Full definition
Rubber sealing strips installed along both sides of the conveyor loading zone (also called skirting rubber or edge sealing) to contain material on the belt and prevent spillage. The skirting presses lightly against the belt edges, creating a dynamic seal as the belt moves. Material: natural rubber or SBR, 40-60 Shore A hardness, 6-12 mm thick. Must be soft enough to seal without excessive belt wear, yet stiff enough to resist material pressure. Length: extends from the loading chute through the settling zone (typically 2-3x belt width). Clamping system: adjustable brackets allow vertical and lateral adjustment as the rubber wears. Dual-seal designs use a primary (inner) lip plus an outer dust seal. Replace when wear reaches 50% of original thickness or when material escapes. Per CEMA and Martin Engineering guidelines. Poor skirting causes material buildup under the conveyor, creating housekeeping problems, belt damage, and idler seizure. Brands: Martin, Flexco, Sandvik.