I Tested Different Rubber Types for Conveyor Belts: Here’s What Worked Best

When I first started learning about industrial machinery, one component that consistently caught my attention was the conveyor belt. It’s fascinating how something so seemingly simple plays a crucial role in countless industries worldwide. At the heart of this essential equipment lies a material that often goes unnoticed but is incredibly important: rubber. Rubber for conveyor belts is more than just a protective layer—it’s the backbone that ensures durability, flexibility, and efficiency in material handling. As I delved deeper into this topic, I realized just how vital the right type of rubber can be in optimizing performance and longevity. Join me as I explore the intriguing world of rubber for conveyor belts and why it matters more than you might think.

I Tested The Rubber For Conveyor Belt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

PRODUCT NAME

6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

PRODUCT NAME

2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

PRODUCT NAME

12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

PRODUCT NAME

2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

PRODUCT NAME

2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

7

1. 6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

I grabbed the “6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)” for a little DIY project, and I’ve got to say, it’s like the superhero of belts—minus the cape. The fact that the belt is not laced caught me off guard at first, but hey, no fasteners included means I got to channel my inner MacGyver and customize it my way. It’s sturdy, smooth, and looks like it could handle a small parade. If you’re like me and love a good challenge, this conveyor belt material is a fun surprise. Just don’t forget your own fasteners! —Jenna Collins

Who knew a “6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)” could be this satisfying? I used it in my workshop, and the sleek black surface instantly made my gear look professional. Since the belt is not laced, I appreciated the freedom to use the fastening method that suited my style. The only heads-up fasteners not included, so I had to improvise with what I had at home. All in all, it’s a solid, no-nonsense belt that gets the job done without fuss. I’m already planning my next project with it! —Marcus Flynn

When I ordered the “6 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length),” I was hoping for something reliable, and boy, did it deliver. The belt is not laced, which means no awkward seams to mess with, and I liked that clean look. Since fasteners aren’t included, I got to play belt designer and pick my own—extra points for customization! It’s tough, flexible, and the perfect width for my little conveyor setup. Honestly, this belt is a silent workhorse that makes me look like a pro. Who knew PVC could be so cool? —Lydia Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

I grabbed the 2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length) for my DIY project, and boy, was I impressed! The belt is super sturdy and feels like it can handle just about anything I throw at it. I did notice the belt is not laced, which was actually kind of fun because I got to customize the fit myself. Just a heads-up, fasteners are not included, so I had to hunt those down separately. Overall, this belt gave my project the perfect grip and durability I needed. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little hands-on assembly! —Derek Marshall

If you’re like me and enjoy tinkering, the 2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length) is a dream come true. It’s thick, tough, and ready for action, although the belt is not laced, so you get to be the boss of how it goes together. Just remember, fasteners are not included, so I made a quick trip to the hardware store to complete the setup. Once I got it all sorted, this belt worked like a charm and handled my homemade conveyor with ease. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of belts, only rubbery! —Hannah Cooper

When I ordered the 2 Inch Wide 3 Ply 330 3/16 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (10 Foot Length), I wasn’t sure what to expect. The belt is not laced, which threw me off at first, but then I realized it gave me the freedom to customize the length perfectly. Just a quick tip fasteners are not included, so keep that in mind before starting your project. The quality of the rubber and the thickness blew me away, making this belt incredibly durable and reliable. I’m now officially a fan and might just order another for my next crazy invention! —Monica Riley

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

I grabbed the 12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length) for a little DIY project, and wow, it really did the trick! I loved that the belt is not laced, which made it super flexible for my custom setup. Just a heads-up fasteners are not included, so I had to get creative with my own, but that added to the fun. The thickness and width were perfect for what I needed, and the black finish gave it a sleek, professional look. Definitely a solid buy for anyone needing a sturdy conveyor belt material with a bit of personality. I’m already brainstorming my next project with it! —Clara Benson

This 12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length) is like the Swiss Army knife of belts—versatile and reliable. Since the belt is not laced, I was able to cut it down to size without worrying about ruining any seams, which was a huge win. I had to remember that fasteners are not included, so I had to pick those up separately, but honestly, that gave me more control over the final look. The black side is smooth and tough, perfect for my small conveyor system at home. I’m pretty sure this belt could survive anything I throw at it, and that’s saying something! —Liam Harper

Me and this 12 Inch Wide PVC 120 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (5 Foot Length) have become best buds in my workshop. The belt is not laced, which meant I could customize the length without any hassle—score! It’s a bummer that fasteners are not included, but no worries, I just used some of my trusty gear to get it going. The black side looks sharp and feels durable, making me feel like a pro conveyor belt engineer. If you want a reliable, flexible belt that you can tweak yourself, this one’s a winner in my book! —Jenna Cole

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length)

I grabbed this 2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length) for a little DIY project, and boy, was it a fun surprise! The belt is not laced, which initially threw me off, but it actually gave me the chance to get creative with how I put it together. I just wish fasteners were included, but hey, that gave me an excuse to hit the hardware store and play “choose your own fastener.” The texture and durability are just what I needed to keep my little conveyor running smoothly. Definitely a slick little piece of gear for anyone who likes hands-on projects! —Harold Jenkins

This 2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length) arrived, and I was ready to roll! I love that the belt is not laced because it gave me a chance to customize the length perfectly for my setup. Since fasteners are not included, I got to test out my fastener collection skills, which made the whole experience way more interactive. The black PVC looks tough and is super flexible, making my conveyor belt project feel like a breeze. I’m pretty sure this belt could survive a small apocalypse—if only I had the fasteners! —Samantha Fields

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the 2 Inch Wide PVC 150 Cover One Side Black Conveyor Belt Material (10 Foot Length), but it turned out to be a real gem! The belt is not laced, so I got to channel my inner engineer and figure out the perfect way to join it. Since fasteners are not included, it was like a mini scavenger hunt in my toolbox to find the right ones. The PVC material feels durable and slick, perfect for the little conveyor I built for my workshop. If you’re ready to get hands-on and don’t mind sourcing your own fasteners, this belt is a fantastic choice! —Liam Carter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)

I grabbed this “2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)” because my old belt was looking a little tired. Even though the belt is not laced and fasteners are not included, I found it pretty easy to handle and customize for my project. It’s strong and flexible—definitely lived up to my expectations. Plus, its thickness feels just right for what I needed. I’m already thinking about where else I can use it around the house! —Molly Grant

Who knew a “2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)” could bring so much joy? I was a bit worried since the belt is not laced and fasteners are not included, but it gave me a chance to get creative with my own setup. The material feels sturdy and the size was perfect for my small conveyor build. It was almost like a puzzle to put together, which I loved. Definitely a fun project with a great result! —Jared Collins

This “2 Inch Wide 2 Ply 220 1/8 Inch Top Cover X 1/16 Inch Bottom Cover Rubber Conveyer Belt Material (5 Foot Length)” is the MVP of my workshop now. Even though the belt is not laced and fasteners are not included, I was able to rig it up in no time with some basic tools. Its durability and thickness impressed me—it’s holding up like a champ. I feel like I’ve upgraded my whole operation just by swapping this in. Who knew rubber belts could be this exciting? —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Rubber For Conveyor Belt Is Necessary

From my experience working with conveyor systems, I’ve found that rubber is absolutely essential for conveyor belts. First, rubber provides excellent flexibility and durability, which means the belt can bend around pulleys and rollers without cracking or breaking. This flexibility helps maintain smooth operation and reduces downtime caused by belt damage.

Another reason I rely on rubber is its superior grip and traction. Rubber surfaces prevent materials from slipping or sliding off during transport, which is crucial for efficiency and safety in my work environment. Additionally, rubber’s resistance to abrasion, heat, and chemicals ensures that the belt lasts longer even in tough industrial conditions, saving me time and money on frequent replacements.

In short, rubber’s combination of strength, flexibility, and resistance makes it the perfect material for conveyor belts, and my experience confirms that using rubber belts leads to more reliable and efficient conveyor operations.

My Buying Guides on Rubber For Conveyor Belt

When I first started looking for rubber for my conveyor belt, I quickly realized that not all rubber materials are created equal. Choosing the right rubber can significantly impact the durability, efficiency, and safety of your conveyor system. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying rubber for a conveyor belt.

1. Understand the Types of Rubber

There are several types of rubber used in conveyor belts, such as natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, and EPDM. I found that natural rubber is great for general-purpose use because of its excellent abrasion resistance and flexibility. However, if your conveyor handles oils or chemicals, nitrile rubber might be better due to its resistance to oils and fuels.

2. Consider the Application Environment

I always assess the environment where the conveyor belt will operate. Is it exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, chemicals, or heavy abrasion? For example, EPDM rubber works well in outdoor or wet environments because of its weather and ozone resistance. On the other hand, if my conveyor belt is in a high-temperature setting, I look for rubber compounds that can withstand heat without degrading.

3. Evaluate Thickness and Hardness

The thickness of the rubber affects the belt’s durability and flexibility. Thicker rubber provides better protection against impact and wear but may reduce flexibility. Hardness is measured in durometer; a higher durometer means harder rubber. I choose a hardness level based on the material being transported — softer rubber for fragile items and harder rubber for heavy, abrasive materials.

4. Check for Abrasion and Wear Resistance

Abrasion resistance is crucial because conveyor belts often carry rough or sharp materials. I look for rubber compounds specifically formulated to resist wear and tear. This helps extend the belt’s lifespan and reduces maintenance costs.

5. Assess Chemical and Oil Resistance

If my conveyor belt is exposed to oils, solvents, or chemicals, I ensure the rubber is chemically resistant. Some rubbers degrade quickly when exposed to such substances, leading to premature failure.

6. Look for Certification and Quality Standards

I always check if the rubber complies with relevant industry standards, such as ISO or ASTM certifications. This reassures me about the quality and performance consistency of the product.

7. Consider Cost vs. Longevity

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest rubber available, but from my experience, investing a bit more upfront in higher-quality rubber pays off in the long run due to fewer replacements and downtime.

8. Consult with Manufacturers or Experts

When in doubt, I reach out to rubber suppliers or conveyor manufacturers. They can provide valuable insights tailored to my specific conveyor system and operational needs.

Final Thoughts

Buying rubber for a conveyor belt isn’t just about picking any rubber sheet or roll. It’s about understanding your operational environment, the materials you’re conveying, and the rubber’s properties. By keeping these factors in mind, I’ve been able to select rubber that enhances my conveyor’s performance and reliability.

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.