Ashworth was recently granted a US patent for manufacturing Omni-Pro conveyor belts featuring zerotension, 360° buttonless welds, which are stronger and easier to clean than conventional bridge-welded belts. The buttonless welds are produced with an automated process that positions each rod, then melts and fuses the rod and link together to create strong and smooth welds. Omni-Pro belts are capable of withstanding the highest loads in their class. Also the buttonless weld is free from surface imperfections and crevices, eliminating bacteria entrapments and improving cleaning characteristics. In addition to the patented welding process, Omni-Pro’s state-of-the-art link design includes a patented “wear shield leg” that prevents welds from contacting spiral cage bars and permits the belt to run smoother with less cage bar wear. Ashworth now offers the all-stainless-steel Omni-Pro belt in ¾-, 1-, 1.2- and 1½-in. pitch options with turn ratios ranging from 1.6 to 2.8 and belt widths from 12 to 60 in. Phone (800) 682-4594; Webwww.ashworth.com