Full definition
Textile-reinforced belts are a crucial component in the field of power transmission, particularly in the transportation of materials across various industrial applications. These belts derive their tensile strength from one or more layers of woven textile fabric that are impregnated with rubber, creating a durable and flexible product. The most commonly used fabric types include EP (polyester warp/nylon weft), NN (nylon/nylon), PP (polyester/polyester), and cotton, with EP being the predominant choice due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and low elongation properties. The classification of these belts is based on the number of plies and the strength per ply per unit width, exemplified by a designation such as EP400/3, indicating three plies with a total breaking strength of 400 N/mm.
The strength range of textile-reinforced belts typically spans from 160 N/mm to 3150 N/mm, making them suitable for a wide array of applications. Working tension generally operates at 8-10% of the belt's breaking strength, ensuring optimal performance while minimizing wear. The elongation at working load differs among fabric types, with EP exhibiting 1.5-2% and NN showing 2-3%, critical factors in applications where dimensional stability is a concern. The construction of these belts also includes top and bottom rubber covers, which protect the carcass from environmental factors, with thicknesses varying from 2 to 10 mm on the top and 1.5 to 4 mm on the bottom, depending on the specific application.
Moreover, ply adhesion is a vital consideration for the longevity and performance of textile-reinforced belts, with a minimum requirement of 3.5 N/mm as per ISO 252. Compliance with standards such as ISO 14890 and DIN 22102 further ensures reliability and safety in industrial environments. These belts can also be tailored with various cover compounds to resist abrasion, oil, heat, fire, and even food-grade applications, catering to diverse operational needs. Splicing methods, including mechanical, cold, or hot vulcanized techniques, are employed to maintain the integrity of the belt during use, allowing for easy repair and extended service life.