Why Consider Metal Belts for Your Application?

Engineers who specify metal belts have options available to them that they do not have when using other products or materials. Some important features and benefits are discussed below.

HIGH STRENGTH-TO-WEIGHT RATIO:

This is an advantage in practically every application where high strength, light weight, or both are important.

DURABILITY:

Metal belts can withstand sustained exposure to extremes of temperature, hostile environments, and vacuum. A variety of alloys may be used, each with its own resistance to chemicals, humidity, and corrosion. Engineers generally select a belt material based on physical properties, availability, and cost.

NO LUBRICATION:

Unlike the links of a chain, a metal belt is a single element and, therefore, does not generate any component friction that requires lubrication. This reduces system maintenance, improves reliability, and keeps the system clean.

NONSTRETCHABLE:

Spring steels with a high modulus of elasticity make metal belts virtually nonstretchable as compared to other belt types and chain. This makes them ideal in high performance applications for precision positioning.

SMOOTH OPERATION:

Metal belts are free from the pulsation of chordal action often seen in other belt types and chain. This results in precise translation of the control system motion profile.

ACCURATE AND REPEATABLE:

Metal timing belts can be fabricated with a pitch accuracy of ±0.0005 inches station to station. This high degree of precision is extremely valuable in designing indexing, positioning, or processing equipment.

GOOD THERMAL AND ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY:

Metal belts can transmit energy in the form of heat, cold, and electricity.

NO STATIC BUILD UP:

Metal belts discharge static electricity, a crucial capability in the manufacture of electronic components such as integrated circuits and surface mount devices.

CLEAN:

Unlike HTD or flat neoprene belts, metal belts do not generate particulate and are ideal for food and pharmaceutical processing.

CLEAN ROOM COMPATIBLE:

Metal belts do not require lubricants and will not generate dust that would introduce foreign substances into clean room environments. Additionally, they may be sterilized in an autoclave.

PRECISE CONSTRUCTION:

Edges are smooth and dimensions are tightly toleranced.