CONVEYOR BELTS IN THE FINISHING LINE: OPTIMISATION OF LEATHER TRANSFER FOR UNCOMPROMISED QUALITY

In the final stages of leather processing like finishing, where quality and uniformity are the result of a delicate balance between multiple operational phases, handling is a key element. The spray line and drying tunnel conveyors designed by Fratelli Carlessi fit into this context as a technologically advanced solution, designed to ensure process consistency, compliance with quality parameters and maximum efficiency.

More than just a means of transport, Carlessi conveyors are the result of a systematic design that combines engineering know-how, field experience and customisation capabilities. Each finishing line represents a unique production ecosystem: it is in this scenario that the technical and commercial advice offered by Fratelli Carlessi is fully appreciated, guiding the customer towards the most suitable solution, balancing operational requirements, product quality and cycle time optimisation.

One system, many configurations

Modularity is one of the main strengths of the Fratelli Carlessi systems.

The finishing lines can be configured with:

• Customised spray booths;

• Ventilated (TFC series) or radiant (TES series) drying tunnels;

• Post-tunnel conditioning systems;

• Single or multiple conveyors, connected by transfer bridges;

• Carousel or in-line configurations, even independent of each other.

All these options are integrated according to design logic aimed at synchronising the process: keeping the leather in the correct position during treatment, avoiding overlapping between leathers, ensuring uniform dwell times in the tunnels, and reducing machine downtime due to cleaning or colour changes.

Precision and continuity of flow

The leather is fed forward in a stable and progressive manner, thanks to various perlon strings designed to maintain constant alignment and adapt to specific production requirements. The speeds between the different modules are calibrated during the design phase, taking into account the characteristics of the finished product and the process parameters.

An important distinction is between single-conveyor systems and multi-conveyor solutions. The single conveyor, which runs across the entire line, allows a constant speed to be maintained, simplifying flow management and ensuring more linear operational continuity. In contrast, in multi-conveyor systems, each module requires a slightly higher speed than the previous one to avoid material accumulation or slippage. This involves greater design complexity but offers greater plant flexibility. The Fratelli Carlessi team's skill lies in designing and harmonising these steps perfectly, calibrating each transition to ensure maximum efficiency and quality.

Each conveyor can be equipped with automatic cleaning systems, which are essential accessories for preventing contamination and preserving the integrity of the hides. In addition, variants with mesh conveyors are available for special processes (such as TES tunnels), or solutions with integrated cooling in the exit sections.

Flexibility and customisation: the value of experience

Fratelli Carlessi does not offer standardised solutions, but tailor-made systems. The experience gained on hundreds of systems allows the design team to propose winning combinations even for very specific requirements: from research laboratories to large automated tanneries.

Thanks to an integrated view of the process, the Fratelli Carlessi team is able to assess the impact that each plant choice will have on the product and productivity: single belt or independent belts? Intermediate bridge or direct transfer? Alternative or rotary cabin? Each solution is the result of in-depth technical discussion, based on process data, available layout and production objectives.

One belt, many skills

At Fratelli Carlessi, talking about coveyors means talking about plant integration, listening to the customer and design expertise. It means considering every aspect: from the physical layout of the plants to the management of the operating conditions of the line, from operational ergonomics to ease of maintenance.

In this sense, the belt is not just a technical element, but a privileged point of access to the Fratelli Carlessi philosophy: an approach that combines engineering and practice, high quality standards and adaptability to the most diverse realities.

Investing in the right handling solution means laying solid foundations for a stable, repeatable and excellence-oriented finishing process. From this perspective, Fratelli Carlessi conveyors are not just components, but silent protagonists of uncompromising quality.