Choosing the right material for a conveyor belt or conveyor chain is one of the most critical decisions when specifying an efficient, durable, and safe transport system. Whether in sanitary, corrosive, abrasive environments or under high loads, the performance of the belt depends directly on the suitability of the material for the process.

In this third article of the Bellt Correntes technical series, we explain the key characteristics of the materials used in our conveyor chains and modular belts, highlighting their temperature limits, wear resistance, and chemical compatibility — and how each one applies to different industrial scenarios.

Why does material selection matter?
More than just supporting product weight, the material must resist environmental factors (humidity, chemicals, heat), maintain dimensional stability, slide efficiently over wear strips, and meet sanitary standards when required. It also directly affects the system’s service life and maintenance costs.

Plastic Materials Used in Conveyor Chains and Modular Belts
Bellt Correntes uses engineered thermoplastics selected for their technical performance. The main ones include:

Polypropylene (PP)
A lightweight, cost-effective material with excellent chemical resistance. Recommended for humid environments and moderate temperatures, such as food processing.
Recommended temperature range: –20°C to 100°C

Polyethylene (PE)
Excellent for applications involving mechanical impact or low temperatures. Low friction, ideal for handling delicate products.
Recommended temperature range: –50°C to 80°C

Acetal (POM)
High rigidity, excellent dimensional stability, and superior wear resistance. Ideal for dry environments with high mechanical demand.
Recommended temperature range: –40°C to 90°C

High-Performance Acetal (POM-AP)
Enhanced with solid lubricants (e.g., PTFE), reducing friction and wear. Recommended for high-load, high-speed, or long-distance conveyors.
Recommended temperature range: –40°C to 90°C

Glass-Fiber-Reinforced PP (PPFV)
Offers high chemical resistance, especially to sodium hypochlorite and industrial cleaners.
Recommended temperature range: –30°C to 125°C

Polyamide (PA / Nylon)
Excellent mechanical strength and abrasion resistance. Suitable for dynamic loads and abrasive environments.
Recommended temperature range: –10°C to 80°C

Metallic Materials for Conveyor Chains
Bellt’s conveyor chains are also available in stainless steel, ideal for high-temperature processes, chemical exposure, or heavy-duty applications.

Stainless Steel AISI 430 (Ferritic)
Work-hardened, corrosion-resistant with smooth surface finish. Common in filling lines.
Recommended temperature range: –40°C to 300°C

Stainless Steel AISI 431 (Martensitic)
Very high hardness and mechanical strength. Excellent for abrasive, high-speed applications.
Recommended temperature range: –40°C to 300°C

Stainless Steel AISI 304 (Austenitic)
Superior corrosion and chemical resistance. Widely used in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
Recommended temperature range: –40°C to 350°C

Conclusion
Choosing the right material for your conveyor belt or conveyor chain is a strategic decision. It must align with product type, environmental conditions, process demands, and applicable standards.

Bellt Correntes offers a wide range of engineered materials — both plastic and metallic — along with expert support to help you select the ideal solution.

Contact our technical team to discover which material delivers the best performance, safety, and durability for your operation.