A conveyor belt is a robust, electrically-powered system that transports bulk materials like ore, coal, and minerals from extraction points to processing plants or loading areas, both above and below ground. These specialized belts are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of mining, resisting impact, abrasion, and moisture, and often incorporate safety features like fire resistance.
Maintenance tips for belt conveyors include regular inspection, cleaning, alignment, lubrication, and proper tensioning to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Key maintenance tips for belt conveyors
- Regular cleaning: remove debris, contaminants, and material buildup from the belt surface and conveyor components to prevent excessive wear and slipping. Clean both the top and underside of the belt and conveyor rollers regularly.
- Proper belt tension: maintain correct belt tension to avoid belt slippage or over-tensioning, which can cause premature wear or damage. Adjust tension as needed to keep the belt running smoothly without slipping.
- Belt alignment and tracking: ensure pulleys and idlers are aligned and square with the belt path to prevent mistracking and uneven wear. Realign frame or adjust idlers if the belt runs off-center or tracks incorrectly.
- Inspection for wear and damage: check the belt for cuts, cracks, fraying, or splice issues regularly. Inspect pulleys, rollers, bearings, and fasteners for wear or damage and replace as needed to prevent failure.
- Lubrication of moving parts: lubricate roller bearings and other moving components to reduce friction and avoid seizure or excessive wear.
- Remove material buildup on pulleys/idlers: clean pulleys and idlers to avoid material accumulation that can cause belt slip or tracking issues.
- Storage and handling of spare belts: store spare belts properly in sealed plastic bags or on skids to protect from moisture, light exposure, and contamination, preserving belt quality.
- Routine preventative maintenance: schedule regular system audits, inspections, and cleaning to catch early signs of wear or problems before downtime occurs.
