At IDC Conveyors Ltd, we know conveyor belts are at the heart of many operations. Many of these for various reasons require vulcanising joints but also can be used for repair. This method fuses and strengthens the multiple layers of a conveyor belt, ensuring it remains durable and capable of withstanding the stresses of daily use.

What is Conveyor Belt Vulcanising?

Most conveyor belts are made from layers of rubber and fabric. Vulcanising chemically bonds these layers, creating a robust and seamless belt that performs as if it were one continuous piece. The process is used not only in the manufacturing of new belts but also in repairing or joining belts already in service.

Industries such as mining, manufacturing, agriculture and logistics all rely on vulcanised belts because of their strength, durability, and resistance to wear.

The Vulcanising Process

Conveyor belt vulcanising is a step-by-step procedure that requires accuracy and experience. Here’s how it typically works:

• Preparation – The belt is thoroughly cleaned and inspected to remove contaminants or damage that could weaken the splice.
• Splicing – Damaged sections are removed, or the belt ends are prepared for joining. Precise alignment is critical at this stage.
• Application of agent – A vulcanising agent is applied to the belt ends. This enables the rubber layers to bond during the curing process.
• Pressing and heating – The belt is placed into a press under pressure and heat, activating the bonding process and forming a solid splice.
• Cooling – The splice is cooled gradually to maintain its integrity.
• Trimming and testing – Excess material is removed, and the joint is carefully inspected for quality, alignment and strength.

The result is a belt that is ready to perform under demanding conditions.

Hot vs Cold Vulcanising

There are two main methods:

• Hot Vulcanising – Involves heat and pressure. It produces the most durable, long-lasting joints.
• Cold Vulcanising – Uses chemical adhesives. Faster to carry out and useful on-site, but generally not as strong as hot vulcanising.

IDC Conveyors Ltd provides both options, depending on your belt type, site conditions, and operational requirements.

Benefits of Vulcanising

• Stronger, longer-lasting joints.
• Smooth operation without bumps or vibrations.
• Reduced risk of belt separation or failure.
• Extended belt life, saving costs over time.
• Improved safety, with no exposed fasteners.

Things to Consider

Vulcanising does require skilled technicians and specialist equipment. It also takes longer than quick-fix fasteners and may be harder in very cold or damp environments. However, the long-term reliability and performance usually outweigh these points.

Why Choose IDC Conveyors Ltd?

Our experienced engineers are equipped with everything needed to carry out hot or cold vulcanising on-site. We don’t just get your belt back up and running — we can also inspect your conveyor system, identify causes of wear, and suggest improvements.

From preparation and installation through to testing and fine-tuning belt tracking, we make sure your conveyor is safe, reliable and ready to perform.

Head over to our Conveyor Repairs page for more information.

Get in touch with us today for a personalised quote or call +44 (0) 1285 770 890 for an initial consultation to discuss how we can optimise your operations.

Contact us at

📧 sales@idc-conveyors.com

☎ +44 (0) 1285 770 890

🌐 www.idc-conveyors.com