Rubber Belting Pt. 1
Synthetic Rubber Elastomers for Conveyor Belting
Synthetic Rubber Elastomers for Conveyor Belting
Rubber is a durable elastomer that is commonly used in making conveyor belts. There are many different types of rubber, from natural to synthetic, and even some non-rubber elastomeric materials are modified to become rubber-like. A common example of the latter is Rubber-Modified Vinyl, or RMV, which is a PVC with additives to make it more resistant to abrasion and certain chemicals. In this article we will review two commonly used rubbers in conveyor belting: SBR and Nitrile.
Styrene-butadiene rubber, commonly known as SBR, is one of the more economical synthetic rubbers used in conveyor belting. It has a high abrasion resistance and flexibility, but lacks some of the performance characteristics of other types of rubber. SBR belts have a high coefficient of friction which provides suitable grip for many woodworking and box sealing applications. It is also common to see a rough top profile on these belts to provide additional release at the exit end of the conveyor.
Nitrile-butadiene rubber, aka NBR or simply Nitrile, is a synthetic rubber with enhanced oil-resistant properties. While nitrile is often used for tough oily applications, it can also be food grade and is frequently used in bakeries as it can receive product at warmer temperatures than conventional PVC or PU. Nitrile can also be treated with carboxylated acids to create a Carboxylated Nitrile, or XNBR. XNBR has increased tear-resistant and strength properties, but loses some of the flexibility of standard Nitrile.
To learn more about these and other conveyor belts, please use our contact form. You can also reach use via email at moc.gnitleblom@selas or by phone, 1-800-729-2358.