All conveyor belts must be joined in a loop before use. Therefore, the quality of conveyor belt joints directly affects the lifespan of the conveyor belt and the smooth operation of the conveyor line. Common conveyor belt jointing methods include mechanical joints, cold bonding joints, and hot vulcanization joints.
Mechanical joints
Generally, these use belt buckles. This method is convenient, efficient, and economical, but the joints are inefficient and prone to damage, which can negatively impact the lifespan of the conveyor belt. This method is generally used for joints in PVC and PVG solid-core flame-retardant and antistatic conveyor belts, typically below grade 8. The snap-fit joint is equivalent to 28%-45% of the conveyor belt's strength.
Cold bonding joints
This method uses cold bonding adhesives. This method is more efficient and economical than mechanical joints and should produce better joint results. However, in practice, due to the difficulty in controlling the process conditions and the significant impact of the adhesive quality on the joint, it is not very reliable. Cold bonding adhesives are equivalent to 40%-55% of the conveyor belt's strength. Hot vulcanization has proven to be the most ideal joining method, ensuring high joint efficiency, stability, long joint life, and ease of use. However, it has disadvantages such as complex processes, high costs, and long joining times. Mechanical hot vulcanization bonding can achieve 60%-80% of the conveyor belt's inherent strength.