TPEXclassic Timing Belts:  Low Cost, Fast Lead Times

TPEXclassic Timing Belts: Low Cost, Fast Lead Times

As project timelines shrink and budgets tighten, there's a growing need for dependable covered timing belt solutions that arrive faster and cost less, while still providing reliable performance.  

The new TPEXclassic timing belt from BRECOflex does just that. This polyurethane timing belt solution has the grip and durability needed for light and moderate conveying applications at a fraction of the cost and lead times as fast as three days.

The abrasion resistant, FDA-compliant TPEX backing material is extruded directly onto timing belts engineered for moderate-load conveying, giving you exactly the performance you need. No unnecessary over-engineering, and no premium price tag.

Key Takeaways:

  • TPEXclassic combines a durable T10 spliced and welded polyurethane timing belt with an FDA-compliant extruded TPE backing material.
  • Engineered with cost-effective polyurethane and specially designed tension members, TPEXclassic belts are optimized for light to moderate load conveying applications.
  • Stocked and shipped in the USA, TPEXclassic timing belts have approximate lead times of 3 days.

TPEXclassic timing belt explained

A cross section view of the TPEXclassic timing belt

TPEXclassic is a timing belt line specifically designed for simple conveying applications that need reliable grip, abrasion resistance, and FDA compliance without the cost or complexity of a high-load belt.  

The belt itself uses cost-efficient polyurethane and thicker tension member cables than standard belts to deliver dependable conveying performance at an excellent value. Every TPEXclassic belt is a T10 spliced and welded belt, making it easy to retrofit existing conveying systems.  

Its red thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) backing is extruded directly onto the belt, creating a smooth and secure bond that eliminates the curing time required by adhesive-backed options. The direct extrusion process improves durability and helps achieve three-day lead times.  

The table below outlines key properties of TPEXclassic timing belt and backing material:  

Specification Belt Base Extruded Backing
Color White Red
Material TPU-CLA TPE
Temperature Range 0°C – +80°C
(32°F – +176°F)
-40°C – +80°C
(-40°F – +176°F)
Hardness 92 Shore A 41 Shore A

The properties of TPEXclassic make it an effective and affordable alternative to 40 TPE FDA backings in certain applications. However, it shouldn’t be treated as a one-to-one replacement for all covered timing belts. Systems with high torque or load requirements or that are exposed to things like grease or oils may require another standard or specialized belt from BRECOflex.

What are the benefits of TPEXclassic timing belts?

There are several benefits of using a TPEXclassic timing belt, including:

  • Short lead times: As fast as three days, up to 70% shorter than comparable solutions.  
  • Lower cost: Optimized materials and efficient manufacturing reduce overall cost.
  • Strong extrusion bond: The backing is extruded directly onto the belt, ensuring consistent adhesion and performance while reducing lead time.  
  • Easy machining: TPEXclassic belts can be quickly machined in our New Jersey facility to meet application-specific design needs.  
  • Durability and resilience: The 41 Shore A backing offers a soft surface that still has enough grip to protect products while resisting abrasion.  
  • FDA-compliant: Suitable for certain food, beverage, and medical applications.
  • Easy integration and replacement: Designed for standard T10 pulley pitches, allowing for straightforward replacement or upgrades to existing systems.  
  • Reduced downtime and maintenance: Made with durable and easy to clean materials that can be shipped quickly when needed.  

Applications for TPEXclassic timing belts

TPEXclassic timing belts are built for reliable performance in a range of conveying applications where gentle handling and consistent grip are important.  

Take the food and beverage packaging industry for example. TPEXclassic belts can convey packaged food, bottles, or cans in FDA-regulated facilities with consistent grip. Its water-resistant properties make it easy to clean, creating a low-maintenance, cost-effective, and hygienic production line.  

TPEXclassic can also be an excellent option in packaging lines that transport cardboard between stations. The 41 Shore A durometer backing gives enough traction to hold the cardboard without tearing or scuffing the material, but it can withstand the dust and debris that are often found in those facilities.  

While other belts and backings can get these jobs done, they may be over-engineered for the application, meaning you’re paying for more than you need. TPEXclassic delivers the best balance of performance, value, and lead time.

Alternatives to TPEX backings. While TPEXclassic belts offer several benefits, they aren’t the right fit for every application. If you need similar properties of a TPEX backing, but the performance or construction of a different base belt, consider alternative backing materials such as 40 TPE FDA, Linatex®. The material properties between TPEX and these backings differ, so confirm that they are appropriate for your application.

Are TPEXclassic timing belts right for your system?

If your conveyor belt system transports low to moderate loads and doesn’t require extreme torque or precision, TPEXclassic could be an excellent, cost-effective choice that doesn’t sacrifice quality or durability.  

However, there are many things to consider when choosing a timing belt and backing, like chemical exposures, friction, and ambient temperature, so it’s important to fully understand the project’s needs and environment before you make a final decision.  

Luckily, our engineering team provides free design support and can help you evaluate your application’s needs and identify what components will work best in your conveyor system. Ready to talk to our timing belt experts about TPEXclassic? Contact us today.  

TPEXclassic FAQs

TPEXclassic timing belts were created to give customers a high value low lead time timing belt for simple conveyor applications. To achieve this goal, we utilize different polyurethane, tension members, and manufacturing processes for TPEXclassic belts than our standard belts. The design of TPEXclassic makes them ideal for low to moderate load conveying. Our standard or other specialty belt lines are better suited for other applications.

No, the TPEXclassic backing cannot be used on standard BRECOflex belts.

When choosing a timing belt backing, you need to consider the friction, hardness, and chemical resistance of the backing, as well as environmental factors of the application, such as temperature and UV exposure. The design of your drive system is also critical, as adding backings can impact minimum pulley diameter.

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