What edge treatments are available for thick-film heating sintering furnace mesh belts?

Under continuous high temperature and tension, sintering furnace mesh belts experience a concentration of maximum principal stress at their edges due to geometric changes, becoming the primary source of fatigue cracks, misalignment, and wire drawing. Industrial practice shows that approximately 70% of mesh belt failures originate from edge defects.

To meet the stringent cleanliness, flatness, and life requirements of thick-film processes, the mainstream edge reinforcement solutions can be categorized into three types: interlocking hooks, welded rigidity, and U-shaped inserts.

1. Hook (Bending) Treatment

Method: Extend and bend the mesh belt edge strips into hook shapes, creating an interlocking structure (commonly known as "hooking").

Advantages: Enhanced edge tensile strength, preventing tearing at high temperatures; simple structure, and low cost.

Key Parameters: The hook length must match the mesh belt thickness, and the diagonal height must be symmetrical to prevent misalignment.

Note: For sintering furnace mesh belts with hook treatment, the hook bending process requires certain considerations. Using special tools for hook bending ensures consistent hook formation, maintains diagonal symmetry of the sintering furnace mesh belt, and prevents the belt from deviating.

2. Welding Reinforcement

Method: Fully weld the edges.

Advantages: High edge rigidity, suitable for high-load or high-speed operation.

Disadvantages: Welding joints that are not fully rounded can easily tear, shortening the life of the sintering furnace mesh belt.

Note: As the most commonly used edge method, direct welding can save labor time and further reduce mesh belt costs. However, the welding process requires not only the welder's skills but also strict requirements for the welding materials and welding gas used. A customer previously purchased a sintering furnace mesh belt from another mesh belt manufacturer. Due to inaccurate welding current parameters, the welds on the mesh belt developed roughness and burrs, causing scratches and wear on the material during loading and unloading.

3. U-shaped Edge Insertion

Method: Insert a U-shaped metal groove into the edge and press it securely.

Advantages: Protects edge wires from loosening, suitable for extra-wide belts (e.g., >1 meter).

Note: Ensure the thermal expansion coefficient of the U-groove matches the belt material (e.g., 310S + 310S combination).

Edge treatment accounts for less than 10% of the total belt cost, but determines 90% of the budget for deviation, breakage, and contamination. First, determine the operating conditions, then select the process, and finally, include key parameters in the drawings. This will turn a "minor edge issue" into a "major lifespan issue."