Full definition
The strongest and most durable method of joining conveyor belt ends, using heat (145-160°C), pressure (5-15 bar), and splice rubber/adhesives to chemically bond the belt ends into a virtually seamless joint. Achieves 90-100% of original belt breaking strength. For textile belts: stepped (finger) splice — plies are stripped back at calculated lengths, interleaved, and vulcanized. For steel cord belts: cable overlap splice — individual cables are laid in a specific pattern with specified overlap lengths per ISO 15236. Equipment: portable vulcanizing press (electric or steam-heated) sized to belt width, C-frames or water-cooled platens, temperature controller. Vulcanization cycle: heat to 145-150°C, hold 20-45 min depending on belt thickness, cool under pressure to below 60°C. Total time: 4-8 hours including preparation. Requires trained technicians and significant equipment investment. Per ISO 15236 (steel cord splice design), DIN 22102, and splice rubber manufacturer procedures (Rema Tip Top, Almex, Fenner Dunlop). The gold standard for permanent, high-performance splices.