Common Carcass Materials of Conveyor Belt

Carcass materials used in belt manufacture in recent years are listed as follows. Given is the common name, the composition and some general comments about each material. (Please note their characteristics and current position in the market place).

Cotton / Natural Cellulose Composition

Only natural fiber used to any great extent in belting manufacture. Increases instrength when wet. High moisture absorption - consequently, poor dimensional stability. Susceptible to mildew attack. At one time represented 80% of the raw fiber input into belt manufacture. Currently less than 5%.

Rayon / Regenerated Cellulose Composition

Slightly stronger than cotton, but tensile strength is lowered by water. Chemical resistance similar to cotton. High moisture absorption - consequently, poor dimensional stability. Susceptible to mildew attack. Almost nonexistent in conveyor belt today.

Glass

Very high strength compared to rayon. Low elongation. Mainly used in high temperature applications. Poor flex life. Limited use in belt manufacture currently.

Nylon / Polyamide

High strength, high elongation, good resistance to abrasion, fatigue and impact. While moisture absorption not as high as cotton, it will absorb up to 10% of its own weight in moisture. Consequently, poor dimensional stability.

Polyester

High strength, exceptionally good abrasion and fatigue resistance. Extremely low moisture absorption - consequently good dimensional stability. Unaffected by mildew.

Steel

Steel Used where high strength and extremely low stretch are a necessity. A small amount of woven steel carcass is found in today's market. However, more steel is used in steel cord-like belt constructions.

Kevlar Aramid

Aramid (the material used in flak jackets and bullet-proof vests) has twice the strength of steel, with stretch characteristics roughly halfway between steel and polyester. It is significantly lower in weight than steel and will not rust. Currently cost and availability of materials limit the use of Aramid in belt carcass construction.

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