A device for processing of flat elements, especially for the processing of paper blanks, is described. This device comprises a conveyor belt (25) that is guided over a first roller (12a) and a second roller (12b), said conveyor belt being made of metal and being permeable to air, wherein its upper section forms the transport section (25a) and its lower section forms the return section (25b), and a vacuum generator being located under the upper section of the conveyor belt. A laser (30) for cutting the flat elements is located above the transport section (25a). In order to achieve an improved flatness and an increased durability, the conveyor belt (25) consists of an expanded metal.