What are the methods of conveyor belt splicing? What are the characteristics of each? How to choose?

What are the methods of conveyor belt splicing? What are the characteristics of each? How to choose?

Introduction: Most friends who work with conveyor belts are aware that there are three main methods of belt splicing: mechanical splicing, cold vulcanizing splicing, and hot vulcanizing splicing. Which method should be chosen for belt splicing? The decision depends on the type of belt (e.g., standard fabric belts, steel cord belts), the scale of the equipment, and the application scenario (e.g., conveying capacity, environmental humidity). To present the information more clearly, today we will briefly introduce these three methods:

01 Mechanical Splicing

Working Principle: Uses metal belt fasteners or bolts for physical connection.
Key Features:

• Simplest operation and fastest execution.

• Gaps at the joint, prone to wear and material leakage.

• Lower strength and shorter service life.

Typical Applications: 

Suitable for small-scale, light-duty, or temporary conveying equipment, as well as situations requiring quick repairs.

02 Cold Vulcanizing Splicing Method

Working Principle: Uses specialized adhesives (such as neoprene) for bonding at room temperature.

Key Features:

• Requires no large equipment, and the process is simpler than hot vulcanizing.

• Joint strength and service life are superior to mechanical splicing.

• Bonding quality is highly influenced by environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dust) and operator skill.

Typical Applications: Suitable for medium-duty conveyor equipment, particularly in controlled environments such as workshops.

03 Hot Vulcanizing Splicing Method

Working Principle: Uses a vulcanizing press to apply pressure and heat to the splice, causing the rubber to undergo chemical cross-linking and achieve a "seamless" integration.

Key Features:

• Highest splice strength (reaching 80%–90% of the belt’s original strength), very smooth surface, and excellent sealing.

• Most complex process, requiring specialized equipment and longer operation time.

• Longest service life, which can last several years.

Typical Applications: Suitable for large-scale, heavy-duty, and critical continuous operation equipment (such as main underground haulage belts in mines, port terminal lines), as well as steel cord belts.

04 Process Essentials of Each Splicing Method

Each method has specific operational requirements. Understanding these will help you assess the feasibility of implementation:

Mechanical Splicing: The key is to select the correct belt fastener model and ensure smooth installation to avoid damaging the equipment during operation.

Cold Vulcanizing Splicing: The core lies in the preparation of the splicing surface and the application of adhesive. The belt ends need to be cut into a stepped shape to increase the bonding area, followed by careful grinding and cleaning. The adhesive (such as a neoprene mixture) is applied in multiple coats, and the surfaces are pressed together once the adhesive has evaporated to a "tacky but non-sticky" state.

Hot Vulcanizing Splicing: This is the most specialized process. Taking the splicing of steel cord belts as an example, the main steps include:

1. Cutting and Grinding: The rubber and steel cords at the splice are stripped in layers, and the cord ends and rubber base are ground into slopes and rough surfaces.

2. Cleaning and Cement Application: After thorough cleaning with gasoline or similar solvent, rubber cement is applied evenly.

3. Arrangement and Overlap: The steel cords are arranged and overlapped according to specifications.

4. Vulcanizing: The splice is placed in a vulcanizing press and held under specific pressure (e.g., 1.0–1.4 MPa) and temperature (140–150°C) for a set period to allow chemical cross-linking to occur.

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05 How to Choose the correct Splicing Method

You can select the appropriate method based on your specific needs by considering the following guidelines:

1. Identify Your Primary Requirement

• Fastest repair → Prioritize mechanical splicing.

• Long-lasting durability and smooth operation → Prioritize hot vulcanizing splicing.

• A compromise between simplicity and strength, with suitable indoor working conditions → Consider cold vulcanizing splicing.

2. Consider Belt Type and Operating Scenario

• Standard fabric conveyor belts: All three methods are applicable; choose based on the above requirements.

• High-tensile steel cord belts: Hot vulcanizing splicing is mandatory—this is essential for ensuring safe operation.

• Critical, continuously operating main transport lines (e.g., underground coal mine main belts): Hot vulcanizing splicing is strongly recommended; the initial investment ensures long-term stability.

• Harsh environments such as wet or dusty conditions: The sealing integrity of hot vulcanizing splicing offers clear advantages over cold vulcanizing and mechanical splicing.

3. Assess Your Own Capabilities and Constraints

• Equipment and skill level: Hot vulcanizing requires specialized vulcanizing presses and trained personnel; cold vulcanizing demands a certain level of operational skill; mechanical splicing is the simplest.

• Budget and time: Hot vulcanizing involves higher initial costs and longer execution time (a single splice may take several hours), but long-term maintenance costs are low. Mechanical splicing is the opposite.