38 n BEARINGS, BELTS AND CHAINS March 2026 www.drivesncontrols.com How do you create joints in fabric belts? There are various methods for creating joints in fabric belts, each offering specific advantages and limitations, depending on factors such as operating temperatures, flexibility, ease of installation, and maintenance requirements. Fabric belts have been a core of Habasit’s portfolio since the company was founded in 1946. Over the years, the company has refined its manufacturing processes to create stronger, more resilient belts. And it now offers four key joining methods. Flexproof joining This creates a fusion joint by heating the belt’s thermoplastic material until it melts, then pressing the belt together along the weld line. This line is extended using a finger pattern, thus enhancing the joint’s strength without needing adhesives. The advantages of this method include: n high flexibility, enabling the use of smaller pulley diameters; n high tensile strengths; n it is ideal for belts containing thermoplastic layers; and n the adhesive-free approach simplifies the joining process. However, Flexproof joining is not suitable for high temperatures, and has a maximum operating temperature of 60–80°C. Quickmelt joining This is another fusion joint method, that is simple and fast. The belt ends are cut at an angle, and the butt ends are then placed together in a guide rail and heat-pressed. This creates a secure, adhesivefree bond. It is: n fast and straightforward, making it ideal for on-site belt installation; n flexible at the joint, supporting its use with smaller pulleys; and is n adhesive-free, simplifying the joining process. But the Quickmelt method is not as strong as a Flexproof joint, and is limited to operating temperatures from 60–80°C Thermofix joining This method is used to join thermoset plastics. The belt ends are skived into complementary wedge shapes and bonded securely using adhesive, heat and pressure. It is: The joint in a fabric belt is often its weakest point. There is choice of methods for creating these joints, each with its pros and cons. This article, from the belt-maker Habasit, looks at four techniques. Mechanical lacing is good where quick or frequent belt changes are needed Flexproof joining creates a fusion joint by heating the belt’s thermoplastic material until it melts Quickmelt joining creates a secure, adhesive-free bond Thermofix joining is good for high-resilience or shock-resistant applications STEEL LACING MECAFLEX
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