Advantages of Using Flat Belts

All Loderway systems can be retro-fitted into existing buildings; almost impossible with competing systems without significant structural alterations. LTS also believes that there is good reason to think that the single speed Loderway should become the system of choice for slow speed systems used as ramps, or for distances too short to warrant accelerating systems. We base our opinion on the following logic.

1. In moving walkway systems, which use belts with ribs and combs, the belts must track exactly or the combs damage the ribs.
2. Thin belts track perfectly satisfactorily, but not exactly enough to mesh with metal combs where even a very slight lateral movement will severely damage the belt.
3. Therefore systems using ribs and combs have not been able to take advantage of the very high capabilities of modern thin slider belts, which are used throughout industry and in baggage handling.
4. Ribs and combs can now be dispensed with if the patented Loderway end plate is used, opening the way to the use of high technology slider belts.
5. Slider belts do not subject passengers to the slight bounce experienced by roller-supported belts, whether the rollers are across the belt or along the edge.
6. Slider belts are as solid under the feet as metal pallet systems, but with a non-slip surface, which is very important for systems operating on a slope
7. The cost of power for a slider system is small; about 1.0 kW hours to move 1000 people for 100 metres at 0.6 m/sec. Even if roller systems used no power the penalty for a slider system is very small.
8. The Loderway system is much cheaper to install, with a maximum system depth below the belt of only 250 mm. It is therefore also very easy to retrofit, or install below floor level.  
9. The Loderway end plate is much safer than the current rib and comb solution, which is the cause of a number of walkway accidents.
10. The Loderway single speed system is simpler than other systems and easier to install, and will therefore be cheaper.

In summary, compared to existing systems, a single speed Loderway is safer, more comfortable, cheaper and able to be retro-fitted.