Methods, Tools and Best Practices to Clean Conveyor Belts

Conveyor belts play a crucial role in material handling across various industries, including food processing, mining, and logistics. Proper cleaning is essential to prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, and residues that can compromise performance, lead to premature wear, and create safety hazards. In sectors such as food and pharmaceuticals, insufficient cleaning may also cause contamination and result in regulatory non-compliance.

This article explores the different cleaning methods, essential tools, and best practices to keep conveyor belts in optimal condition.

WHY CLEANING YOUR CONVEYOR BELT IS ESSENTIAL?

Regular conveyor belt cleaning is a fundamental part of maintenance that directly impacts operational efficiency, safety, and equipment longevity. Some of the key benefits include:

• Preventing material buildup: Residues, dust, and spillage can accumulate on the belt surface, rollers, and pulleys, leading to belt misalignment and increased wear.

• Ensuring hygiene and compliance: In industries like food processing and pharmaceuticals, thorough cleaning prevents bacterial growth and ensures compliance with health regulations.

• Reducing downtime and maintenance costs: Clean belts experience less friction and wear, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

• Enhancing workplace safety: Dirty conveyor belts increase the risk of slippage and contamination, posing hazards to workers and end products.

By implementing a regular cleaning schedule, businesses can maintain optimal belt performance while avoiding unnecessary maintenance expenses.

CONVEYOR BELT CLEANING METHODS

Several cleaning techniques can be used depending on the industry, belt material, and type of contamination. Below are listed some of the most effective conveyor belt cleaning methods:

DRY CLEANING METHODS

1. Manual Scraping and Brushing

Manual cleaning involves using scrapers, brushes, and other handheld tools to remove debris and buildup. This method is effective for non-sticky residues but requires significant labor and time.

2. Air Blasting

Air nozzles and blowers can remove dry particles, dust, and light contaminants from the belt surface. This method is commonly used in industries handling powdery substances like cement or flour.

3. Belt Scrapers

Installed directly on the conveyor system, belt scrapers continuously remove residue as the belt moves. They are ideal for reducing carryback and maintaining a cleaner system with minimal manual intervention. 

No matter the belt size, speed, environment or industry, MLT has a cleaning to solutions for you. Discover our range of conveyor belt scrapers!

WET CLEANING METHODS

1. High-Pressure Water Cleaning

Pressurized water jets effectively remove sticky residues and stubborn contaminants. This method is widely used in food processing, but it requires proper drainage systems to handle excess water.

2. Foam Cleaning

Applying cleaning foam helps break down organic residues and contaminants, making them easier to remove. After application, the foam is rinsed off, leaving a sanitized surface.

3. Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is highly effective for sterilization and removing grease, oil, or biofilm in hygienic environments. This method minimizes water usage while achieving deep cleaning.

CHEMICAL CLEANING METHODS

1. Detergents and Solvents

Specialized cleaning agents help dissolve oils, greases, and other stubborn contaminants. It is essential to select chemicals compatible with the belt material to avoid degradation.

2. Disinfection and Sanitization

In food, pharmaceutical, and healthcare industries, belts must be sanitized using approved disinfectants to eliminate bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms.

Each cleaning method has its advantages and limitations. Selecting the appropriate technique depends on the type of belt, the nature of contaminants, and industry-specific requirements.

ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR CONVEYOR BELT CLEANING

To effectively clean conveyor belts, you should use the right tools and equipment. Below are some of the most commonly used cleaning tools:

• Primary and secondary scrapers: Mounted on the conveyor system, scrapers remove bulk material and fine residues from the belt surface.
• Rotary brushes: Rotating brushes help dislodge dry debris and sticky materials from textured or patterned belts.
• Air knives and blowers: These devices use high-speed air to remove lightweight dust and particles.
• High-pressure washers: Ideal for deep cleaning, these machines use pressurized water to wash off contaminants.
• Foam generators: Used in food and pharmaceutical industries, these apply cleaning foam for thorough sanitization.
• UV sterilization systems: Some industries use ultraviolet (UV) sterilization to kill bacteria and microbes without chemical residues.

Using the correct tools enhances cleaning efficiency and ensures conveyor belts remain in optimal condition with minimal manual effort.

BEST PRACTICES FOR EFFECTIVE CONVEYOR BELT CLEANING

Proper conveyor belt cleaning involves more than just selecting the right method and tools. Adopting the following best practices ensures long-term efficiency and reliability.

✔️ ESTABLISH A CLEANING SCHEDULE

Regular cleaning should be integrated into your maintenance routine. High-use conveyor systems, especially in food production, may require daily cleaning, while others may be cleaned weekly or monthly.

✔️ CHOOSE CLEANING AGENTS WISELY

Ensure that any chemicals used for cleaning are compatible with the belt material. Avoid harsh solvents that may degrade rubber, PVC, or polyurethane belts. In food industries, always use FDA-approved cleaning agents.

✔️ IMPLEMENT AUTOMATED CLEANING SYSTEMS

Where possible, installing automated cleaning systems such as belt scrapers, washing stations, or self-cleaning rollers reduces manual labor and improves consistency.

✔️ TRAIN EMPLOYEES ON PROPER CLEANING PROCEDURES

Operators should be trained to recognize contamination risks, use cleaning tools correctly, and follow industry-specific hygiene standards. Training prevents improper cleaning methods that could damage belts or lead to inefficiencies.

✔️ MONITOR AND INSPECT FOR CLEANING EFFECTIVENESS

Regular inspections ensure that cleaning methods are effective and identify areas needing improvement. Using condition monitoring tools can help track belt cleanliness and performance.

✔️ BALANCE CLEANING WITH MAINTENANCE

Over-cleaning with aggressive methods can lead to premature belt wear. It's essential to strike a balance between maintaining hygiene and preserving the longevity of the belt.

By implementing these best practices, you can make your conveyor system cleaner, safer, and more efficient.