Perforated: The hinge plates have a pattern of holes and "dimples". The holes allow the coolant to drain from the belt and reduces the amount of coolant carried out of the machine. This belt type is ideal for most steel applications and other materials where large quantities of fine chips are not present. Commonly used on lathes.

Double Perforated: These hinge plates eliminate the dimples and instead have a pattern of twice as many holes. This is typically used with higher viscosity cutting fluids, such as cutting oil, to allow for the slower draining time of these fluids.

Non-Perforated: These hinge plates have no holes at all, only dimples. This is used when lots of fine chips are present (brass, aluminum, etc.) to reduce the number of fines washing through the belt into the coolant sump. Many machining centers use this type belt.