevator.
Lower cost per metre
For straight runs carrying light to medium loads, a belt conveyor is typically the lowest-cost option to buy and to run.
Built to your line
Belt width, length, working height, speed and frame material are set to your layout rather than picked from fixed catalogue sizes.
Applications
- Packaging and end-of-line handling
- Assembly and inspection lines
- Carton and parcel transfer
- Meat, poultry and dairy handling (PU belt)
- Bakery and snack production
- Chilled and cold-chain lines (PU belt)
- Incline and decline transfer (cleated belt)
- Loose and bulk product (sidewall belt)
Typical specifications
- Belt materials
- PVC and PU (polyurethane), in food-grade and general-purpose grades
- Belt styles
- Plain, cleated, sidewall, textured
- Belt width
- Built to specification for your product and line
- Frame
- Stainless steel for wash-down and food duty, or aluminium and mild steel for dry duty
- Drive
- Friction drive from a powered head pulley, with belt tracking and tensioning
- Layouts
- Straight, incline, decline, Z-frame
- Food contact
- Food-grade PVC and PU belting available to FDA 21 CFR 177.2600
Typical values for this conveyor type. Final specifications are confirmed for your application on quotation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a PVC and a PU conveyor belt?
PVC is the cost-effective general-purpose belt, suited to packaging, assembly and dry handling. PU (polyurethane) is more elastic and wear-resistant, resists oils, fats and greases, and stays flexible in cold conditions, so it is preferred for direct food contact and chilled lines. PVC is cheaper; PU lasts longer in demanding or greasy conditions.
Which belt should I use for food contact?
PU belting is the usual choice for direct food contact because it is non-porous and resists oils and fats, which makes it suitable for meat, poultry and dairy. Food-grade PVC is available where contact is incidental, such as packaged goods. Both are available in grades meeting FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 for repeated food contact.
When should I choose a belt conveyor over a modular belt conveyor?
Choose a belt conveyor for straight runs of light to medium product where you want a smooth continuous surface, quiet running and lower cost. Choose a modular belt where the line has to turn corners, climb inclines, run wet or be washed down daily, or where you want to repair the belt in sections instead of replacing it whole.
Can a belt conveyor run on an incline?
Yes. A plain belt will handle a gentle gradient, but for anything steeper the belt is fitted with cleats or flights that hold the product so it cannot slide back. Sidewalls can be added to stop loose product spilling off the edges on the climb.
Does a belt conveyor need tracking and tensioning?
Yes. Because the belt is driven by friction, it needs correct tension and tracking to stay centred, and this is checked as part of routine maintenance. This is the main practical difference from a modular belt conveyor, which is sprocket driven and cannot mistrack.
How long does a conveyor belt last?
Belt life depends on the material, the product carried and the working environment. Abrasive product, oils and greases, high temperatures and steam wash-down all shorten it. PU generally outlasts PVC where oils or fats are present, though prolonged hot water and steam cleaning will shorten PU life faster than many operators expect.