a drive sprocket for driving a modular belt having a plurality of belt modules with intercalated link ends connected by transverse pivot members to form hinges . the belt modules may have transverse ribs . the drive sprocket is driven by a shaft . the drive sprocket has a central opening for receiving the shaft . the body has a plurality of teeth disposed in pairs along a periphery of the body . the body has a first opening formed between adjacent pairs of teeth and extending toward the center of the sprocket to provide access to the hinge area , when the belt engages with the sprocket , for application of cleaning fluid .