Different types of conveyor belts are used to transport materials in manufacturing facilities, including food conveyor belts made of plastic, rubber, and stainless steel. Stainless steel is the most hygienic and adaptable to extreme temperatures, while rubber may trap bacteria. Thermoplastic belts are durable but may not withstand extreme temperatures.
Conveyor belts are used to transport materials between factories and other manufacturing facilities. Companies that produce or process food products rely on special types of conveyor belts to provide effective sanitation and easy cleaning. These food conveyor belts are also used in other facilities that place a high value on hygiene, including chemical and pharmaceutical companies. Different types of food conveyor belts often differ in material and construction, which can have a significant impact on cleanliness and contamination risk. These food conveyor belts include plastic, rubber and stainless steel belts.
Stainless steel has long been one of the most used materials to make food conveyor belts. While these belts tend to be more expensive than other types of conveyor systems, they are also one of the most hygienic materials of all belts. Stainless steel is non-toxic and odorless, so it’s unlikely to contaminate your food. It also features a very smooth, non-porous surface that is unlikely to trap bacteria and other microbes. Finally, this material is easy to clean and will not rust or corrode when exposed to water or cleaning solutions.
Another important advantage of stainless steel food conveyor belts is that this material can adapt to a wide range of temperatures. Food processing plants often use extreme heat or cold when transporting or manufacturing food. While plastic conveyors aren’t designed to withstand these temperatures, stainless steel won’t melt, warp, or crack in extremely cold or hot weather.
Rubber conveyor belts are another common option for food manufacturers. These belts tend to cost less than other food conveyor belts, but may not provide the same level of hygiene. While rubber can withstand frequent washing and exposure to a variety of chemicals, it can be more absorbent than metal belts. This means that bacteria and microbes can become trapped in small areas under the surface of the belt, resulting in a risk of contamination. Rubber conveyor belts are not typically used to process high risk items, such as meat, but can be used in other food processing applications.
Many modern manufacturers have turned to thermoplastic food conveyor belts. These belts are made using extremely hard and dense forms of plastic that can withstand rips, tears and holes. They are also very smooth and easy to clean, with a non-absorbent surface. One limitation to plastic conveyor belts is that they may not be able to withstand the extreme temperature ranges sometimes associated with food processing.
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