SYNTHETIC CONVEYOR BELTS: PVC VS. PU
Conveyor belts are an essential part of modern industrial processes. They ensure that materials are moved efficiently from point A to point B, with minimal friction and maximum reliability. An important choice companies have to make when selecting conveyor belts is the type of synthetic used: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PU (polyurethane). In this blog, we take a closer look at the properties of both materials and when you should choose PVC or PU conveyor belts.
PVC conveyor belts
PVC is a widely used material for conveyor belts because of its durability, versatility and cost-effectiveness. Here are some features of PVC conveyor belt
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Durability: PVC conveyor belts are generally sturdy and resistant to wear and tear. They handle heavy loads well and are suitable for use in various industries, such as food processing, logistics and agriculture.
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Chemical resistance: PVC conveyor belts are resistant to many chemicals, oils and greases, making them suitable for applications where exposure to these substances is unavoidable.
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Temperature range: The operating temperature of PVC conveyor belts is usually limited to around -10°C to +80°C, depending on the specific composition.
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Maintenance: These conveyor belts generally require less maintenance than some other materials, resulting in lower operating costs.
PU conveyor belts
Polyurethane (PU) is another popular material for conveyor belts, especially in applications where PVC may not suffice. Here are some properties of PU conveyor belts:
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Abrasion resistance: PU conveyor belts are highly abrasion resistant, even when used intensively. This makes them ideal for applications requiring long-term performance.
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Flexibility: PU conveyor belts are often more flexible than PVC conveyor belts, which makes them suitable for applications where flexibility and adaptability are needed.
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Hygiene: Due to their smooth surface, PU conveyor belts are easy to clean and disinfect, making them suitable for sectors such as food processing and pharmaceuticals.
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Temperature range: PU conveyor belts can generally be used in a wider temperature range than PVC, ranging from around -30°C to +60°C.
seLECTION CRITERIA PU VS. PVC CONVEYOR BELTS
There are several considerations when choosing between PVC and PU conveyor belts:
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Application: PVC conveyor belts are suitable for general use and offer good performance in various environments. PU conveyor belts are more suitable for specific applications where wear resistance and hygiene are crucial.
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Load: For heavy loads and harsh conditions, PVC conveyor belts are often a good choice because of their robustness. For applications where flexibility and abrasion resistance are important, PU conveyor belts may be preferred.
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Environmental and chemical exposure: If the conveyor belts are exposed to chemicals or extreme temperatures, PU may potentially outperform PVC..
Together we create
In short, the choice between PVC and PU conveyor belts depends on the specific requirements of your industry and application. Both materials offer unique advantages and it is important to make a thorough evaluation based on durability, maintenance needs, temperature range and operational conditions. By choosing the right conveyor, you can maximise the efficiency of your processes and optimise long-term costs.
Are you looking for a synthetic conveyor belt? Do you have questions about our synthetic conveyor belts or other questions about our products and services? Contact us!