Can we imagine operations in large manufacturing industries without conveyor belts? That seems impossible, and that’s how conveyor belts have become important. There are different 輸送帶種類 available, each differing in material. One of those is the EP, which prompts the question: What is an EP conveyor belt?
You’ll see people praising the EP conveyor belt mainly for its durability. What makes these conveyor belts so special and worthy of applause? In this article, I’ll discuss everything about EP conveyor belts, their construction, and key advantages. You’ll learn why I consider this belt the first-priority pick in most cases. Let’s begin!
What is an EP Conveyor Belt?
The EP conveyor belt type is based on the materials used in its construction.
EP conveyor belts are made of two materials: polyester and nylon. The use of nylon and polyester makes the conveyor belt’s carcass (core) robust and impact-resistant. The presence of nylon ensures these belts are flexible without compromising on strength or durability.
In fact, the name of this conveyor belt represents its material. E in the name represents Ethylene (polyester). On the other hand, P represents Polyamide (Nylon). The combination of these two materials makes the core of conveyor belts durable. Remember, these two materials are only used in the carcass or core, not in external or bottom covers.
Interestingly, these two materials (polyester and nylon) are woven together to form the conveyor belt carcass. How? The polyester yarn is woven in the warp direction, meaning the yarns run lengthwise. On the other hand, nylon yarns are woven in the weft (widthwise) direction. The weaving of these yarns forms the core (carcass).
There are different types of EP conveyor belts available in the market. All those types have the same carcass made of polyester and nylon. However, their external layer is made differently, i.e., oil-resistant, heat-resistant, and so on. The names of those types are as follows:
- Oil-Resistant EP Belt
- Heat-Resistant EP Belt
- Cold-Resistant EP Belt
- Flame Retardant EP Belt
Remember, each industry requires a specific type of conveyor belt. For the mining sector, the conveyor belt’s outer layer must be very rugged. Similarly, in a cement plant, the external layers should be abrasion-resistant. We can induce specific properties to the conveyor belt by tweaking its external layers. The carcass generally remains the same in all types of EP conveyor belts.
Construction of EP Conveyor Belts
In the previous article, I discussed conveyor belt structures in detail. You should read that article in case you don’t have the know-how about the structure of belts. In the section below, I will discuss the constructions of only EP conveyor belts.
1- Outer Cover of EP Conveyor Belt
The outer cover is part of the EP conveyor belt, which remains in contact with the transported material. We generally put luggage or material on this external layer. On the EP conveyor belt, the top layer is usually made of rubber. However, manufacturers typically add additives to achieve the desired properties of this rubber.
Have you heard of heat-resistant or oil-resistant EP conveyor belts? Those types differ in their outer layers. The additives added to this rubber make it heat-resistant, as seen in heat-resistant conveyor belts. Similarly, this rubber is made oil-resistant and used in oil-resistant EP conveyor belts.
快速亮點： You’ll see many EP conveyor belts with different properties and qualities. Those properties come due to this external rubber layer. A cold-resistant rubber gauge will make the conveyor belt cold-resistant. Similarly, flame-retardant rubber will make the conveyor belt flame-retardant. Those properties are not due to the polyester or nylon used in carcasses.
2- Core or Carcass of EP Conveyor Belts
This is a significant part of the EP conveyor belt, which distinguishes it from other types of belts. This carcass or core is the middle portion of the belt. It remains sandwiched between the external (top) and bottom layers. As I said earlier, polyester and nylon are used to make this core. Interestingly, these materials (yarns) are woven together to create a robust structure.
During weaving, the polyester yarn runs vertically (lengthwise). On the other hand, nylon runs in the horizontal (widthwise) direction. This weaving process makes the conveyor belt strong, rigid, and impact-resistant. The use of polyester makes the carcass strong and sturdy. However, this material reduces flexibility, which is also essential for belt durability.
The presence of nylon adds a touch of flexibility to the conveyor belts. It won’t be wrong to say that a combination of both nylon and polyester makes the carcass top-notch. It becomes firm, but not too rigid, flexible, but not too loose, and has impact resistance. Additionally, the top and bottom layers (made of rubber) also enhance the protection of this carcass.
3- Bottom Layer of EP Conveyor Belts
This is the last layer of the EP conveyor belt, and it remains in contact with the lower parts. Those parts include conveyor belts, rollers, and pulleys. This bottom part generally rubs against these rollers and pulleys. If this part is missing, the EP belt carcass will directly contact the rollers and pulleys. The bottom layer of the EP belt is also made of rubber.
However, the rubber used to make this layer is more durable and sturdy. As a result, this bottom layer can withstand consistent friction and remain in good condition. Just as the top layer, the bottom layer of the EP conveyor belt also has specific properties. Those include heat resistance, cold resistance, and extreme abrasion resistance.
This bottom layer is most important for the carcass’s security. How? When the conveyor belt runs, it produces some vibration. These shocks or vibrations can affect the integrity of the carcass. However, the bottom layer is designed to absorb these shocks, preventing the carcass from being affected. Remember, a strong carcass means a durable and long-lasting EP belt.
Some other parts of conveyor belts are common to all types. Those include skim coatings, adhesives used, and frames. These parts have no impact on the uniqueness or quality of the conveyor belts. Remember, the EP conveyor belts are unique because of their carcass made of a polyester and nylon combination.
Advantages of EP Conveyor Belts
EP conveyor belts perform a lot better than regular conveyor belts. The credit for EP belts’ better performance goes to their key materials, polyester and nylon. In the section below, I’ll discuss some key benefits of EP conveyor belts.
1- High Tensile Strength
The EP conveyor belts come with higher tensile strength. The higher tensile strength means these belts don’t break when pulled. Additionally, they don’t stretch much and remain in good condition under tension. You can use them to transport heavy-duty material on these EP conveyor belts. They won’t stretch much or deform, even when carrying heavy loads or subjected to harsh forces. The higher tensile strength also makes EP belts resistant to general shocks and impacts.
2- Low Elongation & Load Capacity
As I said earlier, EP conveyor belts are made from polyester, a material with low elongation. It means when you pull this belt, it won’t stretch, and its size will remain the same. This makes the conveyor belt durable in the long run and won’t face sagging (common due to elongation). Additionally, the EP conveyor belts have excellent load capacity. You can transport heavy-duty materials and loads over long distances.
3- Good Flexibility & Durability
Along with polyester, EP conveyor belts also contain nylon. As you know, nylon stands out due to its flexibility. So, it makes the EP conveyor belt a bit flexible, which is essential. Remember, if the conveyor belt is rigid, it won’t move on pulleys smoothly and will break when moved. Additionally, the combination of polyester and nylon makes the EP belt very durable. They are shock-resistant and tough. A high-quality EP conveyor belt can last over 10 years with proper care.
4- Excellent Impact Resistance
The EP conveyor belts have excellent impact resistance. But what does it mean? Impact-resistant means these belts can withstand shocks or harsh use. You can transport harsh materials on these EP conveyor belts. The warp-and-weft weaving of polyester and nylon fibers is the reason for this impact resistance. As a result, the conveyor belts are very durable and long-lasting, even under harsh use.
5- Cost-Effective & Affordable
The EP conveyor belts offer an excellent balance of performance, durability, and pricing. You’ll see many 鋼索輸送帶 whose performance is similar to EP belts. However, steel-cord belts are much more expensive than EP belts. The primary reason behind the popularity of EP conveyor belts is their affordability. Even a workshop starting anew can easily afford these belts and thereby enhance its productivity.
Applications of EP Conveyor Belts
These conveyor belts are widely used across different industries. In fact, their use is standard across mining, construction, and the food sector. Why? This is mainly due to the excellent durability, shock absorption, and affordability of these EP conveyors. Here is the table showing various applications of EP belts in different sectors:
| 產業 | Application of EP belts |
| Mining | Transporting coal and stones |
| Cement | Carrying limestone and clinkers |
| Steel | Moving iron ore, and metal scrap |
| Construction | Conveying sand, gravel, and aggregates |
| Agriculture | Handling grains, seeds, and fertilizers |
| Ports & Terminals | Loading and unloading bulk materials |
This table only mentions the most common uses of EP conveyor belts. Some manufacturers also use EP belts in chemical processing. They are so strong that they can easily transport the harsh chemicals from one location to another. How can we forget their use in food processing? In simple terms, these EP belts are used across all industries due to their durability.
總結
Undoubtedly, EP conveyor belts are of utmost value due to their ability to handle certain goods. Their carcass material (polyester and nylon) makes them strong, durable, and flexible. Remember, these EP belts are similar to other types except for their carcass composition. The external and bottom layers of all belts are typically made of rubber.
However, it is the core (carcass) that makes the difference in these EP conveyor belts. Should you consider EP belts for your specific use? Yes, I recommend these belts for the advantages I discussed above. However, you should choose the reliable conveyor belt manufacturers and suppliers when buying EP belts. This will help you buy a belt that is of the highest quality.