Choosing the Right belt for Washdown Conveyors

August 2, 2023
2 Minute Read

In industries where cleanliness and product safety are paramount, like within the food & beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors, choosing the right belt for washdown conveyors is of utmost importance. The proper belt selection ensures efficient cleaning, prevents contamination, and maintains a hygienic environment. In this article, we will explore the significance of selecting the appropriate belt for washdown conveyors and breakdown some of the different types of belts you can choose from.

Understanding the Importance of Belt Selection for Washdown Conveyors

Washdown conveyors play a critical role in ensuring cleanliness and hygiene within the production environments of the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. These conveyors are specifically designed to withstand rigorous cleaning procedures, resist chemicals, and facilitate the smooth flow of products while preventing contamination.

Choosing the right belt for washdown conveyors is of utmost importance. The wrong belt selection can have significant implications for operations. It can also result in decreased efficiency, increased downtime, and even pose safety hazards.

An unsuitable belt may not withstand the frequent cleaning cycles required in these industries, leading to premature wear and tear. It may also fail to resist chemicals properly, compromising product safety and quality. Furthermore, a poorly chosen belt can impede product flow, causing bottlenecks and disruptions in the production process.

To ensure optimal performance and adherence to strict hygiene standards, careful consideration must be given to belt selection. By choosing belts specifically designed for washdown applications, businesses can minimize downtime, enhance operational efficiency, and maintain the highest levels of cleanliness and product integrity.

Types of Belts Suitable for Washdown Conveyors

There are various types of belts available, each with its own advantages and suitability for washdown applications. Let’s explore some of the belt options and their characteristics:

Plastic Modular Belts: Plastic modular belts offer numerous advantages for washdown conveyors. These belts are known for their versatility, durability, and ease of cleaning. They consist of interlocking plastic modules that create a flexible and robust surface. Plastic modular belts are resistant to moisture, chemicals, and temperature variations, making them ideal for washdown applications in these industries. Their modular design also enables easy replacement of damaged sections, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
PVC Style Belts: PVC style belts are another popular choice for washdown conveyors. These belts are affordable, flexible, and resistant to oil, grease, and water. PVC belts are suitable for light to medium-duty applications and can handle a variety of products in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors. While they are not as durable as some other belt types, they offer cost-effective solutions for washdown conveyors where heavy-duty performance is not required.
Tabletop Chain (Plastic or Metal): Tabletop chain belts, available in both plastic and metal variants, are known for their strength and load-carrying capacity. These belts consist of individual links or plates that create a flat conveying surface. Plastic tabletop chain belts offer advantages such as resistance to chemicals, ease of cleaning, and suitability for applications with delicate products. Metal tabletop chain belts, on the other hand, excel in high-temperature environments and heavy-duty conveying applications.
Metal Belts: Metal belts, typically made of stainless steel, are known for their high-temperature resistance, strength, and longevity. They are suitable for demanding applications where extreme temperatures, heavy loads, or abrasive materials are present. Metal belts can withstand rigorous cleaning procedures and provide reliable performance in washdown conveyors operating in harsh conditions.

While the above-mentioned belts are suitable for washdown applications, it is important to note that rubber and fabric (woven) belts are not recommended for this purpose. Rubber and fabric belts are porous in nature and can absorb moisture and contaminants, leading to hygiene and safety concerns. They are not designed to withstand the rigorous cleaning procedures required in washdown environments and may deteriorate quickly, compromising product safety and conveyor performance.

When selecting a belt for washdown conveyors, it is fundamental to consider factors such as material compatibility, resistance to cleaning chemicals, ease of cleaning, and overall durability. Working with reputable belt manufacturers or consulting with experts in the industry can help ensure the right belt is chosen for specific washdown conveyor requirements. At Hanover Conveying we will guide you through the entire process of a customized conveying system, including selecting the best belt for your specific need.