Conveyor belts are the lifeline of many industrial operations. When a belt breaks or needs replacing, knowing how to join it safely and effectively can save hours of downtime. In this guide, we’ll walk through the main joining methods and provide step-by-step SOPs for the most common types: mechanical joints and vulcanized splices (hot and cold).
Overview: Conveyor Belt Joining Methods
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Joint | Uses fasteners like metal hinges, clips, or plates. Ideal for quick field fixes. |
| Cold Vulcanization | Joins belt ends using adhesive bonding—no heat required. |
| Hot Vulcanization | Uses heat + pressure with a vulcanizing press for a durable, seamless bond. |
| Finger/Step Joint | Uses precision-cut joints, usually on PU/PVC belts, bonded via heat or glue. |
| Hook/Clipper Joint | Lightweight belts joined with metal hooks pinned together. |
Pro Tip: Always choose your method based on belt material, application load, and downtime tolerance.
SOP: Mechanical Fastener Joint
Tools & Materials
- Belt cutter, square, and skiver
- Mechanical fastener kit (Flexco, Clip N Lock, etc.)
- Installation tool, clamp, and joining pin
- PPE: gloves, goggles
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Power off and lockout the conveyor system.
- Square and clean both belt ends using a skiver or guide.
- Mark hole positions for fasteners accurately.
- Install fasteners using the tool and clamp.
- Align both ends and insert the hinge pin or rod.
- Check tension and alignment.
- Restore power and test the splice under load.
SOP: Hot Vulcanized Joint (for Rubber Belts)
Required Equipment
- Vulcanizing press (hydraulic/pneumatic)
- Splicing rubber, adhesive, cover stock
- Buffing/grinding tools, PPE, thermometer
Steps
- Lockout and secure the belt system.
- Cut both belt ends with a 22° bias cut or step cut.
- Buff, clean, and prep splice area.
- Apply cement and layering rubber (skims and covers).
- Load into vulcanizing press; apply heat (145–160°C) and pressure (10–12 bar).
- Cure for 30–45 min depending on belt thickness.
- Cool down, release pressure slowly, and trim excess.
SOP: Cold Vulcanized Joint
Materials & Tools
- Cold vulcanizing adhesive (e.g., SC2000)
- Grinder/buffer
- Clamp, scraper, and roller
- Gloves, mask, and solvent cleaner
Steps
- Cut and clean belt ends (square or step cut).
- Buff surfaces and wipe with solvent.
- Apply adhesive to both ends and wait 5–10 min for tack.
- Join and roll the belt with firm pressure.
- Clamp and allow curing (4–6 hrs; full strength in 24 hrs).
- Inspect bond before restarting conveyor.
General Safety Checklist
- Always lockout power before working.
- Wear eye protection and cut-resistant gloves.
- Use adhesives in ventilated areas.
- Follow manufacturer’s curing and pressure specs.
Bonus: Which Method Should You Choose?
| Condition | Best Method |
|---|---|
| Emergency repair | Mechanical Joint |
| Heavy-duty, long-term use | Hot Vulcanization |
| Medium-duty, fast cure | Cold Vulcanization |
| Food industry belts (PU/PVC) | Finger/Step Joint |