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To identify a flexible flat conveyor belt for replacement or repair, you need to record seven specifications: overall width, wire strand count (pitch), wire diameter, loop edge type, the number of mesh openings, opening dimensions, and belt material. This guide walks through each measurement step by step — with these seven data points (or a few clear photos), our engineers can match your belt exactly.
One Belt Type, Several Names
Before measuring, a quick note on terminology. The generic names for this belt type are flexible flat conveyor belt, rod network belt, and single loop wire belt — all describe the same construction: Z-bend looped wires interlocking into a lightweight, flat-profile open mesh, positively driven by sprockets.
In the market you will also hear “flat flex belt”. That usage derives from Flat-Flex®, a registered trademark of Wire Belt Company, which pioneered this belt style; because the original became so widespread, many buyers now use the term generically. PFM Screen is not affiliated with Wire Belt Company — we manufacture flexible flat conveyor belts to our own design, dimensionally compatible with standard sprocket-driven conveyor systems. Whatever name your belt goes by, the measurement procedure below applies.
Step 1: Measure the Overall Width
Definition: The overall width is the total measurement from one edge of the belt to the other, including any looped ends.
How to measure: Use a reliable measuring tape to record the distance from the outside edge of one end loop to the outside edge of the opposite end loop. Ensure the belt is laid flat for an accurate measurement.
Why it matters: This measurement determines whether the belt fits properly within the conveyor system.
Step 2: Count the Wire Strands and Determine the Pitch
Definition: The pitch is the center-to-center distance between two adjacent wire strands. In imperial specifications, the same information is often expressed as the number of strands per foot.
How to measure: Mark off a set length — one foot (305 mm) works well — and count the number of wire strands within it. Divide the length by the strand count to obtain the pitch, or simply report the strands-per-foot figure directly.
Why it matters: The pitch determines sprocket compatibility. A belt with the wrong pitch will not engage your existing sprockets.
Step 3: Measure the Wire Diameter
Definition: The wire diameter is the thickness of each individual wire strand that forms the belt.
How to measure: Use a caliper or a wire gauge to measure the diameter of a single wire strand. Measure multiple wires in different sections to ensure consistency.
Why it matters: The wire diameter determines the belt’s strength, flexibility, and load-carrying capacity, and is essential when sourcing a replacement.
Step 4: Inspect and Identify the Loop Edges
Definition: The loop edges are the sides of the belt where wires are looped to form a secure edge.
Types of edges:
- Single loop edge — a single wire is looped at the edge; the general-purpose standard.
- Double loop edge — two wires are looped together for additional strength and tracking stability; common on enrober machines.
- C-shaped edge — a specialized edge that reduces snagging and improves belt durability.
How to identify: Closely inspect both edges of the belt and measure the width of the loops for precise identification.
Why it matters: The loop type must match your conveyor’s drive and support components.
Step 5: Count the Number of Rectangular Openings
Definition: Rectangular openings are the spaces between the wires that make up the mesh pattern.
How to count: Count the total number of rectangular openings across the entire width of the belt, and note whether the openings are consistent or vary in size.
Why it matters: This count determines the mesh size and open area percentage, which directly affect airflow, drainage, and heat transfer. The space count also determines your sprocket arrangement and quantity.
Step 6: Measure the Dimensions of the Rectangular Openings
Definition: The dimensions of the openings refer to the width of each rectangle in the mesh.
How to measure: Use a ruler or caliper to measure the width of a typical opening, repeating across several openings to confirm uniformity.
Why it matters: Occasionally the end spaces differ in width from the middle spaces — this must be recorded for an exact match.
Step 7: Determine the Belt Material
Common materials:
- Stainless steel — resistant to corrosion and heat; ideal for food processing and high-temperature environments. Exhibits slight magnetic attraction.
- Spring wire — a high-carbon steel wire known for strength and elasticity. Strongly magnetic.
How to identify: Use a magnet: stainless steel shows a slight attraction, spring wire a strong pull. Also inspect for surface finishes or markings that may indicate the material type.
Why it matters: Material selection determines durability, flexibility, and resistance to your operating environment.
Step 8: Note Any Special Features or Modifications
Some flexible flat belts have special features such as edge guards, sprocket slots, or attachments for product handling. Inspect the entire belt and record any non-standard elements — these details ensure accurate replacements or repairs.
Step 9: Send Us Your Measurements
If you have gathered the information above, send it to a PFM SCREEN representative:
- Overall width
- Wire strand count and pitch
- Wire diameter
- Loop edge type
- Rectangular opening count and dimensions
- Material type
- Special features
Or download and fill in the Flexible Flat Conveyor Belts Enquiry Form or the Flexible Flat Turn-Curve Belt Enquiry Form and email it to us directly — we respond within 24 hours. You can also reach us through our contact page.
Additional Tips for Accurate Identification
- Take photos — capture clear images of the belt edges, mesh pattern, and any special features, ideally with a ruler in frame. Photos are invaluable when consulting with a representative.
- Check documentation — review any labels or paperwork associated with the belt, such as part numbers or manufacturer details.
- Inspect wear and tear — note fraying or deformation, which can affect measurement accuracy or indicate the need for a full replacement rather than a repair. Not sure what caused the damage? See the top 10 causes of belt downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a “flat flex belt” the same as a flexible flat conveyor belt?
A: Structurally yes. “Flat flex” is a market term derived from the Flat-Flex® brand, while flexible flat conveyor belt / rod network belt is the generic name for the belt type. The measurements in this guide identify any belt of this construction, regardless of who made it.
Q: Can PFM Screen supply a belt compatible with my existing conveyor?
A: Yes. Because the belt is fully defined by width, pitch, wire diameter, and edge type, we can manufacture belts dimensionally compatible with standard sprocket-driven conveyors, and supply matching sprockets if needed.
Q: What if I can’t measure the pitch accurately?
A: Photograph the belt flat with a ruler laid across one foot of its length and send us the image — our engineers will count the strands and confirm the pitch for you.
Q: How do I choose between single loop and double loop edges?
A: Single loop is the general-purpose standard. Choose double loop for enrober machines and applications needing extra edge stability and precise tracking.
Flat-Flex® is a registered trademark of Wire Belt Company. PFM Screen (Beijing PFM Screen Trading Co., Ltd.) is an independent manufacturer and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Wire Belt Company. The trademark is referenced solely to explain industry terminology.
