Overview
ISO 21183-2:2018 is an international standard that provides a multilingual list of equivalent terms specific to light conveyor belts. It defines terminology and translations to harmonize vocabulary used in design, procurement and documentation for conveyors that transport unit loads (parcels, boxes, luggage, foodstuffs, etc.). The second edition (2018) expanded the language coverage by adding Japanese equivalents. The official ISO terms are given in English, French and Russian; equivalent entries in German, Spanish, Italian and Japanese are included under the responsibility of the respective member bodies (DIN, AENOR, UNI, JISC).
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: establishes standardized terms and definitions applicable exclusively to light conveyor belts (indoor unit-load conveyors).
- Terms and definitions: provides a clear definition of "light conveyor belt" and related vocabulary to reduce ambiguity in technical communication.
- Multilingual equivalent table: a comprehensive table listing equivalent terminology in English, French, Russian, German, Spanish, Italian and Japanese (examples include abrasion resistance, belt speed, cleated belt, drive pulley, conveyor belt elongation).
- Editorial and normative notes: clarifies that only the terms in the three official ISO languages can be considered ISO terms; other language entries are published by national bodies.
- Non-normative: the document contains no normative references and focuses on harmonizing language rather than specifying performance metrics.
Practical applications
- Standardizes terminology for technical specifications, drawings and bills of materials used in conveyor design and manufacturing.
- Supports clear communication in international procurement and contract documents to avoid misunderstandings over component names and functions.
- Helps system integrators, OEMs and maintenance teams ensure consistent interpretation of operation and maintenance manuals.
- Aids translators and technical writers producing multilingual documentation for conveyor systems.
- Useful in training and quality assurance programs where consistent vocabulary improves safety and compliance.
Who should use this standard
- Conveyor and belt manufacturers, system integrators and OEMs
- Engineering and design teams specifying light conveyor systems
- Procurement and supply chain professionals involved in international trade
- Standards committees, technical translators and documentation specialists
Related standards
- ISO 21183-1 - provides additional information on applications of light conveyor belts.
- ISO 5284 - contains equivalent terms for conveyor belts in general; ISO 21183-2 covers terms specific to light conveyor belts that are absent or modified from ISO 5284.
Keywords: ISO 21183-2, light conveyor belts, equivalent terms, conveyor terminology, multilingual glossary, conveyor belt standard.
