Transilon Technical Q&A (Basics)

Q. “What applications is Transilon suitable for?”

A.　Primarily designed for conveying light to medium-weight goods, Transilon covers a wide range of applications including intralogistics, food processing, airports, and manufacturing and processing operations. From horizontal conveying and inclined conveying to curve conveying and accumulation and sorting processes, the appropriate belt type can be selected according to the application and operating conditions.

Q. “What are the structural features of Transilon?”

A.　Its three-layer construction consisting of a top cover, tension member, and bottom cover achieves an excellent balance of smooth running characteristics, dimensional stability, and low-noise operation. The surface material and tension member structure are optimized according to the application.

Q. “How should the surface pattern be selected?”

A.　Selection should be based on criteria such as the slip characteristics of the conveyed goods, release properties, and incline angle. Suitable patterns are available for applications such as suitcase handling, food processing, and the conveying of sticky products.

Q. “What types of special designs are available?”

A.　Various special designs are available depending on the application, including heat resistance, flame-retardant properties, low-noise designs, high abrasion resistance, and ATEX compliance. Please consult us based on your application and operating environment.

Q. “Is belt selection important even for horizontal conveying?”

A.　Yes. Even in horizontal conveying, the required belt properties vary depending on factors such as the type of conveyed goods, speed, start/stop frequency, and whether accumulation is involved. Selecting a belt that matches the conditions helps ensure stable operation and extended service life.

Q. “What should be considered for inclined conveying?”

A.　The permissible conveying angle depends on the shape and material of the conveyed goods, the belt surface characteristics, and the operating environment. In some cases, smooth belts can be used, but for steep inclines or the conveying of small items, patterned belts or belts with cleats are more suitable.

Q. “Can it be used on curve conveyors?”

A.　Yes. Transilon belts for curve conveyors are standard products for major curve conveyor manufacturers. High-precision manufacturing ensures stable tracking and long service life.

Q. “Is it suitable for use in processing operations?”

A.　Yes. In addition to conveying, Transilon is used in production and processing operations such as baking, dairy processing, nonwoven production, and wood processing. It can also meet the requirements of processes that demand precise speed control and a high degree of surface smoothness.

Q. “Can it be used for food conveying?”

A.　Yes. A wide range of belts designed with food safety in mind is available. Products comply with HACCP concepts and meet the requirements of the Food Sanitation Act, FDA regulations, and EU regulations.

Q. “Are antistatic or conductive versions available?”

A.　Many Transilon belts are equipped with a conductive tension member to prevent electrostatic charge build-up. Depending on the application, antistatic types or highly conductive types can also be selected.

Q. “Are there any limitations regarding operating temperature or environmental conditions?”

A.　Yes. Each belt material has its own operating temperature range. In particular, durability may be reduced in hot and humid environments, so it is important to confirm the operating conditions.

Q. “Does Transilon require special maintenance?”

A.　Basically, no special maintenance is required. Siegling Transilon belts are highly durable and have a long product service life, so under normal operating conditions routine cleaning is usually sufficient. Keeping the belt clean together with pulleys, rollers, and support components is key to extending service life.

Q. “Are storage conditions very strict?”

A.　Yes, storage conditions are actually very important. The recommended environment is a cool, dry place at approximately 20°C and around 50% relative humidity. Direct sunlight, high temperature and humidity, low temperatures, and sudden environmental changes may impair the stability of the belt surface. In addition, bending the belt or applying loads to the edges should be avoided.

Q. “Can the belt be installed immediately on site?”

A.　Before installation, it is recommended to allow the belt to acclimatize to the ambient temperature on site. Installing the belt while a temperature difference remains may affect tensioning and dimensional stability.

Q. “Can it be used in processes where oil or chemicals adhere to the belt?”

A.　The belts are resistant to many oils, fats, and chemicals. However, the effect varies depending on the chemicals used and the operating conditions, so chemical resistance testing under actual operating conditions is recommended. Detailed chemical resistance data can also be found on the manufacturer’s website.

Q. “How should the belt be cleaned if it becomes dirty?”

A.　For light contamination, cleaning with lukewarm water is sufficient.

If oil or grease contamination is severe,
・PVC coating: use industrial alcohol
・Polyurethane coating: use white kerosene, then wipe with water.
*Polyamide coatings require individual confirmation.

Q. “Are delivery forms other than endless belts available?”

A.　Yes, various delivery forms are available depending on the application. In addition to endless belts, options include roll material, belts for on-site splicing, belts with mechanical fasteners, belts with cleats, and belts with sidewalls. For special fabrications, a separate document (Technical Document 2) is available.

Q. “Which splicing method should be selected?”

A.　Basically, the choice depends on the operating conditions and the belt type. When durability and flexibility are required, hot press splicing is the best option. On the other hand, for simple on-site work or short downtime, cold press splicing or mechanical fasteners may be selected. The key point is to clarify whether strength, flexibility, or ease of installation is the top priority.

Q. “Which splice is suitable for knife edge applications?”

A.　Z-splicing using hot press technology is the most suitable option. Because the splice is highly flexible and maintains uniform thickness, stable conveying is possible even at knife edges.

Q. “What are the advantages of mechanical fasteners?”

A.　The greatest advantage is quick installation and repair. Belts can be replaced without major disassembly of the conveyor, making them suitable for emergency response and partial repairs. However, there are limitations on the minimum pulley diameter, so it is important to confirm the design conditions.

Q. “What is the appropriate installation tension?”

A.　In general, an installation take-up of 0.2–1.0% is recommended. When loads are high or conditions are demanding, it is safer to calculate the tension using a calculation program.

Q. “Are there any points to note during trial operation?”

A.　At first, apply tension evenly on both sides little by little and be sure to check for any belt tracking issues. After the trial run, it is ideal to adjust the tension to the minimum required level with the actual conveyed goods on the belt.

Q. “Is the orientation of the splice really that important?”

A.　It is extremely important. When loads such as scrapers or brushes are applied, be sure to check the running direction so that the splice is oriented to “run with” the load. Incorrect orientation can lead to premature problems.

Q. “What safety precautions should be observed during use?”

A.　Please pay close attention to the following points.

・Do not approach the conveyor while it is operating to prevent entanglement
・Always switch off the power during installation and splicing work
・Open flames and the use of solvents are strictly prohibited
・Do not use the belt outside the permissible limits for pulley diameter, tension, temperature range, etc.