The Benefits of Sidewall Belting for Efficient Material Handling
April 3, 2025
In fast-paced package-handling facilities, selecting RedDrive® or LRB‑series live roller belts—paired with proper splicing tools and training—optimizes uptime, lowers maintenance costs, and improves handling reliability. For system operators, the payoff is clear: fewer stoppages, smoother throughput and splices done right the first time.
Introducing RedDrive: Engineered for Package Handling
Motion’s RedDrive belting is purpose-built to enhance reliability and minimize maintenance on live roller conveyors. Available in:
- RedDrive 45: a 45 mm belt engineered as a stronger, longer‑lasting replacement for the standard blue drive belt. It offers:
- 30 % longer service life.
- Enhanced surface hardness.
- Lower-durometer TPU for better roller grip and reduced tension.
- Splicing compatibility with existing equipment, featuring a 120 mm splice for efficient installation.
- RedDrive 77: a 77 mm belt incorporating Kevlar™ reinforcement and advanced TPU for:
- 10–15 % higher belt strength.
- 25 % reduced drive tension.
- 30–40 % stronger splice performance.
- Quieter operation.
- Simplified installation with lighter weight and spool splicing.
By combining these belts with Motion’s proprietary RedDrive splice press and cutters, users benefit from 70 % faster splice times, stronger splice integrity, and an 80 % quicker return to operation.
LRB‑77: OEM‑Fit Simplicity
Ideal for long‑length, high‑speed live roller installations, the LRB‑77 belt adheres to original OEM specs. Its features include:
- Integrated V‑guide tailored for OEM pressure roller grooves.
- Aramid cords for consistent tension and belt longevity.
- Abrasion‑resistant polyurethane for optimal roller traction.
- Availability in 600 or 1,200 ft reels, ready for large‑scale systems.
This belt perfectly fits systems from OEMs like Gates, supporting maintenance teams with reliable replacements matching factory performance.
Other OEM-Width Live Roller Belts
Motion also stocks:
- LVR‑60 (45 mm): An Aramid‑reinforced, antistatic blue TPU belt, easily spliced in the field.
- LVRQ‑70 (70 mm): A belt with integrated nylon-covered V-guide, combining strength, flexibility and antistatic properties.
These belts offer granular options when system dimensions or characteristics differ slightly from RedDrive or LRB‑77 standards.
Splicing Tools and Workstations for Peak Uptime
A robust belt is only part of the equation. Motion supports system uptime through:
- Novitool RedDrive workstations: mobile carts for tool storage and belt dispensing.
- Flexco NDX belt cutters and Aero 325 presses, offering precision finger-cut splicing and automated heating, reducing splice times by 70–75 % (to ~17–22 minutes).
- Splice training, press kits and full accessory packs, enabling teams to execute efficient, high-quality splices on-site.
Why These Systems Work for Package Handling
Live roller systems in package handling face constant wear. The RedDrive and LRB‑77, LVR-60 and LVRQ-70 belts deliver:
- Enhanced durability under heavy loads and speed demands.
- Reduced downtime via quicker, stronger splices.
- Improved operational consistency with antistatic, abrasion-resistant surfaces.
- OEM compatibility, minimizing needed adjustments.
Contact your belt specialist today to learn more.
