The Advantages of Modular Plastic Conveyor Belts from mk

If you’re in the market for a new belt conveyor system, you’ve got a lot to consider. One of the most important questions is what kind of belting to use. There are a number of different options when it comes to conveyor belts, and each has its own benefits for specific applications.

Some of the most common options are called modular plastic conveyor belts. As the name suggests, modular plastic conveyor belts are made with a series of several long, narrow modular plastic segments which are interlinked to form a continuous belt.

While this configuration may seem cumbersome at first, it offers a number of benefits over alternatives like standard flat belt conveyors. Keep reading to learn more.

The Benefits of Modular Plastic Belts for Conveyor Systems

One of the primary advantages of using modular plastic belts lies in their durability. Fabric belts can sometimes tear, which isn’t a possibility for a modular belt’s hard plastic segments. Plastic’s durability over other belt materials also gives modular belts an edge over many alternatives in terms of load capacity, resistance to wear, and resilience in harsh environments. 

What’s more, if a continuous flat belt is damaged, the entire belt needs to be replaced; this is sometimes costly and usually inconvenient.

If a modular belt is damaged it’s possible to replace only the broken plastic segments while leaving the bulk of the belt intact, thereby reducing repair costs and downtime.

For applications where a rigorous standard of cleanliness or sterilization, like food processing or pharmaceuticals, plastic modular conveyors are more easily cleaned and sanitize than many alternatives, and are ideal for reducing the potential for standing liquid and bacteria retention.

And, while these benefits might be shared with other materials like stainless steel or fiberglass, plastic is a more affordable alternative to these types of specialty belting.

Modular Plastic Belt Conveyors from mk North America

mk North America offers modular plastic belt conveyors in a variety of configurations to suite many applications and needs.

The aluminum-frame MBF-P 2040 is a versatile option ideal for pre-packaged food, heavy material handling, and other applications. For similar applications where space is an issue, the curved KMF-P 2040 is great for taking materials around corners.

For applications requiring sanitary conveyor systems, as with direct food contact or pharmaceuticals, our CleanMove line of stainless steel conveyors offers many options including the BISSC-Certified* CMP-400. Stainless steel-frame conveyors are also well-suited for high temperatures and for applications where contact with caustic chemicals is necessary.

For applications requiring elevation changes, z-frame options like  KFM-2040 is a great options.

mk also offers a wide variety of belting materials to handle diverse applications – belting materials available include flat-top, textured, FDA-approved, and more.  

No matter what your material handling needs, mk North America has a conveyor system for you – whether it’s a standard system or a custom solution. Get in touch by calling (860) 769-5500 or by filling out the form below.

*Important: BISSC was purchased by The BEAG Group, making the BISSC standard no longer applicable.

---