ContiTech introduces a low-solvent coating for V-ribbed belts

ContiTech produces its V-ribbed belts for vehicles now even more environmentally friendly.

The rubber specialist has developed a new production process, in which the textile flocking is ironed onto the V-ribbed belt Unipower Tough Grip. So far, the flock was applied with solvents on the belt – it can be largely dispensed with now. “This helps us to protect the environment because we save resources and achieve a better CO2 balance,” says Philip Nelles, Head of the ContiTech Power Transmission Group. “Our customers also benefit from an even higher availability, as the new procedure provides for faster throughput times in the V-ribbed belt production.”

The Unipower Tough Grip is one of the most important products of the ContiTech Power Transmission Group regarding automotive original equipment, an inclusion in the automotive aftermarket portfolio is planned as well. A special fabric-reinforced running side ensures low wear, optimum grip and maximum smoothness – even under extreme conditions such as cold start, moisture or pulley displacement. With the new manufacturing process for which six patents have been registered, ContiTech has further optimized the production of the quality belt. The ContiTech Power Transmission Group has thereby resorted to the expertise within the company and developed the new method in cooperation with colleagues from ContiTech Elastomer Coatings.

Meanwhile, several production sites in Germany, Romania and Mexico have changed the production process and improved their throughput times. In China, the new method will be introduced this year, further sites are going to follow.

The Unipower Tough Grip from ContiTech is among others used in vehicles of BMW and Ford. For its environmentally friendly production process, the V-ribbed belt has already been awarded with the Partslife Environmental Award 2015.