Conveyor belts for people

A safety mechanism for person belt conveyors, also known as moving sidewalks, with high speed has been developed. The Norm DIN EN 15700 applies for this type of conveyor belt. To increase the speed from 0.7 m/s to 1.2 m/s, a new “safety exit” is necessary. It is located at the end of the drive station and must be designed in a way, that it is initiated at a maximum force of 50 N in the area of danger. The braking distance is 500mm. A safety zone has to be created for the passenger in order to not get injured. Different safety sensors are additionally used.  This kind of person belt conveyor is mainly used outside in the mountains. Because they are not only used in the wintertime, a safety exit needs to be guaranteed at all times. Different safety elements have been installed, among which plastic bearing materials made of iglidur® J are relevant: Low friction, high reliability, shock-proof, freedom from maintenance and suitable for temperatures from -25° C up to +40° C with dryness and humidity. First systems are already installed in France, and others all over Europe are planned or already under construction.