Help

Flat Wire Conveyor Belt Replacement Guide

Need a replacement flat wire conveyor belt? Start with a few photos of the old belt, its width and the equipment it runs on. PFM Screen can review the construction and help confirm the remaining dimensions for a quotation. An original drawing or specification is useful, but you can contact us before every measurement is available.

If the old belt worked well: use its original specification as the starting point. Tell us separately if you want to address corrosion, damaged edges, poor product support or another operating problem.

Request a replacement belt quote   |   Download the belt enquiry form (PDF)

1. Confirm the Belt Construction

Flat wire belts, also called honeycomb conveyor belts, have formed flat metal strips joined by straight cross rods. The strips stand on edge, creating an open lattice with an even carrying level. Check the mesh and both edges when identifying an existing belt.

This guide covers that construction. If you are unsure of the belt name, send a close-up instead of selecting a size from a similar-looking product. See our Honeycomb / Flat Wire Conveyor Belt specifications for the available structures and dimension drawing.

Honeycomb flat wire conveyor belt for blancher, stainless steel flat strips and cross rods

Honeycomb / Flat Wire Belt

2. Start with These Photos

Photo What to include
Carrying surface A clear overhead view of several complete openings, with a ruler in the same plane.
Belt edge and underside Rod ends, any side chains or guards, and the underside of the mesh.
Joint The connecting rod and how its ends are retained.
Drive A clear view of the sprockets and their engagement with the belt, plus any visible wear.

Only inspect and measure the belt when the conveyor is stopped and safely isolated. Keep the original drawing or a spare unused section available if you have one.

3. Record the Dimensions That Determine the Fit

Use the A–G labels on the PFM dimension drawing and enquiry form. Record dimensions in millimetres, or clearly state when your measurements are in inches.

Reference Record this Why it matters
A Overall belt width; usable carrying width if different Checks edge clearances and the available carrying surface.
B Cross-rod pitch: centre-to-centre along the belt Helps confirm the repeating geometry and drive engagement.
C Nominal lateral pitch across the width Identifies the transverse repeat; it is not the clear opening.
D Cross-rod diameter Defines the rod size used in the assembly.
E × F Flat-strip height × thickness Identifies the strip cross-section.
G Number of apertures across the width Helps confirm the mesh arrangement together with the width.
Also record Total belt length, actual clear opening and edge type Completes the replacement information beyond the A–G dimensions.

How to measure cross-rod pitch

Measure from the centre of the first rod to the centre of the eleventh rod, then divide that distance by 10. Repeat on several sections, preferably with little wear. This averages reading error; it does not recover the original pitch of an elongated belt.

Keep original drawing dimensions and measured worn-belt dimensions separate. If the belt has stretched, send both where available so the replacement specification can be checked.

Nominal size is only a starting point

Names such as “1 × 1” or “1/2 × 1” identify nominal mesh sizes. They do not fully describe rod pitch, strip dimensions or edge geometry. Do not order a replacement from that label alone.

4. Check the Edges, Joint and Drive Together

A replacement needs to fit the conveyor as well as match the mesh. Show whether the rod ends are welded or clinched, or whether side chains carry the belt. Include side plates, flights and the joint where fitted.

  • Existing sprockets: provide photos and available dimensions. Tooth shape, spacing and wear should be checked against the proposed belt.
  • Chain edges: include the chain specification and attachment arrangement, not only the mesh dimensions.
  • Conveyor support: mention damaged wear strips, snagging points or recurring edge wear. A new belt alone may not resolve these conditions.

If the old specification performed well, matching it is usually the practical starting point. If the process or product has changed, describe the change before selecting a different opening or strip size.

5. Send the Information You Have

A simple first enquiry

“We need a replacement flat wire belt for [equipment/process]. The belt is approximately [width] wide and [length] long. Photos are attached. The old belt [worked well / has this problem]. Please help confirm the replacement specification.”

Add the material, quantity and required delivery date if known. For wet or heated service, include the operating temperature and cleaning conditions.

For a detailed quotation, we can review the missing dimensions, edge and drive information with you. The agreed specification or drawing should identify the belt to be manufactured, its joint arrangement and any requested spare connecting rods or sprockets.

Common Replacement Questions

Can you identify a belt without an original drawing?

Photos and measurements are a useful starting point. A sample section may help when the strip shape, worn dimensions or edge arrangement is difficult to identify. Discuss the required sample before sending it.

Can I keep my existing sprockets?

Possibly, if the new belt geometry matches and the sprockets remain serviceable. Send drive photos for review; a similar nominal mesh size does not establish compatibility.

Can I order one replacement belt?

Single-belt replacement enquiries are welcome. Confirm any quantity restrictions for special materials or custom dimensions with the quotation.

Let Us Help Identify Your Replacement Belt

Send a mesh photo, an edge photo and the belt width to start. Include your drawing or enquiry form if available.

Request a Replacement Belt QuoteEmail Photos & DetailsWhatsApp