How to Choose Belt Width for Coal and Aggregate
Belt width is set by throughput and bulk density, not by what looks right on a sketch. Get the width and speed right up front and the idlers, pulleys and cleaners you order later will match. Start with the belt sizing estimator, then check the factors below.
Four numbers that set belt width
- Throughput (t/h) — the tons per hour the belt must carry; the single biggest driver of width.
- Bulk density (t/m³) — coal runs lower (~0.8–1.0), crushed aggregate higher (~1.4–1.7); denser material needs more belt area for the same tonnage.
- Belt speed (m/s) — higher speed carries more per metre; faster belts suit free-flowing material, slower belts suit dense or abrasive duty.
- Drop height and lump size — high drop or large lumps push you to a wider, heavier belt and an impact bed at the loading point.
Quick reference: typical widths by duty
| Duty | Typical belt width | Typical speed | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light coal / fine grain, low capacity | 500–800 mm | 2.0–2.5 m/s | Light duty, dry, stable run |
| Coal, moderate capacity | 1000–1200 mm | 2.5–3.15 m/s | Standard overland / plant belt |
| Crushed aggregate, high capacity | 1200–1600 mm | 3.15 m/s | Dense, abrasive, watch impact |
| High-capacity port / overland | 1600–2000 mm | 3.15–4.0 m/s | Heavy CEMA D/E build |
Common sizing mistakes
- Sizing only on peak peak tonnage with no margin for surge loads at the chute.
- Running too fast on dense aggregate, which raises spillage and belt wear instead of output.
- Forgetting the loading zone: impact troughing idlers or an impact bed absorb the drop before it tears the cover.
- Leaving cleaning out of the package: a primary PU cleaner at the head pulley cuts carry-back on the return run.
Need a number now? Open the belt sizing estimator for a rough belt width, speed and power estimate, then send your duty statement for a written quote. For a complete package, browse all conveyor components.
Send your throughput, bulk density and distance to jialuode@gmail.com for a written quotation and lead time.
Preliminary sizing guidance only; final belt width, speed and component selection must be confirmed against the full duty statement and engineering drawing.