Here are common methods to solve conveyor belt deviation:
1. Adjustment of conveyor components
– Roller adjustment
– Carrying idlers: If the belt deviates to one side, slightly shift the idlers on that side towards the direction of the belt movement. For example, if the belt is deviating to the right, move the right – hand side idlers forward in the direction of belt travel. This change in the idler angle can guide the belt back to the center.
– Return idlers: Similar to carrying idlers, misalignment of return idlers can also cause deviation. Adjust their position to correct the belt path.
– Self – aligning idlers: These idlers are designed to automatically correct belt deviation. Check if they are functioning properly. If debris is stuck or they are damaged, clean or replace them to ensure their self – alignment mechanism works effectively.
– Pulley adjustment
– Drive pulley: If the belt is slipping or deviating due to misalignment of the drive pulley, adjust its position. The pulley should be perpendicular to the conveyor frame. Loosen the bolts fixing the pulley, and re – position it carefully. Ensure that the tension on both sides of the belt is equal when the pulley is adjusted.
– Tail pulley: Similar to the drive pulley, the tail pulley’s alignment is crucial. If the belt is deviating, adjust the tail pulley to make it parallel to the drive pulley. This can be done by adjusting the position of the bearing housings supporting the tail pulley.
2. Belt – related solutions
– Belt tension adjustment
– Proper tension: Use a belt tension meter to measure the tension of the conveyor belt. If the tension is too low, the belt may sag and deviate. Increase the tension by adjusting the take – up device. This can be a screw – type, gravity – type, or hydraulic take – up. On the other hand, excessive tension can also cause problems such as accelerated wear and tear. Adjust the tension to the manufacturer – recommended value.
– Belt repair and replacement
– Damage inspection: Regularly inspect the belt for any signs of damage such as cuts, tears, or uneven wear. If the belt edges are frayed or damaged, it can cause deviation. Repair small damages using appropriate belt repair kits. For more severe damage, replace the belt to ensure proper operation.
– Belt joint alignment: When joining the belt ends, ensure that the joint is made accurately. A misaligned joint can cause the belt to deviate. Use proper jointing techniques, such as vulcanization or mechanical fastening, and ensure that the joint is straight and in line with the belt’s running direction.
3. Conveyor system design and installation improvement
– Frame alignment: Check the alignment of the entire conveyor frame. The frame should be straight and level. If the frame is skewed, it will cause the belt to deviate. Use laser – based alignment tools to check and adjust the frame. Ensure that the supports and legs of the conveyor are firmly fixed and do not move during operation.
– Loading improvement: The way materials are loaded onto the conveyor can affect belt deviation. Ensure that the material is evenly distributed across the width of the belt. Use feed chutes and spreaders to control the flow of materials. If the material is loaded off – center, it will cause the belt to deviate. Also, avoid over – loading the conveyor, as this can cause excessive stress and deviation.