---
title: How To Gradually Transition The Conveyor Belt From Flat To Troughed
description: Learn how to optimize conveyor belt performance with strategically placed transition idlers. Ensure smooth belt transitions and stable operation.
---

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# How To Gradually Transition The Conveyor Belt From Flat To Troughed

## Best Practices for Installing Transition Idlers in Conveyor Systems

[Depending on the distance](https://foundations.martin-eng.com/en/knowledge/conveyor-belt-transition-distance?hsLang=en), it is advisable to use one or more transitional idlers to support the belt between the terminal pulley and the first fully-troughed idler. It is recommended to install multiple transition idlers to help the belt transition gradually from a [flat profile to a fully troughed contour](https://foundations.martin-eng.com/en/knowledge/conveyor-belts-flat-and-troughed?hsLang=en). These transition idlers can be manufactured with specific intermediate angles between flat and fully troughed, or they can be adjustable to accommodate different positions.

For instance, good practice involves placing a 20-degree troughing idler as a transition idler ahead of a 35-degree troughing idler, and both a 20-degree and a 35-degree idler in front of a 45-degree idler. According to CEMA, all transition idlers should use metal rollers. Furthermore, it is crucial for the stability of the belt and the effectiveness of the transfer point sealing that the transition idler closest to the terminal pulley be installed so that the top of the pulley and the top of the idler’s center roll are aligned in the same horizontal plane. This alignment is known as a full-trough transition.

 

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