For many firms, conveyor belts and systems are an excellent logistical tool since they help move things accurately and efficiently. Conveyor systems are heavily relied upon, thus it’s essential to maintain them well in order to maximise output and prevent any major repairs.
6 Belt Conveyor Maintenance Tips To Increase Longevity
Check for Belt Slippage and Pulley Alignment
It is crucial to make sure that the pulleys are properly aligned because they are the main parts that ensure the belt drives smoothly. A belt will experience uneven tension on one side and wear out more quickly if it is not aligned with the pulley.
Slippage, where the torque exceeds the friction between the belt and the pulley and causes the belt to slide back slightly, is another issue that shortens the lifespan of a belt. Manufacturers must avoid overloading the conveyor and take correct pulley alignment into account in order to mitigate this.
Track New Belts When Needed
Be sure the new conveyor belt tracks just as well as the old one before replacing an old, worn-out one. In its simplest form, tracking can be described as the capacity to keep a conveyor belt under proper control and on the desired path. Because most new belts don’t track as well as the older ones, businesses should make sure to track the new belt on the system by running it slowly and making the necessary changes.
Maintain and clean the idlers
Idlers are frequently an under-utilised component of a conveyor system that over time can get dirty and worn out. The idlers may become misaligned or cease to operate for a variety of reasons, including improper cleaning, frequent machine action, or variations in the product loads. As a result, defective idlers might cause your conveyor belts to age prematurely. Idler maintenance and repair should therefore be a top concern.
Check Bearings More Often
The conveyor system has numerous tiny bearings that are employed in the take-up and snub rollers, drive pulleys, and end rollers. Hence, any repairs to this part could result in excessive friction between the belt and the pulley, hastening their wear. Therefore, it is important to frequently check them for signs of excessive noise or residue buildup, which are indicators of a worn-out bearing. It is preferable to replace the rollers rather than individual bearings if the bearings have reached the end of their useful life.
Maintain the motor and belt clean.
Conveyor belts and motors should also be cleaned completely to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris, a straightforward chore that is sometimes forgotten. Check and clean the belts’ undersides on a regular basis because any buildup of debris there can cause slippage. Thus, choosing a system with belt scrapers or lifters is preferred. The fan vents of a motor will eventually become blocked by dust, which can cause it to overheat. Generally, maintaining regular cleanliness makes it simple to avoid serious issues.
Prioritize Spare Parts Storage
Businesses like to keep replacement conveyor belts in stock so they may replace them at a moment’s notice in order to minimise downtime. But inefficient storage in these places can make the whole thing pointless. Thus, businesses should highlight how to store spare belts. Little belts, for instance, must be sealed in plastic and shielded from sunshine and moisture. On the other hand, in order to prevent wicking and moisture absorption, big belts should be set on skids. In addition to the belts, it is advisable to stock the belt conveyors’ motors, pulleys, and various rollers locally to further minimise downtime.
So, your chances of lengthening the lifespan of your conveyor belt by implementing these tips increase tremendously.
Conclusion
Contact the professionals at Vishvakarma Equipments for the best, customised conveyor solutions. With decades of experience in this area, we have given businesses across India complete conveyor solutions. To find out more about what we can do for you, contact us right away!
