Which Belts are Antistatic for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres?
We define antistatic properties as the ability of a given product to dissipate electrostatic charge.
Electrical Conductivity of ContiTech Rubber Belts
Most ContiTech rubber drive belts we supply meet the requirements for electrical conductivity according to ISO 1813:2014 for V-belts and multiple belts and according to ISO 9563:2015 for timing belts.
Conductivity, and thus antistatic properties, is ensured during production thanks to the materials used and the method of production. The basic premise is the use of quality rubber compounds with the required properties. This distinguishes our V-belts and timing belts from various cheap and lower quality belts imported mainly from Asia, which are made from recycled and low quality raw materials.
A list of ContiTech belt types that meet the electrical conductivity requirements can be found in the appendix:
- Factory Electrical Conductivity Certificate of Belts According to ISO 1813 and ISO 9563 (pdf, 105 kB)
Belt Antistatic Properties Certification
If a test report according to ISO 1813 and ISO 9563 is required, ContiTech issues the following certificates on request after the factory tests:
- Electrical Conductivity Certificate
- Certificate of Electrical Conductivity for Gas Stations
- Non-Flammability Certificate UL 94 HB with Electrical Conductivity Certificate
More information both about the use and certification of belts in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX), and about verification of belts antistatic properties and non-flammability, you can find on the Belt Certification page.
Antistatic Properties of Polyurethane Belts
The situation is more complicated with polyurethane belts. Conventional polyurethanes, from which CONTI SYNCHRODRIVE belts are made, are not conductive, and are therefore not able to dissipate electrostatic charge. Other means must be used to achieve conductivity. Most often, a special fabric is used on the teeth and back PAZ + PAR, which is conductive, thus ensuring that these belts meet antistatic conditions. This fabric, unlike conventional non-conductive green fabric, is gray or black.
The antistatic properties of CONTI SYNCHROFLEX polyurethane timing belts are achieved by a special electrically conductive polyurethane compound. The maximum length of these belts is 700 mm, they are made only to order and the condition of production is the purchase of a very large number of pieces, as it is necessary to completely change the production mixture of polyurethane. The color of these belts is black.
In case of more complex cases or the need for a consultation, please contact us.
