Belting design

Ashworth's Chemguard Prestoflex belt is now being produced in PVDF material for can washing applications, to provent belt swelling. Image: Ashworth
CanTech International conducts a Q&A with Jonathan R Lasecki, director of engineering at leading conveyor belt manufacturer, Ashworth
Can you explain the specific challenges can making conveyor belts address?
As a conveyor belt manufacturer, we are concerned in how the cans move on and with the belting we supply. In the can making process, the cans are often presented on to the belt with the cut side down. Damage to this edge would prevent a proper seal of the lid to the can. We must present a belt surface which is smooth enough to allow can movement without damaging this cut edge.
We also must understand the loading and conditions on each individual process in the can moving production. Belt strength, proper temperature and corrosion resistance must be considered with choosing a particular belt and or belt material.
What are the key features that differentiate Ashworth’s belts from those offered by other suppliers?
Ashworth listens to the challenges of the processors. Should it be chemical resistant or belt strength, we can offer the belt design and material best suited for the application.
How does Ashworth ensure the reliability and durability of its belts, considering the demanding nature of the industry?
Ashworth is known for its consistent quality. We have multiple in-process inspections at each step in the belt manufacturing process to ensure the belts we supply meet the requirements of the processor.
Can you elaborate on the different types of can making conveyor belts offered by Ashworth?
We offer T316 SS flat wire belts for the can making and washing processes and offer T304 belt where acid resistance is not required. We can also supply plastic belting if needed for general conveyance.
How does Ashworth incorporate innovation into its designs, to improve efficiency and productivity?
Listening to the challenges of the processor is our strength. If you have a challenge, we will work with the processor and offer either a new or existing belt design.
What measures does Ashworth take to ensure the safety of operators and maintenance personnel when working with its belts?
Most conveyor belts are guarded by the machine builder. However, Ashworth considers possible pinch points when designing new belts to ensure operator safety.
Can you provide an example of successful implementation of Ashworth’s belts in a real-world production environment?
Our Chemguard Prestoflex belting produced in PVDF material is now used in most can washing machines.
This belt was originally produced and installed in nearly all can wash machines, but the original polypropylene material would absorb the oils being removed from the cans. This caused the belt to swell. The belt life was only around 18 months due to this swelling which led to belt jams.
Since we introduced the PVDF material in the same belt design, the belt now lasts ten plus years, with no dimensional changes.
How does Ashworth support its customers in terms of maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical support? Ashworth has a dedicated product/application engineering team to answer technical questions.
We also have Ashworth Factory Services which are trained to help maintain, service and install belting 24/7.
In what ways does Ashworth prioritise sustainability and environmental responsibility in the design and manufacturing of its belts?
Our belting is part of a complex conveyor system but when we design belting, we try to utilise recyclable materials.
By understanding the individual process, we can make recommendations on how to minimise chemical carry over and prevent product damage (waste).
Can you discuss any recent advancements or upcoming developments that potential customers should be aware of?
We have been supplying a system we call SmartOven. This is an equipment monitoring system that records and maps trends to your smart phone, tablet, laptop or PC.
By monitoring trends and issuing warnings the processor can reliably schedule predictive maintenance instead of more costly preventive maintenance.
- Jonathan R Lasecki has over 27 years of experience designing and troubleshooting food processing conveyors and can conveyor belting. As director of engineering, he oversees the design and development of Ashworth conveyor belting.
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