Conveyor belts for extreme environments: high temperatures, humidity and chemicals

High temperatures, constant humidity or the presence of aggressive chemicals are just some of the extreme environments in which conveyor belts operate in industrial sectors and which test their durability and reliability. For this reason, choosing conveyor belts for extreme environments requires attention, experience and advanced technological solutions!

What are the main issues related to critical work environments? How does Crizaf respond with its products dedicated to the transportation and storage of goods? We delve into these issues in the article, analyzing the answers Crizaf offers in terms of performance materials, dedicated technologies and tailored solutions to ensure production continuity, safety and durability.

Extreme environments in industry: what does it really mean?

When we talk about extreme industrial environments, we are referring to operating conditions that deviate significantly from standard ones. Among the most critical factors we find:

Very high temperatures (above 100°C), as occurs in furnaces, foundries or thermal processing departments.

High humidity or constant presence of water, such as in washing processes, the food industry, or the fish industry.

Exposure to aggressive, acidic or alkaline chemicals, as is the case in the chemical, pharmaceutical or electroplating industries.

These are just some of the main elements that can cause premature wear, structural deformation, corrosion or loss of performance in machinery, compromising the functionality of conveyor belts and the safety of the production line. Hence the need to employ conveyor belts resistant to external agents, designed to ensure reliability even under the most extreme conditions and even when subjected to highly impactful external phenomena.

Advanced materials = maximum strength in conveyor belts

One of the main factors that determines the strength of a conveyor belt in extreme environments is the choice of materials. Crizaf designs and manufactures conveyors with components designed to cope with high chemical, thermal or physical stresses. In detail:

stainless steel structures
for wet or liquid-contact environments, the use of stainless steel is essential.
These are highly corrosion-resistant materials, ideal for the food and chemical industries or for applications in highly saline environments.

special materials for carpets and belts
Crizaf conveyors can be equipped with mats made of technical materials with high thermal or chemical resistance, such as plastic and metal. In the case of high temperatures, specific solutions are used to ensure conveyor stability even above 200°C. For handling of chemical or corrosive substances, on the other hand, acid-proof plastic materials or specific protective coatings are used, capable of maintaining consistent performance over time.

Conveyor belt technologies designed for production chains under harsh conditions

In addition to materials, technical design also plays a key role in the realization of conveyor belts for critical environments. Crizaf-in the product engineering phase-can adopt and/or recommend the integration of specific solutions to prevent failures and maximize efficiency. Let's look at some of them!

Drainage and ventilation systems
In contexts with high humidity or frequent washing, the use of water drainage systems, drainage holes, and demountable components can be attractive to facilitate sanitization. In some cases, the integration of cooling systems into the conveyor belt can also be envisaged to manage the transport of particular types of product or to allow rapid cooling of the materials being transported.

Protections and sealing
To prevent contaminants from entering internal components, Crizaf conveyor belts are equipped with high-seal gaskets and protective casings. This approach preserves the integrity of the conveyor system even in dusty or chemically hazardous environments.

Specific motors and components
All elements mounted on the extreme environment belts are selected according to IP protection class, temperature resistance and chemical compatibility. In addition, sensors, controls and automation systems compatible with harsh operating conditions can be mounted.

From food to steelmaking: application of conveyor belts in critical conditions

Conveyor belts find application in numerous production sectors characterized by critical conditions, where operating conditions require maximum reliability and durability.

Food industry
Moist processing, constant sanitization, and rigorous hygienic standards make food processing an environment where stainless steel, antimicrobial materials, and hygienic design are a must.

Chemical and pharmaceutical sector
Here it is critical to use corrosion-resistant materials and designs that prevent cross-contamination. Crizaf tailors solutions for transporting chemical powders or volatile substances.

Steel and engineering
In these areas, conveyor belts must withstand extreme temperatures, impacts and abrasions. The use of metal mats and reinforced structures is not an option, but the operating standard.

Custom conveyor belts made in Crizaf for every need!

Each industrial plant has unique specificities. That's why Crizaf starts with an in-depth technical analysis to come up with customized conveyor belts for extreme environments that can be perfectly adapted to the customer's production needs.

The approach is always customized: from the study of the layout, to the choice of materials, to the design of specific accessories such as containers, hoppers or additional protections. All this, with an eye always on easy maintenance, durability and energy efficiency.

Reliability, durability and hygiene are three must-have features when it comes to conveyor belts for extreme conditions. If you operate in harsh environments and are looking for a partner who can guarantee consistent performance over time, contact us to discover our range of industrial conveyor belts for extreme environments!