Conveyor Belt Types and Sizes

Choosing between conveyor belt types comes down to what you move, how far, how fast and how heavy. The wrong belt wears out early or stretches, and the right one runs for years. ConveyorBelting.co.za is a free quote-request service. Tell us your material, width and length, and we pass your request to independent suppliers who recommend a suitable belt and quote directly. We are not a belt supplier ourselves. This guide explains the main types, conveyor belt sizes and specifications, so your request is complete.

Main conveyor belt types

Textile-reinforced rubber belts: EP (polyester and nylon) or NN carcass, the general-purpose choice, made to SANS 1173
Steel-cord belts: high tension and long distance, made to SANS 1366 or ISO 15236 / DIN 22131
Fire-resistant belts: used underground in coal, tested to SANS 971 and ISO 340
PVC and PU belts: light duty and food-grade work
Modular plastic belts: hygienic packing and food lines

Standard conveyor belt widths

The standard conveyor belt widths run from 450 to 2400 mm. Common South African widths are 600, 750, 900, 1050, 1200, 1350, 1500 and 1800 mm. Width depends on the capacity needed, the lump size and the pulley and idler frame already installed. A belt must also suit the existing troughing angle, usually 20, 35 or 45 degrees. Replacing a belt on an existing conveyor means matching the current width exactly. Measure the belt itself rather than trusting old drawings, as belts are sometimes replaced with a slightly different width over the years. Wider belts need larger pulleys, and troughing idlers sized for the belt, such as 102, 127, 152, 165 or 178 mm diameter rollers.

Strength, plies and cover grades

Belt strength appears as a marking such as EP630/4: a polyester-nylon carcass of 630 N/mm with four plies. Steel-cord belts use ST ratings, from ST1000 to ST5400. The conveyor belt specifications also cover cover thickness, top and bottom, and the cover grade. SANS 1173 grades M and N, DIN grades W, X, Y and Z and ISO grades H, D and L are rated on abrasion resistance, tested to ISO 4649 or DIN 53516. Sharp or heavy lump needs thicker, tougher covers. Fine, dry or sticky material needs less. Using a heavier belt than the duty requires only adds weight and cost, so a supplier should match the grade to your material.

Conveyor belt dimensions to supply

For a quote, a supplier needs the conveyor belt dimensions that matter: width, overall length in metres, number of plies or the ST rating, and cover thicknesses. Also state belt speed, incline, material type and size, and how the belt will be joined. A splice adds length, so quote the loop length or the pulley centres instead of guessing. If you are unsure, send photos of the belt edge, any printed markings and the take-up arrangement. A good supplier can often identify the type from these, and will visit the site to confirm before quoting a large order.

Comparing conveyor belt types and sizes quotes

Prices change with rubber and steel costs, the exchange rate and stock levels. When quotes arrive, check:

Exact specification: width, carcass and strength, cover grade and thickness, or the part number, size and standard.
Quantity and units: per metre, per roll, per item or per set, and any minimum order or cutting charge.
Lead time: ex stock, or imported or made to order, and how long that takes.
Delivery and VAT: transport to site, offloading of heavy rolls, whether VAT is included and how long the price holds.

What to include in your request

Belt width in mm and total length in metres
Material carried, lump size and abrasiveness
Existing ply or ST rating and cover thickness, if known
Belt speed, incline and conveyor length
Splice type and who will fit the belt

Frequently asked questions

Are you a conveyor belt supplier?

No. ConveyorBelting.co.za is a free quote-request service. We pass your belt requirements to independent suppliers, who recommend a suitable type and quote directly. There is no charge for the request and no obligation to accept any quote.

How do I measure my existing belt?

Measure the width across the belt in millimetres and the thickness at the edge. For length, measure the loop around the pulleys, or add up the pulley centres and wrap lengths. Photos of the belt edge and any markings printed on the cover help a supplier identify the type.

What does a rating such as EP630/4 mean?

EP means a polyester and nylon carcass. The 630 is the belt strength in N/mm of width, and the 4 is the number of plies. It does not state the cover thickness or grade, so ask for those separately. Your supplier can match the rating to your tension and load.

Which type suits long-distance conveying?

Long overland conveyors with high tension normally use steel-cord belts, because they stretch very little and carry more per belt width. Shorter plant and quarry conveyors usually run textile-reinforced rubber. A supplier or conveyor designer should confirm the choice from your tonnage and layout.