Hi Charles
I hope to be able to provide some guidance. Your problem is not unique, and there are many overland conveyors suffering from this disease. Of course, it is imperative that all the inserts be accurately identified, using the belt indent numbers. This will indicate how long they have been in operation for and will assist with planning the purchase of replacement belting. The typical steel cord reinforced belt, will now take 8 weeks to delivery, provided the cord diameter is available, otherwise it could go out to 22 weeks. Thus, to keep tabs on the belt thickness is essential as it is the primary wear indicator and will warn you when to place the order.
You mention numerous inserts. When inspecting the belt, it is important to consider the numerous splices, as this is where the risk lies. Any sign of delamination, or cords coming up out of the rubber, should get immediate attention.
REMA TIP TOP offers a service that measures belt thickness and also do an electromagnetic scan of the belt, reporting on the condition of the steel cords in the belt. Unfortunately, the equipment is not for sale, but scans can be done for customers on a once-off basis.
Cover grade selection is critical to the success of the operation. Several compound grades are available and would typically be selected based on the material handled, be it hard or soft rock, lump size, bulk density and drop height at the chute.
Cleaning regimes - Why do you have so much spillage? Should one not address the root cause? Work orders should be the way to go, as it then quantifies the money spent, and motivates management to rectify the real issue, such as the chute design, belt cleaner selection or loading area.
Belt tracking is an essay on its own. May I suggest you contact me directly at pauln@rematiptop.co.za, and we can discuss. We can also discuss general conveyor inspections and maintenance methods.
Regards
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Dr Paul Nel (CMRP)
REMA TIP TOP Afrique
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