Full definition
Specialized portable or fixed equipment that applies uniform heat (145-160°C) and pressure (5-15 bar) across the full width of a conveyor belt splice during the vulcanization process. Construction: upper and lower heated platens (electric resistance or steam-heated), hydraulic or mechanical clamping (C-frames, crossbeams, or bladder pressure), and a temperature controller/timer. Portable presses: available for belt widths from 500 mm to 2,400 mm, transported to the splice site in sections; assembly time 1-4 hours depending on size. Water cooling systems reduce the cool-down phase from hours to 30-60 minutes. The press must provide uniform temperature (±3°C across the platen face) and uniform pressure to ensure complete vulcanization of the splice rubber. For steel cord belt splices, extra-long presses or overlapping sections are used for the extended splice lengths. Cycle: heat → hold (20-45 min at temperature) → cool under pressure to <60°C. Brands: Rema Tip Top (Europress), Almex (Amapress), Beltwin, Shaw Almex. Investment: $10,000-100,000+ depending on size and features.