The flat belt technology is based on the high friction of the belt against the crowned belt pulleys, and the transmission only contains one belt. Common flat belt applications are separators, grinders, wood planers, fans, roller conveyors. The flat belt can also transmit power on both sides of the belt.

Belt types are: 1) Flat belts. 2) Rope drives. 3) Round belts. 4) Spring belts. 5) V belts. 6) Multi-groove belts. 7) Ribbed belts. There are five main materials that conveyor belts are made out of: thermoplastics, metal, rubber, fabric and leather.

The most common conveyor belts are general-use belts. These solid belts typically feature materials including rubber or a fabric such as nylon, polyester, neoprene, or nitrile. Belt properties determine the conveyor belt's primary applications.