Conveyor Belt is a critical material handling system that is designed to move materials, supplies and components by using an effortless and efficient process that not only saves time but also ensures energy and cost efficiency. The design of the belt comprises two motorized pulleys with the conveyor material looped over them.
The use of conveyor belts is many and there are different varieties that serve the purpose of transporting goods and materials along a continuous moving route. Even though motorized conveyor belts are the traditional and most popularized form of a conveying system, there are conveyor belts that are without motors and instead use rollers for the movement of materials.
Conveyor belt splicing is a common procedure performed where two pieces of the belt are joined together. This process is initiated either to add length to the original conveyor belt or to repair a damaged or torn belt. The splicing method is carried out by utilizing splicing chemicals or mechanical procedures.
Continue to read till the end to know more about conveyor belts and conveyor belt splicing methods.
The Work Mechanism of Conveyor Belts
As we can figure out that the use of conveyor belts is essential to various industrial operations, very little is known about the overall work mechanism of conveyor belts. A conveyor belt typically has a large wide belt that resembles a big rubber band that’s attached to rollers so as to give it the shape of a loop.
This is entirely powered by a motor. The loop shape that is created with the conveyor belt is made up of different types of durable and sturdy materials for performing the function of transporting materials.
Let us dissect the varied components in a conveyor belt and how they function for contributing to the overall working mechanism of this system.
Motor
The main function of the motor on a conveyor belt system is to turn the rotors that helps the conveyor belt to move. There is an ample amount of friction that happens in between the rotor and the belt so that the belt sticks to the rotor.
The consistent turning motion of the rotors results in one side of the belt to move in one direction whereas the other side moves in the opposite direction. The varied motions of the belt enable to produce movement of the conveyor belt.
Rollers
Rollers are there to give support for the materials that are on the conveyor belt as they move along the belt and offer the much-needed support when it returns. The roller’s center shaft contains a spring retained axle that is utilized for installing and removing it.
The location and positioning of the rollers helps in reducing the amount of power that is needed by the motor for moving the conveyor belt.
Pulleys
Pulleys are another component that are positioned on either ends of the conveyor belt or close to the drive motor. The drive pulley triggers the conveyor belt and it has external bearings that are operated by a motor and a reducer.
Pulleys can either be crowned or flat faced and to reduce the effect of belt spillage, have the lagging as well. Tail or return pulley helps in redirecting the belt back into the drive pulley and is placed at the end of the conveyor bed. The primary function of tail pulleys is to give tension in the conveyor belt.
Conveyor Belt
Now there are many types, sizes, angles, shapes and materials of conveyor belts available. The design and type of the belt is determined by the conveyor system’s intended functions and it is assembled to transport materials or goods from one place to another.
Understanding the Conveyor Belt Splicing Method
Now, as we’ve discussed before, that conveyor belt splicing method is performed when there is the need to elongate the belt or repair the belt if it suffered any damage. The splicing method is done by using several splicing chemicals or by mechanical procedures.
Below are the two popular splicing methods that are usually utilized today.
Vulcanization
Vulcanization is a much more complex procedure that is carried out by using heat and/or cold chemicals. This method not only has the need of specific temperature, equipment dwell time and compression but also requires special tools, expertise and controlled, clean environment.
The vulcanizing of the belt takes several hours to get completed while at the same time also has the need for meticulous preparation prior to the process. Vulcanization has two types which are – Hot and Cold.
Mechanical Splicing
It is a more versatile solution that utilizes a mechanical fastener system for making reliable joints. Unlike vulcanization, it doesn’t require any specific environmental condition to be maintained, therefore, making them more flexible.
This method is suitable for all types of belts, no matter what their length, thickness, width and tension is. Mechanical fasteners can be installed rapidly by just use of a hammer or with an advanced installation tool.
With the use of mechanical splicing, users can reduce belt waste and can be suitably used for new and older worn-out belts.
To get more information on conveyor belts and conveyor belt splicing solutions, get in touch with our experts at Dutco Tennant LLC now.
