What are the function of Three Different Types of Cleated Belt Conveyor?

A cleated belt conveyor is a type of conveyor belt equipped with vertical projections, called cleats, on its surface. These cleats prevent materials from sliding back or falling off during inclined or fast movement. Cleated belt conveyors are widely used in material handling, industrial automation, and applications requiring efficient vertical transport of bulk or irregular-shaped items.

• Applications

Material Elevation: Prevents backward sliding on inclined conveyors.

Spacing Control: Maintains consistent gaps between items for automated processes.

Load Conveyance: Ensures stable transfer of heavy loads at various angles.

Special Material Handling: Suitable for bulk, granular, or irregular-shaped products.

• Common Materials

Cleated conveyor belts and their cleats are typically made from:

Rubber (SBR, NBR): Durable, wear-resistant, industrial-grade.

PVC: Food-grade, easy to clean, suitable for light-to-medium duty.

PU (Polyurethane): High wear resistance, food-safe.

Silicone: Heat or cold resistant.

Material choice depends on product characteristics, temperature, and industry standards (food, chemical, etc.).

• Functions & Typical Use Cases

2. Different Types of Cleats (T-cleats, I-cleats, Scoop Cleats)

• T-Cleats

The most common and standard type of cleat.

Vertically mounted to provide strong anti-slip capability.

Can be thermally pressed or mechanically attached to conveyor belts.

Applications: Suitable for general inclined transport and light-to-medium weight materials.

• I-Cleats

Similar to T-cleats but narrower and straight.

Ideal for light-duty or moderately inclined conveyors.

Typically supported by standard conveyor rollers.

Applications: Used for regular-shaped, lighter materials at medium inclines.

• Scoop Cleats

Curved or forward-tilted cleats shaped like a scoop.

Can “scoop” bulk material during transport, improving conveying efficiency.

Applications: Best for granular or free-flowing materials on steep inclines.

3. How to Choose the Right Cleat Type

Choosing the correct cleated conveyor belt depends on:

• Material Characteristics

Granular or powdered material: Scoop cleats improve capacity.

Regular-shaped items: T- or I-cleats are sufficient.

Slippery or heavy items: Consider taller or reinforced cleats.

• Conveyor Incline

Low incline (<15°): Standard T- or I-cleats.

Medium-to-high incline (15°–30°): Scoop cleats recommended.

Steep/vertical incline: Combine with sidewalls or specialized cleats.

• Load & Hygiene Requirements

Heavy or impact-prone materials: Thicker, wear-resistant cleats.

Food or clean-room applications: PU or PVC food-grade materials.

4. Comparison of Cleat Types: Features and Applications

Conclusion Cleated belt conveyors are essential for efficient industrial material handling. Choosing the right cleat type ensures optimal performance and reliability:

Notes: T-cleats and I-cleats are functionally similar; T-cleats have a wider base and greater stability. Scoop cleats excel at high-volume material handling on steep inclines.

T-Cleats: Universal, stable, versatile.

I-Cleats: Simple, light-duty, cost-effective.

Scoop Cleats: High-capacity, ideal for steep or granular material transport.

Consider material properties, conveyor incline, load, and environmental conditions when selecting cleats for your conveyor belt system. The correct choice improves efficiency, safety, and durability.

Contact us today to discuss your application parameters or explore our full catalog of industrial rubber rollers to find your perfect match.