Flame resistance
Numerous safety classifications, international standards and specific tests exist to evaluate the self-extinguishing properties of conveyor belts. These requirements are becoming increasingly stringent and, as a result, can be complex to interpret. Test methods and performance standards vary significantly depending on the environment in which the belt is used (above or below ground) and the level of fire risk associated with the material being conveyed.
It is important to note that conveyor belts cannot be completely fireproof. Any belt, if exposed to an open flame of sufficient intensity, will catch fire. This is because the fabrics used in the belt carcass, mainly polyester and nylon, are flammable materials with little or no fire resistance. However, rubber covers (top, bottom and intermediate between fabric layers) can be formulated with specific additives to improve flame resistance. These additives release inhibitor gases during combustion, depriving the flames of oxygen and thus promoting self-extinction of the tape.
The standard ISO 340 defines a method for evaluating, on a small scale, the reaction of a conveyor belt to an ignition source by flame. The test measures the time required for the belt to self-extinguish after exposure to flame.
- A lower value indicates a faster self-extinction time, thus greater resistance to flame propagation.
- A higher value means that the tape takes longer to extinguish, increasing the risk of fire spread.
This international standard is essential to ensure that conveyor belts used in fire-hazardous environments are self-extinguishing and do not contribute to the spread of flames.
A REFERENCE GUIDE FOR OUR FIRE RETARDANT COVERS
K: Fire resistance for moderately flammable materials. Not suitable for underground use
S: Fire resistance for highly flammable materials. Not suitable for underground use
CLASS A: Tape type suitable for underground use
MOR-K: Fire and oil resistant for most oil-containing products.
FLAMEPROOF COMPOUNDS:
|
MIX |
CATEGORY |
STANDARD VALUE |
|
K |
FLAME RETARDANT + ANTI-STATIC |
15s |
|
S |
FLAME RETARDANT + ANTI-STATIC |
15s |
|
CLASS A |
FLAME RETARDANT + ANTI-STATIC |
15s |
|
MOR-K |
FLAME PROOF + ANTISTATIC + OIL PROOF |
15s |