What Are Coating Materials? 

Coating materials mean materials added to the belt surface to optimise its performance. There are various types of fabrics that can be used, each of them resulting in different qualities.

How to Choose a Coating Material?

Before you choose a specific coating material, define your needs. Here are just a few questions to take into consideration:

• What is the application of the belt?
• Is it exposed to chemical agents, like acids?
• What is the span of working temperatures?
• How does the process of cleaning look like?
• Is the surface exposed to abrasion? 
• How do you need the surface to perform?
• What products will be conveyed? 

What Are the Types of Coating Materials?

Synthetic belts rely on polymers as coating materials. Polymers are made of long, repeating chains of molecules and can be divided into 2 different groups:

• thermoplastics, which can melt under the heat,
• thermoset plastics, which retain their form and stay solid despite the heat.

The compounds that are most often used in coating materials include:

• PVC 

This acronym stands for polyvinyl chloride, which is a thermoplastic polymer. The material is well-known for its flexibility and durability. It is used for instance in Flexam coatings, where it is responsible for their good chemical resistance, ability to withstand exposure to heat and humidity, and flame retardancy in line with ISO 340. With such qualities, Flexam is the standard choice for such industries as airports, logistics, agriculture, fruit and vegetables, marble and ceramic. 

• Polyurethane 

Polyurethane coatings do not release harmful toxins or chemicals. The product conveyed is fully protected, which makes this solution suitable for various food applications. Polyurethane coatings can be either thermoplastic or thermoset. The former exhibit excellent resistance to grease, oils, and chemicals.

• Polyolefin 

Polyolefins coatings are the most versatile ones. They are characterised by exceptional resistance to chemicals, corrosion, UV, and impacts. They require less maintenance. You may find them most often in laboratory, food, and automotive sectors.

• Polyester

Polyester coatings are very strong and display high abrasion and cut resistance. The solution is valued for its resiliency and durability.

What Are the Functions of Coating Materials?

Coatings are used to improve the functionality of the belt surface. While the belt itself is designed to transmit large drive forces and have the lowest possible elongation, a suitable coating can upgrade its properties and bring the results you need. Different types of coatings have different qualities. By selecting a specific coating, you might:

• make the belt stronger, 
• enhance its resistance to chemicals, temperatures, abrasion, oils, greases, or solvents,
• improve the coefficient of friction, 
• influence the level of elasticity and grip, 
• extend the service life of the belt, making it more durable and wear-resistant, 
• reduce friction and noise emissions,
• avoid contamination and adhesives. 

Contact our experts

Do you wonder what coating material would be the best option for you? Contact our experts and tell us about your business. We’ll come up with the solution tailored specifically to your needs.