How to patch a rubber conveyor belt – step-by-step guide to quick and durable repair
Conveyor belts are an indispensable part of operations in many industries – and downtime due to belt damage can quickly become an expensive affair. Fortunately, there is an effective solution that does not require external assistance: a rubber belt repair kit.
In this guide, we show you how to patch a damaged conveyor belt yourself with a complete patch kit. Step-by-step and with a focus on both safety and durability. Whether you work in manufacturing, agriculture, waste management or construction, here you will get a practical method to minimize downtime and extend the life of your conveyor equipment.
Before you start – checklist
Make sure you have the following ready:
✔ Patch kit (patches, sanding disc, glue/cold adhesive, hardener, brushes, hand roller)
✔ Protective equipment (gloves, goggles, respirator)
✔ Cleaning agent (e.g. cleaning fluid)
✔ Marker/white touch and measuring tape
✔ An angle grinder with adjustable speed for mounting the sanding disc
Step 1: Turn off the conveyor/conveyor and mark
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Stop the conveyor belt and make sure the area is safe to work on. This means that the power is completely turned off and you have made a note that it must not be started again as long as you are working on the belt. Remember to take your safety very seriously.
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Mark the damaged area and measure the required patch size. The patch should always cover the damage with at least 2-3 cm overlap all the way around.
Step 2: Prepare the surface
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Clean the area thoroughly with detergent to remove grease, dust and dirt.
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Sand the surface with a sanding disc – preferably an angle grinder. Sand until you have a rough and uniform surface, slightly larger than the patch itself.
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Clean again to remove sanding dust.
Step 3: Apply glue
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Mix glue and hardener – follow the instructions.
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Apply the first layer of glue with a brush to both the tape and the back of the patch. Cover the entire area evenly.
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Let the glue dry until it is tacky to the touch (min. 30-45 minutes – depending on temperature and humidity).
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Apply another layer of glue and let it dry again to the tack-free point.
Step 4: Place and secure the patch
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Place the patch precisely over the damaged area.
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Use the hand roller and roll thoroughly from the center outwards to remove air bubbles and ensure maximum adhesion.
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Give it all a thorough press – use extra weight if possible.
Step 5: Curing and restart
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Allow the repair to cure for a minimum of 2 hours before light loading – and up to 24 hours before full loading is recommended for best results.
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Check the edges of the patch – there should be no loose areas or air pockets.
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Restart the conveyor carefully and monitor the repair for the first few minutes.

Tips for long shelf life
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Do not use patches in areas with direct contact with belt scrapers.
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Store glue and patches cool and dry.
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Consider routine belt checks for minor damage and preventive patching. You may also want to use our free service checklist, which you can download here.