Why is Steel Cord Conveyor Belt Better?

Reinforcement properties

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Made of high-tensile steel cords and various cover grades (see below). A typical carcass with 7 x 7 hot-galvanised steel cords provides a tensile strength of up to 2,000 N/mm. Also available as 7 x 19 for higher tensile strength (10 000 N/mm).

Standard cords have an elongation of 0.22 - 0.28%. High structural strength and pull-out strength ensure good resistance against fatigue. The open cross-lay design of the cords and the chemical adhesive system ensure that the core rubber penetrates thoroughly, bonds well and protects against corrosion for long-term integrity.

Cover grades

The belts come with various cover grades, all made of high-quality rubber with extremely high resistance to abrasion, cutting and impact and with excellent ageing properties. The choice of cover grade will depend on the application and will also determine the working life of the belt. Matching the right belt to your application means generating less waste in the long run — helping you to reach your sustainability targets.

Wear-resistant

Available in X, Y, W grades (and similar) for heavy-wear conveying applications such as bulky, sharp materials like heavy, abrasive rocks. High-quality cover grades are recommended to offer the best protection to the belt carcass.

Heat-resistant

Different types of grades are available for high-temperature applications (T120 and T200) such as clinker, coke, foundry sand and slag. Can be used for transporting material at continuous temperatures of up to 190 °C, with peaks of up to 200 °C

Flame-resistant

Available in flame-resistant grade K to comply with ISO 340. Can be used in tunnel projects but not underground applications.

Contact your Metso expert for more information and advice regarding the best choice of belt and cover grade for your operation.

Steel cord and fabric conveyor belts are two of the most commonly used types of conveyor belts in various industries. Both have their own unique features and benefits, making them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare steel cord and fabric conveyor belts to determine which one is better for specific use cases.

Steel Cord Conveyor Belt

Steel cord conveyor belts are composed of steel cables embedded in a rubber compound. These cables provide high tensile strength and minimal elongation, making them suitable for long-distance, heavy-duty applications. Steel cord conveyor belts are known for their excellent impact resistance, high load-carrying capacity, and good troughability.

One of the main advantages of steel cord conveyor belts is their superior strength. The steel cords provide high tensile strength, allowing the belt to handle heavy loads over long distances without stretching or sagging. This makes steel cord conveyor belts ideal for applications that require high belt tension and minimal stretch, such as mining, aggregate, and bulk material handling.

Another key benefit of steel cord conveyor belts is their excellent impact resistance. The steel cords act as a protective barrier against sharp and heavy materials, reducing the risk of belt damage and downtime. This makes steel cord conveyor belts a reliable choice for handling abrasive materials, large-sized rocks, and heavy loads.

Steel cord conveyor belts also offer good troughability, allowing the belt to conform to the shape of the conveyor system and carry materials efficiently. This feature helps prevent material spillage and ensures smooth operation of the conveyor system. Additionally, steel cord conveyor belts are fire-resistant, making them suitable for applications where fire safety is a concern.

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Despite their numerous advantages, steel cord conveyor belts also have some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is their higher initial cost compared to fabric conveyor belts. The steel cords and specialized manufacturing process contribute to the higher cost of steel cord conveyor belts. Additionally, steel cord conveyor belts are more difficult to repair in the field, requiring specialized equipment and expertise.

In summary, steel cord conveyor belts are a durable and reliable option for heavy-duty applications that require high tensile strength, impact resistance, and good troughability. While they may have a higher initial cost and maintenance requirements, the superior performance of steel cord conveyor belts makes them a preferable choice for demanding industrial environments.

Fabric Conveyor Belt

Fabric conveyor belts are made from multiple layers of fabric material, such as polyester, nylon, or cotton, coated with rubber or PVC. These belts are lightweight, flexible, and economical, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Fabric conveyor belts are commonly used in industries such as food processing, packaging, and light to medium-duty material handling.

One of the main advantages of fabric conveyor belts is their flexibility. The fabric layers allow the belt to bend and flex around pulleys and curves, making them ideal for applications that require conveyor systems with complex layouts. Fabric conveyor belts are also lightweight, making them easier to install and handle compared to steel cord conveyor belts.

Another key benefit of fabric conveyor belts is their cost-effectiveness. Fabric conveyor belts are generally more affordable than steel cord conveyor belts, making them a budget-friendly option for many industries. The simple construction and materials used in fabric conveyor belts contribute to their lower cost, making them a popular choice for light to medium-duty applications.

Fabric conveyor belts are also easier to repair and maintain compared to steel cord conveyor belts. In the event of damage or wear, fabric conveyor belts can be easily patched or spliced in the field without the need for specialized equipment. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs, making fabric conveyor belts a convenient choice for industries with limited resources.

Despite their advantages, fabric conveyor belts have some limitations. One of the main drawbacks is their lower tensile strength compared to steel cord conveyor belts. Fabric belts are not as strong or durable as steel cord belts, making them less suitable for heavy-duty applications with high belt tension and demanding operating conditions. Additionally, fabric conveyor belts may have lower impact resistance and wear resistance than steel cord conveyor belts, limiting their suitability for abrasive materials and harsh environments.

In summary, fabric conveyor belts are a versatile and cost-effective option for light to medium-duty applications that require flexibility, affordability, and ease of maintenance. While they may not offer the same level of strength and durability as steel cord conveyor belts, fabric conveyor belts are a practical choice for industries with moderate material handling requirements.

Choosing the Right Conveyor Belt

When deciding between steel cord and fabric conveyor belts, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of your application. The following factors can help you determine which type of conveyor belt is better suited for your needs:

- Operating Conditions: Consider the operating environment, including temperature, moisture, abrasion, and impact levels. Steel cord conveyor belts are better suited for harsh conditions with heavy loads and abrasive materials, while fabric conveyor belts are suitable for lighter-duty applications with moderate operating conditions.

- Belt Tension: Evaluate the required belt tension for your application. Steel cord conveyor belts offer higher tensile strength and minimal stretch, making them suitable for high-tension applications. Fabric conveyor belts are better suited for applications with lower belt tension requirements.

- Maintenance and Repair: Assess the ease of maintenance and repair for each type of conveyor belt. Fabric conveyor belts are easier to repair in the field, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Steel cord conveyor belts may require specialized equipment and expertise for repairs, affecting overall maintenance requirements.

- Cost Considerations: Compare the initial cost, maintenance costs, and overall lifecycle costs of steel cord and fabric conveyor belts. While steel cord conveyor belts have a higher initial cost, they may offer better long-term performance and durability. Fabric conveyor belts are a more budget-friendly option for industries with limited resources.

- Application Requirements: Determine the specific requirements of your application, such as load capacity, material handling conditions, and safety considerations. Choose the conveyor belt type that best meets these requirements and ensures efficient and reliable operation of your conveyor system.

By considering these factors and evaluating the benefits and limitations of steel cord and fabric conveyor belts, you can determine which type of belt is better suited for your application. Ultimately, the right conveyor belt choice will depend on your specific needs, operating conditions, and budget constraints, ensuring optimal performance and productivity in your material handling operations.

In conclusion, both steel cord and fabric conveyor belts offer unique advantages and benefits for different industrial applications. Steel cord conveyor belts are preferred for heavy-duty, long-distance applications that require high tensile strength and impact resistance. Fabric conveyor belts are suitable for light to medium-duty applications that require flexibility, affordability, and ease of maintenance. By understanding the characteristics and performance of each type of conveyor belt, you can make an informed decision on which is better for your specific use case. Choose wisely to optimize the efficiency and reliability of your conveyor system and achieve the desired results in your material handling operations.