Which grape harvester belt should you choose?

The grape harvesting season is quite short, and you can't allow for any problems that could cause a delay in bringing in your harvest. If you are working a large vineyard, then you are probably relying on machinery to transfer the grapes in the short available time. Grape harvester belts are by far the most effective way to ensure the minimal amount of damage to your crop and to be certain that the maximum amount of juice reaches the processing plant.

Do you need a replacement belt?

Grape harvester belts are a valuable part of your harvesting equipment, but what do you do if you need to purchase a replacement belt? There are plenty of belts available, and picking the most appropriate belt for your needs isn't always an easy task.

Your grape harvest is delicate, and it is imperative that your chosen belt is able to transport your harvest smoothly without risking any quality loss on the way to the processing plant. When choosing a belt, you must consider the way each belt will convey the grapes and whether the belt is a good fit for your harvesting needs.

What will your belt look like?

Consider whether you are selecting a discharge, transfer, cross feed, or pick up belt, and then when you have narrowed the selection to the appropriate type of belt, start to focus on the specifics of the belt construction. What material is the belt is made from? Is it rubber or PVC? What does the top cover cleating look like? Does the top cover edge profile seem suitable? How does the bottom cover tracking strip meet your expectations? These are the factors that will decide whether or not a grape harvester belt is right for your vineyard.

Don't let your shafts snap

Not all potential problems with your belt may be immediately obvious. One of the biggest problems that can occur with grape harvester belts is caused by absorption of the grape juice into the belt, causing belt shrinkage. If the shrinkage is not dealt with it, will ultimately result in the snapping of your shafts as the belt pulls tighter and tighter around the shaft. One of the easiest ways to prevent this problem occurring is to purchase a belt with a custom fabric carcass that is specially designed to stop absorption of the grape juice.

By taking the time to think through the potential problems that can occur with your grape harvester belts, you will be able to make the right choice and select a belt that will provide a long service life in your vineyard.