For a conveyor system to work, you need to regularly examine and maintain it. If not properly monitored for signs of trouble, this could lead to some serious problems. To keep products moving, you want to start with the best equipment sold through a trusted industrial conveyor manufacturer.
Depending on your needs, you can purchase an entire system, or if you already have one, just a component. The other option is to work directly with one of the reputable conveyor belt manufacturers in Canada for that specific part. Either way, you’ll have reliable and high-performing equipment.
Tension Issues With Industrial Conveyor Belts
Fortunately, not many things go wrong with conveyor belts. However, the one issue that crops up the most has to do with tension. The goal is to get the setting right, so the belt provides appropriate friction. That way, it can support boxes and packages of different sizes, shapes, and weights. Even if off a little bit, improper tension can have a big impact on the conveying process.
Staying on Top of Belt Maintenance
A trusted industrial conveyor manufacturer suggests that businesses create an in-house maintenance schedule. Now, they can always hire an outside professional for this, and they should. Even then, it’s important to look for factors that could compromise the conveyor’s operations. Some of these include:
- Fraying
- Splits in the belt’s material
- Worn surface
Identifying any one of these is easy. In comparison, it’s more challenging to determine if there’s an issue with the belt’s tension.
Why Belt Tension Matters
Top-rated conveyor belt manufacturers explain why having the right belt tension is critical. If the tension’s too high, any of the following could occur:
- Wear and tear on the belt, shafts, and various components such as the bearings
- Conveyor belt slippage
On the other hand, if the tension’s too low on industrial conveyor belts, the following could happen:
- Lagging pulleys
- Premature belt failure
- Improper tracking
Either way, this would slow production down. That means that manufacturing companies can’t meet their customers’ demands, which puts their operations at risk.
So, what’s the right setting? According to respected conveyor belt manufacturers, the goal is to set the tension as low as possible but not to the point of the belt slipping. Maintaining a low tension will allow the belt to do its job and last longer.
Summing It Up
If you have concerns about the belt on your company’s conveyor system, look specifically for these things. If you notice any of them, either adjust the tension yourself or turn to a trusted source for assistance.
- The belt’s lacing pulls out due to high tension
- Belt residue found underneath the conveyor showing improper tracking
- Curling or cupping of the edges of the belt also indicates improper tracking
- Periodic stalls of the belt, which equates to inadequate tension
- Squealing noise –not only does this show improper tracking but also excessive tension
If you have any questions or need help with a new belt or conveyor system, contact us at Conovey. We are a trusted industrial conveyor manufacturer.