On a conveyor surface, potential harborage points are numerous, including links, bends, etc. While smooth conveyor belts tend to be easier to clean, they also are easier to damage, i.e. fraying edges, gouges, etc. That damage becomes impossible to clean and sanitize, says Andrew Lorenz, founder and president of We R Food Safety, Menomonie, Wis.
“The primary issue the industry faces with conveyors is the time it takes to properly remove debris and then sanitize,” he says.