Belt conveyors are essential tools in mining. They are used to transport ore from crushing stations to the processing plant, or even from the extraction area to the crushing station. Like all equipment, they wear out and require daily, weekly and even annual maintenance.
Let’s explore these different operations together.
Daily conveyor maintenance checklist
Perform the following maintenance checks on a daily basis, during normal operation:
- Visually inspect for debris stuck in the conveyor mechanism.
- Check for unusual noise during normal conveyor operation.
- Visually inspect for cuts or bruises on conveyor belt.
- Take note of any belt slippage or material spillage.
Weekly conveyor maintenance checklist
Perform the following maintenance checks weekly, when the conveyor system is idle:
- Lubricate roller bearings.
- Scrape parts of the conveyor mechanism to remove debris and foreign objects.
- Check for damages to conveyor belt and rollers.
- Check whether materials are unloading properly from the conveyor mechanism.
- Retrieve and clean dust containment system (it can accumulate debris and other undesirable foreign objects).
Monthly conveyor maintenance checklist
Schedule planned downtime on a monthly basis to perform the following activities:
- Repair damages to conveyor belt according to the instructions from OEMs and vendors.
- Change oil or other lubricant in the gearbox and power module.
- Replace worn out brushes and scrapers.
- Have a detailed inspection of the belt and conveyor system when the conveyor is shut down and empty.
- Inspect electrical components for damages or faults. Replace/repair them if needed.
- Inspect mechanical components and replace them if necessary.
