Belt conveyor parts and their functions | Blog Rulmeca

29 Apr.,2024

 

Belt conveyor parts and their functions | Blog Rulmeca

Main belt conveyor parts and functions

Conveyor systems consist of a belt stretched across and wrapped around two or more pulleys (or drums) and powered by an electric drive unit. The belt can slide over a flat surface or can be supported by appropriate rollers. However, in some specific unit handling applications, a series of parallel rollers can be right used as transportation surface resulting in the so-called roller conveyors. In more complex equipment, additional devices or accessories are needed to further improve the whole performance. Of course, the specification of a conveyor depends on the type of application and transported material. With a wide-ranging expertise, Rulmeca designs and manufactures belt conveyor parts specifically intended to either bulk or unit handling conveyors.

You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.

Bulk handling conveyors

Bulk handling requires strong and resistant conveyors able to move large volumes of heavy loads and resist to abrasive and corrosive materials and environmental conditions. Rulmeca belt conveyor parts meet all needed specifications to ensure an optimal performance in such conditions.

Rulmeca motorized pulleys are the electric drive components used to transfer the required power to activate the belt conveyor. The electric motor, gear box and bearings are totally enclosed and hermetically sealed inside a steel cylindrical shell, resulting in a compact, safe and efficient. In addition, Rulmeca provides idler pulleys to be positioned throughout the frame to redirect, turn, tension or track the belt so it follows the desired path during conveying.

Among essential belt conveyor parts for bulk handling, rollers play a crucial role as they support the belt, assist it to stay on course and not sag keeping materials in place. Rulmeca proposes different series of rollers able to rotate freely and easily under any type and volume of bulk materials. In addition, Rulmeca provides different types and configurations of belt conveyor idlers: one or more rollers supported or suspended by appropriate frames and transoms with the function of supporting the belt and conveyed materials along its full length preventing it from stretching, bending and failing.

Finally, additional accessories can be integrated in more complex conveyors to further improve their performance and increase their life expectancy. To this end, Rulmeca provides belt cleaners, belt convers and impact bars.

Unit handling conveyors

Depending on the specific circumstances of the application, the numerous industries dealing with unit loads handling can rely on both belt and roller conveyors. In any case, the aim is to guarantee a continuous, safe and high performance to achieve dynamics requirements. Rulmeca range of products include all needed roller and belt conveyor parts.

Rulmeca drum motors, in their different configurations, are the ideal driving components for any type of belt and non-belt conveyor to move light, medium and heavy unit loads. With a higher efficiency and a compact hermetically enclosed design they perfectly and safely operate in any industrial application. Among drive components for unit handling applications, the most innovative and cost-effective solution is Rulmeca Drive Roller (RDR), our electrically-safe, silent and compact motorized roller able to activate a conveyor system without requiring further drive units.

The wider and most flexible assortment of Rulmeca unit handling components concerns conveyor rollers. Thanks to the availability of curve, gravity, chain driven and belt driven roller conveyors, customers can realize different configurations according to their specific needs: powered and non-powered conveyors horizontal, inclined and curvilinear conveyors.

The Basic Components of a Belt Conveyor System

A belt conveyor system functions as a critical mechanical apparatus facilitating the continuous movement of materials from one point to another. Operating on the principle of an endless loop created by a flexible belt stretched over a series of pulleys, the motion is provided by a drive motor. 

This versatile conveyor system finds applications across diverse industries, including manufacturing, warehouse management, packaging, mining, and food processing.

The Role of Belt Conveyors in Logistics and Warehousing

Efficiency, speed and precision in the modern logistics and warehousing industry is paramount. Belt conveyors are a great way to optimise material handling processes, offering a versatile and reliable solution to the complex challenges faced by logistics professionals and warehouse managers.

Belt conveyors serve as the backbone of material handling systems in logistics and warehousing. These systems facilitate the seamless movement of goods, packages, and materials throughout various stages of the supply chain. The continuous and automated nature of belt conveyors allows for a smooth flow of items, minimising the need for manual intervention and reducing the risk of errors. This efficiency is particularly crucial in large-scale distribution centres and warehouses where the timely movement of goods directly impacts operational success.

With the ever growing online e-commerce sectors and businesses such as Amazon that offer next day and even same day delivery in certain cases, consumer expectation for quick deliveries are higher than ever, incorporating belt conveyors in order fulfilment will make a significant improvement to efficiency and client satisfaction.

These conveyors play a key role in sorting and transporting products to designated areas for packaging and shipping. By automating the order fulfilment process, belt conveyors contribute to faster turnaround times, increased order accuracy, and improved customer satisfaction.

Versatility in Handling Diverse Products & Space Optimisation

Logistics and warehouse operations manage a diverse range of products, each differing in size, shape, and weight. Conveyor belts are designed and manufactured to be versatile, ensuring efficient handling of various product types. 

These systems cater to a wide spectrum of items, from small packages to bulky or delicate goods. To meet the unique requirements of each item, conveyor systems can be customised with various belt types, widths, and configurations, ensuring optimal transport and handling.

Belt conveyors are space-efficient solutions that make the most of available warehouse space. In contrast to traditional manual handling methods or static storage systems, conveyor systems allow for a more compact and dynamic layout. This optimisation of space is crucial in crowded distribution centres where maximising storage capacity and minimising travel distances can significantly enhance overall efficiency.

Components of a Belt Conveyor System

Belting

The conveyor belt acts as the primary moving carrier, facilitating the material’s journey through the handling system. Mde from materials like rubber, PVC, urethane, leather, or other substances tailored to specific applications, the belt selection involves key considerations such as strength, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and the need for resistance to factors like oil or heat.

 

Carcass

Internal reinforcement plies, often made of materials like nylon, cotton, or steel cord, provide essential tensile strength.

Covers

Outer layers that protect the carcass. The properties are determined by the rubber compound type.

Cleats

Lugs attached or extruded on the belt surface to grip materials during transportation.

Supporting Components

Belt conveyors incorporate various supporting components to maintain belt alignment, guide material, and reduce wear and tear.

Pulleys

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Joyroll.

Cylindrical wheels supporting and guiding the belt. Drive pulleys are powered, while idlers rotate freely on bearings.

Impact Beds

Cushion idler sets designed to absorb impact and prevent belt damage from large falling materials.

Skirting

Containers along the belt edges to prevent spillage and guide material placement. Rubber or urethane skirting is often used for abrasion resistance.

Scrapers

Blades pressed against pulleys to clean and prevent the buildup of conveyed materials.

Drive and Structural Elements

These components form the framework and power transmission system.

Conveyor Frame

Provides support for mounting the belt, pulleys, and accessories. It can be modular or customised in steel or aluminium designs.

Drive

The power source, which can be an electric motor, hydraulic motor, or pneumatic cylinder, propelling the drive pulley through a gear reducer.

Take-up Device

Facilitates adjustments in belt tension for proper power transmission and tracking.

Guarding

Enclosures that surround dangerous pinch points and rotating parts for safety, typically in modular panel form.

Idlers

These are essential components placed along the conveyor path to support the belt and provide a smooth transition between the pulleys.

Chutes

Designed for the controlled discharge of materials, chutes play a crucial role in guiding materials from the conveyor belt to their intended destination.

Belting Fasteners

These secure the ends of the conveyor belt, ensuring a continuous loop and allowing for easy maintenance and replacement.

Drive Pulley

Connected to the drive, the drive pulley imparts motion to the conveyor belt, enabling the material’s continuous transport

Take-up Mechanism

Maintains proper tension in the conveyor belt, ensuring optimal performance and preventing slippage or mistracking.

At L-A-C we understand how each component works and depending on your requirements, we can design bespoke conveyor systems that ensure efficient material transport tailored to your specific application demands. 

Troubleshooting and Solutions

Should issues arise with conveyor belts, L-A-C’s technical experts offer invaluable assistance in resolving problems including wear, mistracking, damage, jamming, or noise. 

By diagnosing the issue, they recommend conveyor belt solutions to restore performance and reliability, ensuring a seamless and efficient operation of conveyor systems. For any conveyor-related challenges, L-A-C stands as a reliable partner, committed to enhancing the functionality of material handling processes.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Conveyor Components. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.