1. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology
Edition
Conveyor Belting
Manual for
Mechanical Engineers
Continental Aktiengesellschaft
1
2.
3. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology
CONTI® Conveyor Belting
ContiTech manufactures Conveyor Belting for all branches of industry and
for a wide range of applications. The product range comprises Textile-Ply
and Steel Cable Conveyor Belts, as well as Special-Purpose Conveyor Belts
and a versatile range of accessories.
CONTI Conveyor Belt Edition
ContiTech issues a series of informative Conveyor Belt publications on
the subject of conveyor system engineering. Brochures published to date
contain a wealth of general and product-specific information, guidance on
conveyor belt installation and repair, technical data for conveyor system
design and application engineering, plus details on available accessories
and belt types. Other topics are currently in preparation.
Conveyor Belting Manual for Mechanical Engineers
This brochure is the first time concise documentation has been compiled
covering all aspects of a mechanical engineer's working environment.
A thorough understanding and careful monitoring of the system are
essential to ensure reliable operation of a conveyor belt line. Invaluable
information is provided on the structure of a conveyor belt, preparing the
site for belt installation, commissioning, operation, maintenance, repair and
seasonal system shutdown.
ContiTech
Advanced technology in rubber processing and manufacture
Worldwide application
Latest technology in production and development
3
4. Responsibilities of the mechanical engineer
Planning Ordering Installation
Conti offers Conti offers Conti offers
Product information Quality Engineers who provide
expert advice
Computer service Punctual order-servicing
System design data Site delivery
Comprehensive range
Technical advice Packaging
Your advantages are
Project studies
Pre-shipment release Your advantages are
Problem analysis
through a neutral body of Recommendations for
Research and development quality assurance optimum belt installation
Standardization engineers time and cost-saving
conformity with agreed
Your advantages are grades of quality Coordination of delivery
direct delivery of belt
Decision-making aids Monitoring of project to site; protection from
the right choice of belt schedules damage during
smooth timing transportation
Low-cost design
optimum economy
Effective standartization
less stock required
Smooth and clean
operation of the
conveyor system
minimal maintenace
5. Splicing Comissioning Inspection
Conti offers Conti offers Conti offers
Optimized splicing systems Belt approval Belt inspections
Splicing materials Troubleshooting guidance Repair service
Vulcanization Expert on-site advice Instruction and training
of vulcanizers and
Fundamental research maintenance staff
Your advantages are
Your advantages are Localization and
elemination of trouble Your advantages are
Splicing materials spots Expert opinions and
specially developed for limitation of damage reports
each belt type risk minimizing of overall risk
optimum strength
at splice Belt commissioning Assessment of the belt`s
without problems condition
Provision of latest minimum delay in systematic repairs
vulcanizing equipment starting conveyor service
uniform curing Repair materials to suit
each type of belt
Own fitters optimum service life
excellent knowledge of
materials and belts Trained maintenance staff
low-cost repairs
6. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology
Quality assurance Advisory service
at ContiTech at ContiTech
®
CONTI Conveyor Belting and CONTI's Application Engineers
Conveyor Belting Accessories are assist in determining the technically
state-of-the-art products in every and economically most suitable type
aspect of material specification and of CONTI product for the specific
product design. This is guaranteed application. Backed by the R & D
by Continental's in-house quality division of ContiTech, our consultants
assurance experts. All CONTI are able to provide not only the
products undergo rigid, independent optimum solution but one precisely
quality controls throughout and after tailored to end-product service
manufacturing to ensure uniformity requirements.
and a constant high standard of
technical excellence.
7. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology
Conveyor Belt Service
Conveyor Belting
Manual for
Mechanical Engineers
Edited by
Dr.-Ing. R. Alles
Dipl.-Ing. G. Böttcher
Obering. W. Ernst
Published by
Continental Aktiengesellschaft, Hannover, Germany
2nd Edition 1990
8. 1 Structure and identification 5 Commissioning _____________ 32
of conveyor belts _____________ 2 5.1 Tensionieng the belt_________________ 32
1.1 Tension members ____________________ 2 5.2 Starting the belt_____________________ 32
1.1.1 Conveyor belts with textile plies _________ 2 5.3 Training the belt ____________________ 33
1.1.2 Steel cable conveyor belts _____________ 5
1.2 Covers _____________________________ 6 6 Operation and problem solving _ 40
1.2.1 Cover thickness______________________ 6 6.1 Daily inspection of the conveyor belt;
1.2.2 Cover grade ________________________ 6 causes of belt damage _______________ 40
1.2.3 Cover reinforcement __________________ 8 6.2 Dai!y inspection of the system__________ 42
1.2.4 Cover patterns ______________________ 8
7 Maintenance and repair _______ 44
2 Ordering and storing _________ 12 7.1 Repair materials ____________________ 44
2.1 How to order conveyor belts ___________ 12 7.2 Repairing damage with
®
2.1.1 Example of how to order______________ 12 CONREMA repair materials___________ 46
2.1.2 Delivery of endless belts _____________ 12 7.2.1 Repairing damaged covers ___________ 46
2.2 Delivery and storage _________________ 13 7.2.2 Repairing penetrations and damage
2.2.1 Packaging _________________________ 13 to the fabric________________________ 48
Technical data for textile tension
members __________________________ 13 8 Seasonal shutdown and
Diagrams showing different roll winter operation _____________ 54
diameters ______________________ 14-17
2.2.2 Storage ___________________________ 18
Index _________________________ 56
3 Preparations for installation ___ 20
3.1 Preparing the structure _______________ 20
Drive pulley ________________________ 20 Conveyor belt systems -
Take-up station _____________________ 21 Troubleshooting guide
Idlers and idler sets __________________ 21 (Supplement)
Scrapers __________________________ 21
Loading and transfer chutes ___________ 22
®
CORREX abrasion resistant material ____ 22
3.2 Preparations for pulling the belt onto
the structure _______________________ 23
3.2.1 Hanging the belt roll in let-off stands ____ 23
3.2.2 Pulling in the belt ___________________ 23
4 Splicing conveyor belts ______ 26
4.1 Splicing fabric-ply conveyor belts _______ 26
4.1.1 Mechanical splices (detachable) _______ 26
4.1.2 Vulcanized splices (non detachable) ____ 26
4.2 Splicing steel cable conveyor belts ______ 29
9. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology 1
1.1 Tension members
Structure and 1.2 Covers
identification
of conveyor belts
Aerial cableway is replaced
by a belt conveyor
10. 1 Structure and identification of conveyor belts
Structure and identification
of conveyor belts
Dimensions, test values, designations, etc. of conveyor belts are specified in
the following standards:
DIN 22101 Belt conveyors for bulk materials
DIN 22102 Conveyor belts with textile plies
DIN 22103 Flame resistant conveyor belts
DIN 22104 Antistatic conveyor belts
DIN 22109 Textile-ply conveyor belts for coal mining
DIN 22131 Steel cable conveyor belts
DIN 22129 Steel cable conveyor belts for underground coal mining (draft)
Ordering and delivery of conveyor belts are based on specifications given in
the above standards. Any dimensions or other requirements deviating
from the corresponding standard are subject to special agreement with the
manufacturer.
1.1 Tension members
Conveyor belts are reinforced with one or more plies of special textile fabric
or one layer of adjacent steel cables.
The following code letters denote the type of material used as
reinforcement.
B cotton
Z high-strength viscose staple fibre
R high-strength rayon
P polyamide (trade names such as "Nylon", "Perlon")
E polyester (trade names such as "Trevira", "Diolen")
D aramide (trade names such as "Kevlar”, "Arenka")
St steel cables
1.1.1 Conveyor belts with textile plies
In virtually all cases, square-woven fabric of various kinds of weave is used
for conveyor belts. The terms "warp" (running parallel to the length of
the cloth) and "weft" (running across the width of the cloth) have been taken
over from the weaving process.
During the years of pioneering belt development, only cotton was used as a
textile material. The advancement to fully synthetic fibres brought with it
the manufacture of new high-strength types of fabric, leading to a decisive
change and improvement in the structure and performance of conveyor
belts.
Polyester:
Fully synthetic, high strength with low elongation, high workload capacity,
largely resistant to acids and alkalis, unaffected by moisture (at normal
temperatures).
Polyamide:
Fully synthetic, high tear resistance, high elongation, rotproof, resistant to
moisture and chemicals.
Aramide;
Fully synthetic, highly aromatic polyamide fibre with extra high strength and
low elongation; has the advantages of all fully synthetic fibres, is flame-
resistant without undergoing special treatment and is gaining significance in
the manufacture of high-strength textile-ply belts.
2
11. Structure and identification of conveyor belts 1
Whereas earlier types of conveyor belt used to be reinforced with a
"purebred" fabric, specialists in textile technology have since developed
fabrics with combinations of different materials. Depending on the physical
properties of the warp and weft, these mixed fabrics give the belt the right
properties to meet specific in-service requirements. Textile plies are
identified by two capital letters.The first letter shows the material used in
warp direction and the second letter shows that used in weft direction.
e.g. EP (warp: polyester/weft: polyamide)
Good properties fort he warp are:
High strength, low permanent elongation, hence short take-ups. Strength
and elongation even remain unaffected by wet conditions, rotproof.
Good properties for the weft are:
High elastic elongation, hence good troughability and large filling cross
section, good workload capacity and therefore a good resistance to
mechanical destruction.
In addition, brief reference should also be made at this point to the types of
fabric commonly used for mining service:
e.g. Pb (the second letter is small)
This coding means that two different kinds of material have been twisted
together to form one thread. The capital letter stands for the material giving
the highest measure of strength.
Following the material code is the strength grading in figures according to
DIN 22102 standard specifications. The strength of the textile fabric and that
of the entire belt are stated in N/mm width (previously kg/cm width).
Strength values comply with the R10 standardized series of numbers
contained in DIN 323, i.e. 160, 200, 250, 315, 400, 500, 630, 800,1000,1250,
1600, 2000, 2500, 3150, 4000, 5000, 6300.
Identification coding of a conveyor belt could for instance read as follows:
EP = type of fabric /1000 = overall strength in N/mm belt width /
4 = number of plies
i.e. the belt's tension member with a strength of 1000 N/mm belt width
consists of 4 plies of polyester/polyamide textile fabric, EP 250.
The high strength and ability of fully synthetic blended fabric to withstand
high dynamic stressing enabled the number of plies to be reduced. This led
to the following generation of belts made by Continental:
®
1-ply belts (only for underground) CON-MONTEX
®
2-ply belts CON-BITEX
Multi-ply belts
3
13. Aufbau und Kennzeichnung der Fördergurte 1
1.1.2 Steel cable conveyor belts
All ContiTech Steel Cable Conveyor Belts bear the registered trade name
®
of STAHLCORD .
Reinforcement for steel cable conveyor belts is in the form of one ply of
high-tensile steel cables embedded in rubber and arranged in one plane
®
running parallel to each other longitudinally. STAHLCORD Conveyor Belts
are ideally suited to long-distance conveyors due to the high breaking
strength of the steel cables. The belt construction itself plus the high-tensile
®
steel cables enclosed on all sides by rubber provide STAHLCORD
Conveyor Belts with a high resistance to impact damage at conveyor feed
points, even when handling large lump-size material and where large drop
®
heights are concerned. STAHLCORD Conveyor Belts also have a good
troughability.
Identification and dimensions are specified in DIN 22131 (Standard
DIN 22129 "Steel cable belts for underground coal mining" is available in
draft version). Coding for the tension member is made up as follows:
St = steel cables / 2000 = overall strength in N/mm belt width
Since only one layer of steel cables is embedded in the rubber according to
DIN 22131, the figure after the oblique which appears in the coding
reference for textile-ply belts does not apply in this case.
Strengths of steel cable conveyor belts currently range from 500 N/mm to
7300 N/mm. The strength of the belt is determined by the strength of the
steel cables and their spacing (pitch).
Grades of strength specified in DIN 22 131 are supplemented by special
versions according to the R 20 series.
Technical Data (guide values)
Type Nominal Pitch Thickness of Tension member mass Minimum Minimum
strength tension (belt core) without covers pulley cover
at splice member diameter thickness
(belt core) (M or N) (V) (drive pulley)
in N/mm in mm in mm in kg/m2 in kg/m2 in mm in mm
St 500 500 12.5 2.8 5.3 6.4 500 3
St 630 630 10 2.8 5.8 6.8 500 3
St 800 800 12 3.6 7.4 8.8 630 3
St 1000 1000 12 4.0 8.9 10.4 630 3
St 1250 1250 14 4.7 10.6 12.3 630 3
St 1400 1400 9 4.0 10.3 11.6 630 3
St 1600 1600 15 5.5 12.8 14.7 800 4
St 1800 1800 13.5 5.5 13.5 15.4 800 4
St 2000 2000 12 5.5 14.3 16.2 800 4
St 2250 2250 11 5.5 15.0 16.8 800 4
St 2500 2500 15 7.0 18.0 20.3 1000 5
St 2800 2800 13.5 7.0 19.0 21.3 1000 5
St 3150 3150 15 7.8 22.0 24.5 1250 5.5
1
St 3500 3500 ) 15 8.2 23.6 26.3 1250 5.5
1
St 4000 4000 ) 15 8.8 26.6 29.4 1250 6.5
1
St 4500 4500 ) 16 9.6 29.0 32.1 1400 7
1
St 5000 5000 ) 17 10.7 33.0 36.3 1600 7.5
1
St 5400 5600 ) 17 11.7 36.2 39.9 1600 8
1
St 6300 6300 ) 18 12.2 40.4 44.0 1600 8.5
1
St 7300 7300 ) 19 13.1 43.9 47.7 1800 9
5
1) without allowances according to DIN 22101
14. 1 Structure and identification of conveyor belts
1.2 Covers
If the reinforcement of a conveyor belt is to retain its strength, it must be
given ample protection from mechanical damage and rotting. The tension
member is therefore provided with a cover on the top or conveying side
of the belt and also on the bottom side.
1.2.1 Cover thickness
Cover thicknesses are generally determined by the anticipated amount of
wear caused by the conveyed material and measure between 0.5 and
20.0 mm. A somewhat thinner bottom cover can be selected in most cases
but the ratio of top to bottom cover thickness should not exceed about 3:1
(cf. DIN 22101). Great differences between the two cover thicknesses can
lead to undesired tensions within the belt and bulging of its edges due to
shrinkage of the rubber following vulcanization.
Minimum cover thicknesses are prescribed for steel cable conveyor belts
(DIN 22101). Special attention when selecting the cover thicknesses can
also optimize the lateral rigidity required for some applications.
1.2.2 Cover grade
It is easy to realize the different types of stressing a conveyor belt is
subjected to when we consider the vast range of materials to be conveyed -
literally anything from coal to foodstuffs. Similarly, the number of different
cover grades to choose from is high.
Basic qualities and main properties of a cover are specified in correspond-
ing DIN standards and are distinguished by the letters shown below:
Code letters
Property Steel cable belts Fabric-ply belts
(DIN 22 131) (DIN 22 102)
flame resistant F
antistatic E
flame resistant und antistatic* K S
self-extinguishing and antistatic* (DIN 22 131) V (DIN 22 109)
resistant to elevated temperatures T
resistant to low temperatures R
resistant to oil and grease G
belts for foofstuffs A
belts for chemical products C
belts with fixed mechanical M, N M, N, P, Q
parameters
special grades X
* (Belt cover grades for coal mining service are subject to special conditions of approval
issued by the German mines authorities.)
It is quite possible that several of these properties have to be fulfilled by one
belt, e.g. in the handling of freshly baked bread or confectionary, the
cover may have to be white and resistant to oil and grease as well as higher
temperatures.
When ordering it is therefore extremely important to give a precise definition
of the material to be conveyed and its characteristics.
6
15. Structure and identification of conveyor belts 1
Properties of the most popular ContiTech cover grades (guide values)
DIN Continental Density Suitable for Permissible temperature** Resistant Tension Colour Polymer
Code equivalent p in °C to oil and member
constant peak grease
kg/dm3 min. max. min. max.
M ATRB 1.09 general conveying -50 +60 -55 +70 no any black NR
(maximum type
requirements)
N CONTINENTAL 1.13 general conveying -30 +60 -35 +70 no any black NR/
EXTRA type SBR
®
X CONTI-CLEAN 1.12 heavy soiling -50 +60 -55 +70 no any black BR/NR
(dirt repelled) (with high moisture type
content)
N, K FH 1.24 machine belts in -30 +60 -35 +70 no any black NR/BR
(flame retardant) open cast mines type
S, K FW (flame 1.38 underground and -30 +60 -35 +70 no any black SBR
resistant) surface type
V V 1.42 underground - +100 - +110 within fabric black CR
(self- 1.60 mining (maximum limits steel
extinguishing) safety
requirements)
®
S, T VULKAN 1.39 hot materials -30 +110 -30 +130 within any black CR
spezial with glowing limits type
(flame resistant) embers
®
T VULKAN - 1.13 hot materials -30 +110 -40 +130 no any black SBR
T 130 type
®
T VULKAN 1.13 hot materials -30 +130 -40 +150 no any black SBR
extra-T150 type
®
T, C* VULKAN 1.13 hot materials, -30 +160 -40 +180 no fabric black IIR
super - T 180 also resistant to only
acids and alkalis
G TDAX 1.17 oily, greasy -10 +70 -20 +90 yes fabric black NBR
materials only
G TBBX 1.13 oil sand -50 +60 -50 +70 yes any black NBR
type
A TDLX 1.21 foodstuffs (oily, -10 +120 -15 +140 yes fabric white NBR
greasy and hot) only
X, C* TOWN 1.0 materials with acid -40 +60 -45 +70 no fabric grey NR
content only
E TBBN 1.25 potentially -30 +60 -35 +70 no any black NR
(electrically explosive type
conductive) materials
V PVC (self- 1.35 underground -5 +50 -5 +60 yes fabric brown PVC
extinguishing) only
* For applications involving potential chemical attack, we recommend prior consultation
with our Application Engineers.
** These temperature specifications refer to the conveyor belt; maximum temperature loads are
However also subject to the nature of exposure to these temperatures (see also German Rubber
Manufacturers` Association guidelines No. 339).
Details of other cover grades and specifications given on request.
7
16. 1 Structure and identification of conveyor belts
1.2.3 Cover reinforcement
To protect the tension member and give added resistance to impacts, the
cover can be provided with additional transverse reinforcement made of
textile cord or steel strands. This increases the belt's resistance to penetra-
tion and reduces the danger of longitudinal slitting.
Transverse reinforcement of the covers
Type Transverse Arrangement Tension member
reinforcement
®
CONTI-CROSS textile cord one side STAHLCORD
T (polyamide) (top or bottom) (all types)
®
CONTI-CROSS textile cord both sides STAHLCORD
T/T (polyamide) (all types)
®
CONTI-CROSS Steel strands both sides STAHLCORD
S/S special-purpose
types
Breaker fabric one side fabric-ply belts
(polyamide) (top) or both
sides
1.2.4 Cover patterns
To ensure optimum transport of special materials, e.g. on luggage and
parcel conveyors, industrial assembly and sorting conveyors, or when
conveying at a certain gradient, it may be necessary to provide the belt
cover with a pattern. The most popular patterns to improve holding or
eliminate rollback of materials can be seen below.
Coarse cloth impression Transverse ribbing
Coarse duck impression Transverse multi-cleats
Herringbone pattern Longitudinal multi-cleats
8
17. Structure and identification of conveyor belts 1
The Steep-Angle Conveyor Belt with 15 mm high chevron cleats on the top
cover is designed to carry bulk materials such as coal, sand, gravel, ore
minerals, etc. This belt can be troughed at 45° and is capable of transporting
its load at a gradient of up to about 30° depending on the type of material
handled.
In addition to cover patterns, there are belts with high bonded sections.
Section designs are varied and are vulcanized-on using the cold bonding
process. These belts are named as follows:
Partitioned Belts
Fin-Type Belts
®
CONTIWELL Box-Section Belts
®
CONTIWELL Corrugated-Sidewall Belts
Gradients of up to approx. 60° can be achieved using these belts,
depending on the type of belt and the material being conveyed.
Conveyor belts cannot be used for gradients exceeding 60° This is where
.
it becomes necessary to make use of vertical conveyors or elevator belts.
®
CONTIWELL Box-Section Belts can also be used for vertical conveying
(with a cover belt if required). Heavy-duty bucket elevators are fitted with
Elevator Belts with fabric or steel cable tension members.
Steep-Angle Conveyor Belt with Partitioned Conveyor Belt
chevron cleats
Fin- Type Conveyor Belt, 2-section Fin- Type Conveyor Belt, 3-section
CONTIWELL® Box-Section Belt
9
19. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology 2
2.1 How to order conveyor belts
2.2 Delivery and storage
Ordering and
storing
Site delivery
20. 2 Ordering and storage
Ordering and storage
2.1 How to order conveyor belts
Ordering is done on the basis of standards already named on the previous
pages. In most cases reference can be made to specifications of systems
already in operation when ordering replacement belts.
Based on the DIN standard 22102, an enquiry or purchase order should
include the following information:
a) Extended or unwound length of the belt in m, specifying an "additional
overlap length for splicing", or if the belt is to be delivered in one
continuous length "endless...m". The client is responsible for specifying
the correct length.
b) Type of belt (e.g. steep-angle conveyor belt).
c) Belt width in mm. Standard widths are 300, 400, 500, 650, 800, 1000, 1200
and so on at an increase of 200 mm.
Non-standard widths may be supplied in agreement with the
manufacturer. Continental manufactures belts up to a width of 3200 mm
without a longitudinal joint.
d) Type of reinforcement.
e) Nominal strength of the belt in N/mm.
f) Number of plies.
g) Cover thicknesses (top and bottom) in mm.
h) Cover material (rubber, PVC or the manufacturer's designation).
i) Cover grade, DIN 22102 code, basic properties, resistance requirements
or the trade name if known.
j) Additional information, e.g. type of splice.
2.1.1 Example of how to order
Conveyor belt 40 m inner circumference, 500 mm width, 2 plies polyester/
polyamide, nominal strength 500 N/mm, rubber cover, cover thicknesses -
top cover 3 mm, bottom cover 2 mm, belt to be supplied unspliced,
additional overlap length for splicing required.
This order is summarized as follows:
®
40 m CON-BITEX Conveyor Belt + overlap
500 mm wide
EP 500/2
3+2 mm CONTINENTAL EXTRA (N)
If you are ordering for the first time or planning to erect a new conveyor, you
are strongly advised to complete the manufacturer's data sheet giving full
system specifications or ask for one of ContiTech's engineers to pay you a
visit. This is the only way to ensure that you select the right type of belt with
optimum conveying capacity and economy.
2.1.2 Delivery of endless belts
Special-purpose belts and belts for short-distance conveyors can also be
factory spliced to the client's specifications. Delivery of endless belts is
however restricted by methods of transportation and production. Before
ordering an endless conveyor belt, the question of installing it on the belt
conveyor must always be examined. Installation of an endless belt requires
at least prior dismantling of the drive and tail pulleys, as well as the sets of
top run idlers. In addition, the feed and transfer points have to be thoroughly
inspected.
12
21. Ordering and storage 2
The process of dismantling and refitting parts of the structure usually
involves a great deal more work than on-site belt splicing and installation.
ContiTech's specialist engineers can be of help when deciding whether
to select an endless belt or an unspliced one.
A detailed summary of all ContiTech Conveyor Belt types, with descriptions
and information on available sizes can be taken from the CONTI Conveyor
Belt Service Manual, Part C "Conveyor Belting, Product Range".
2.2 Delivery and storage
For long-distance conveyors it is often necessary to divide the total
conveyor belt length into a certain number of part lengths agreed upon
between the client and the manufacturer. The number of part lengths is
always kept as low as possible in order to keep the number of splices at the
installation location to a minimum. Each splicing operation means a loss of
time and money.
Part lengths are usually selected in accordance with the transportation and
installation facilities at the site. Outer dimensions of the conveyor belt roll
and its gross weight must be calculated beforehand when determining the
mode of shipment.
2.2.1 Packaging
Conveyor belts are wound onto wooden cores for shipment. Light belts are
wound onto wooden cores with 400 mm outside diameter and a square
centre hole of 90x90 mm to hold the roll axle; long and heavy belts are
wound on wooden cores with 600 mm outside diameter and a square centre
hole measuring 200x200 mm to hold the axle.
Extra large belt rolls can also be shipped on wooden or steel drums.
When shipping endless belts the inner and outer loops are lined with rollers
to prevent damage to the tension member through sharp kinking.
The thickness of the conveyor belt can be determined by means of the
tables on pages 4 and 5.
Conveyor belt thickness = thickness of tension member +
thicknesses of the two covers
The roll diameter can be taken from the graphs on pages 14 to 17 using the
factors belt thickness and belt length.
The belt weight is determined with the aid of the following tables:
- textile tension member (page 4)
- steel cable belts (page 6)
- cover materials (page 7).
Net Belt weight [kg] =
2 2 .
(cover weight [kg/m ] + tension member weight [kg/m ])
.
belt width [m] belt length [m]
2
Cover weight [kg/m ] =
3 .
density of cover material [kg/dm ] thicknesses of the two covers [mm]
Formlua:
13
22. 2 Ordering and storage
Conveyor belt roll diameter with 400 mm core diameter
30 28 26 24 22 20 19 18
Roll diameter in mm
3000
2000
Belt thickness in mm
1000
100 200 300 400 500
Belt length in m
14
23. Ordering and storage 2
Conveyor belt roll diameter with 400 mm core diameter
30 28 26 24 22 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13
Roll diameter in mm
1800 12
11
1700
10
1600
9
1500
8
1400
7
1300 6
1200 5
1100
1000
900
800
700
Belt thickness in mm
600
50 100 150 200
Belt length in m
15
24. 2 Ordering and storage
Conveyor belt roll diameter with 600 mm core diameter
30 28 26 24 22
Roll diameter in mm
3000
2000
Belt thickness in mm
1000
100 200 300 400 500
Belt length in mm
16
25. Ordering and storage 2
Conveyor belt roll diameter with 600 mm core diameter
30 28 26 24 22 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13
Roll diameter in mm
12
1800
11
1700 10
9
1600
8
1500
7
1400
6
1300
5
1200
1100
1000
900
Belt thickness in mm
800
700
600
50 100 150 200
Belt length in m
17
26. 2 Ordering and storage
Extra special care must be taken during loading and unloading. On no
account should the belt be tipped from the truck or freight car as damage to
the edges and covers would be inevitable. Lateral slipping of the roll
(telescoping) too would complicate belt installation. If fork-lift trucks are
used for unloading, the sharp-edged forks must be padded (corrugated
cardboard, wood, conveyor belt waste, etc.). A suitable axle and a spreader
must be used for loading and unloading by crane or hoist. If wire cables that
touch the roll edges are being used, boards must be inserted, or better still,
an additional strong wooden board of a length equalling the belt length can
be wedged as a spacer bar between the two cable ends.
If the belt roll has to be rolled, it is essential not to roll it counter to the
winding direction. The roll is otherwise telescoped laterally into a funnel
shape. Wooden boards should be placed underneath for rolling too,
so that the belt is not damaged by stones or building materials.
2.2.2 Storage
If prolonged intermediate storage is necessary, it is advisable to suspend
the rolled belt with one axle in two mobile stands. If this is not feasible, the
roll should be turned at intervals to change the contact surface. Storage
location should be selected so as to avoid heat and direct sunlight. The belt
should also be protected from contact with chemicals, grease or oil.
Premature ageing, cracking, hardening or swelling would affect the service
life of the conveyor belt (cf. DIN standard 7716, May 1982 - Rubber
products: directions for storage, cleaning and maintenance).
In the event of prolonged storage in the open air, the cut edges at the start
and end of the belt have to be protected from moisture. It may be advisable
®
to coat the edges with ContiTech's CONREMA Solution.
18
27. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology 3
3.1 Preparing the structure
3.2 Preparations for pulling
Preparations for the belt onto the structure
installation
Pulling in a STAHLCORD®
Steel Cable Conveyor Belt
28. 3 Preparations for installation
Preparations for installation
Installing and splicing a conveyor belt is a job for experts. To give a proper
description of these operations at this point would involve far too much
detail (cf. Conveyor Belt Edition, "Installing and Splicing Conveyor Belts").
3.1 Preparing the structure
11 10 1 13 8 6 12 2
17 5 15 7 9 16 4 3 14
1 Feed 9 Return run idlers
2 Discharge 10 Feed rollers
3 Head pulley (drive pulley) 11 Flat-to-trought transition
4 Snub or deflector pulley 12 Trough-to-flat transition
5 Tail or bend pulley 13 Feed chute
(take-up pulley) 14 Belt cleaner (transverve scrapter)
6 Top run (tight side) 15 Belt cleaner (plough-type scraper)
7 Return run (slack side) 16 Drive unit
8 Top run idlers 17 Counterweight
A thorough inspection of the entire structure for any defects or damage
should be made before installing a new belt on an existing conveyor system.
It is extremely difficult to check dimensions, take corrective action, replace
damaged parts or do any welding jobs once the belt has been installed.
The structure must be carefully cleaned and feed/discharge points cleared
of any leftover materials. The whole length of the conveyor should be
optimally aligned, i.e. straight-tracked without any twisting.
The drive pulley, tail, snub and take-up pulleys should be set square to the
centre line of the conveyor and be horizontal. If the pulleys are lagged, this
is the best opportunity to inspect the lagging with optimum access to the
pulleys. Various types of rubber lagging can be supplied for various applica-
tions.The elasticity of rubber lagging and its grooves serve to effectively
dissipate any moisture, prevent sticky materials from caking, as well as to
cushion and accommodate stones depending on their size thereby keeping
the belt in good working order. Friction grip of the rubber lagging is
maintained.
ContiTech supplies CORREX® Rubber Sheeting in different grades and
surface patterns to cater for different needs. Lagging can also be applied to
the pulleys after the system has been in operation.*
* Further details of available types and instructions for lagging pulleys can be found in
ContiTech's brochure, CORREX® Rubber Sheeting, Drum Lagging Materials and Abrasion
Resistant Lining Materials.
20
29. Preparations for installation 3
The take-up station with the take-up pulley is positioned for textile fabric
belts at the point of the shortest belt length. After splicing of the belt,
sufficient take-up must be available to offset the belt sag during installation
and its elongation.
Steel cable conveyor belts are low in elongation; the design engineer there-
fore has to consider a shorter take-up than that for systems fitted with
textile fabric belts. Nevertheless, belt sag during installation must also be
taken into account for steel cable belts.
Once the belt has been adequately tensioned, it is recommended that the
take-up pulley or take-up carriage is adjusted so as to leave enough
belt material for a join in the take-up length. The advantage of this is that it
facilitates dismantling of the pulleys during structure repairs, and in the
event of heavy damage to the belt, the belt can be tightened and a join
made. Spindles, guides, rollers and hoists are to be cleaned and kept
operational.
Idlers and idler sets in top and return runs are centered square to the belt
line. Idlers have to be checked that they are rotating properly and that any
material build-up is removed. Idlers with dented or worn covering, as well as
those with bearing defects are to be replaced. Idlers have to be lubricated
from time to time depending on the type. Self-aligning idlers on the top and
return runs must be cleaned, re-aligned and kept rotating freely. Return
idlers are exposed to heavy soiling and material build-up.
ContiTech Support Rings protect the idlers from wear and material
accumulation; they contribute to the true running of the belt and help to
keep the conveyor clean due to the low belt bearing area.
Scrapers and chuting are always those elements which, together with the
conveyed materials, contribute the greatest amount of wear to the conveyor
belt. Careful thought should be given during the initial phase of designing a
conveyor system to ensure that the belt is subjected to the least amount of
punishment. Deep troughing at the feeding point, restriction of the material
flow and suitable configuration of the belt charging point can nowadays
frequently eliminate the need for chuting or at least enable its positioning so
that it has a protective instead of an abrasive effect on the belt.
Scrapers are made from rubber or plastic according to their intended
application. The scraper material must be compatible with the materials
being conveyed in order to achieve optimum cleanliness and protection
against wear. Scrapers made from old conveyor belt waste, wood, steel or
other materials lead to accelerated and premature wear of the belt.
Weighted or even self-adjusting scrapers are to be checked that they can
move freely. Attachments are to be inspected for signs of damage, loose
bolts or bent parts which could damage the belt.
Rubber scrapers can only be set and adjusted once the belt has already
been installed and tensioned because this is the only way to achieve the
correct contact pressure on the belt cover.
ContiTech supplies Scraper Blades made from different materials suited to
individual requirements of the material conveyed and the conveyor.*
* See details of ContiTech's product range.
21
30. 3 Preparations for installation
Loading and transfer chutes, tip chutes as well as hoppers should be
inspected and relined with abrasion resistant material if required. Metal
wearing plates and braces should be firmly seated. Loose plates are
frequently the cause of belt slitting. Excellent results are achieved with
®
ContiTech's CORREX Rubber Abrasion Resistant Sheeting which can be
subsequently applied using the cold bonding process.*
ContiTech offers a versatile range of materials with different technical
properties to suit various in-service requirements.
®
CORREX Abrasion Resistant Material with adhesive layer
(guide values)
Type Thickness Specific Hardness Abrasion
gravity (to DIN)
in mm in kg/dm3 Shore A in mm3
6 8 10 15
®
CORREX L L 1.2 70 300
CYCLOP
®
CORREX extra L L 1.1 60 110
®
CORREX super L L L L 1.1 55 55
®
CORREX red L L L L 1.1 45 200
® 1)
CORREX beige L L L L 1.0 40 90
®
CORREX red with L 1.1 45 200
herringbone pattern
L=stock line rolls of 50m, approx. 1200 mm wide. Also spezial-purpose grades,
e.g. „V“=self-extinguishing, „FW“=flame resistant, oil resistant within limits, etc., available on
request.
1
) Measured at half load.
Standard sizes:
Thickness Width Length
4-15 mm 1200 mm 50 m
≥ 16 mm 1400 mm 5m
All safety devices must be carefully inspected! This not only includes
guards around the belt motor drive and the erected awnings, but also all
electrical monitoring systems, visual and acoustic warning signals,
emergency switches, safety lines, belt mistracking and slip monitoring
devices, incorrect loading/spillage control, slit detection systems, etc.
This work should be carried out prior to actual belt installation.
* See also ContiTech's brochure on CORREX® Rubber Sheeting, Drum Lagging Materials,
Abrasion Resistant Lining Materials.
22
31. Preparations for installation 3
3.2 Preparations for pulling the belt onto the structure
It is particularly important when setting up a new conveyor system that, prior
to installation, a site inspection plus preliminary discussions on the
procedure take place between engineers in charge from both the conveyor
construction company and the belt manufacturers, as well as competent
maintenance and electrical engineers from the client. During these discus-
sions an installation programme should be established, the provision of
auxiliary equipment and assisting engineers/staff planned, and the different
areas of responsibility determined.
The site for hanging the new belt in let-off stands, the optimum method of
pulling the belt onto the structure and the site for intermediate and final
splicing should also be jointly agreed upon.
3.2.1 Hanging the belt roll in let-off stands
The winding method is governed by local conditions. The belt roll is
suspended in mobile let-off stands, the simplest type of which is fitted with
open U-shaped bearings to support the axle ends. Bearings should be
secured by bolts or stirrups. For small conveying systems, mobile cable reel
jacks are also adequate for hanging in the roll.
For conveying systems over substantially different levels of ground, the belt
must be pulled in upwards using an appropriate hoist or downwards onto
the system by means of suitable braking and intercepting devices capable
of effectively moderating the maximum slope fall.
To ensure the belt is pulled straight onto the system, the roll should as far as
possible be positioned at right angles to the centre line of the system and
centered in front of, behind, below or above the structure. If it is only
possible to pull the belt in from the side, it should be done at an acute angle
to the system. This requires a number of deflection idlers and fender rollers
between the unwinding point and entry onto the structure or groups of
laterally extended troughing idlers to form a lead-in guide onto the centre of
the system. All short twists and bends must be avoided when pulling the
belt onto the structure and particular care should be taken to avoid any
tendency to tear the belt edges.
3.2.2 Pulling in the belt
Before belt installation, all parts of the structure that come into direct con-
tact with it must be cleaned of oils and lubricants. The belt may not be
dragged across sharp-edged steel sections or wall edges. Fender rollers
must be fitted at such points. The process itself of pulling in the belt is also
determined by local conditions. Although small belts can be lifted manually
or with pulling cables or a hoist, long belts require motor-driven cable
winches or cables with corresponding traction vehicles such as trucks,
Unimogs, bulldozers, etc.
Prior to lifting the belt onto the system, a control must be made to ensure
that the top cover of the belt will come to rest upwards in the top run and
downwards in the return run. If the top cover of the belt is not marked with a
stamp, it can be recognized by the cut edge at the beginning of the belt as
the thicker of the two covers.
23
32. 3 Preparations for installation
The top cover of a rolled belt usually faces outwards. If the suspended roll is
unwound from above, the outer cover is also on top when the belt enters the
conveyor system.
If the roll is turned so that unwinding is done from below, the outer cover
faces downwards.
If the worn belt of a conveyor system is to be replaced by a new one, the
easiest method is often to attach the new belt to the old cut belt so that
when winding up the old belt the new one is automatically drawn onto the
system.
The method chosen is best left to the discretion of the supervising engineer.
There are a number of different possibilities depending on site conditions,
but it would involve too much detail to explain them all in this brochure.
24
34. 4 Splicing conveyor belts
Splicing conveyor belts
Depending on the length of a conveyor system, the belt is made endless
either by splicing its two ends after it has been drawn onto the structure, or
by suitably splicing the individual part-lengths to form one continuous
length.
4.1 Splicing fabric-ply conveyor belts
There are two methods of splicing fabric-ply belts.
4.1.1 Mechanical splices (detachable)
Detachable splices using mechanical fasteners are recommended
for conveyor belts which have to be frequently replaced, shortened or
lengthened, as in underground mining service.
The mechanical splice is quick to carry out and allows the conveyor to
resume operation after just a short time. Another advantage is the low loss
of belt material - splicing is done with straight, rectangular belt ends and
the fasteners do not extend far into the belt, which means little waste when
making a new splice or replacing a defective one.
Utilization of the belt strength varies to a great degree when using
mechanical fasteners. It depends largely on the type of belt, the type of
fabric in particular as well as on the type of fastener, and ranges between
50% and 90%. If a thin, flexible belt is to be joined with mechanical
fasteners, care should be taken that the pulley diameters are suited to the
Hook fasteners fastener holding ability.
4.1.2 Vulcanized splices (non-detachable)
The commonest and most successful type of splice for fixed conveyors and
heavy-duty belts is still the hot vulcanized or cold vulcanized splice. If made
properly by an expert, this splicing technique guarantees maximum utiliza-
tion of the belt strength, longest service life and the best tracking properties
of the belt. These splices also display optimum properties when chuting is
used at loading points or when scrapers are fitted to eliminate material
build-up or clean the belt.
Fabric-ply conveyor belts are normally spliced with staggered steps and
butting of the corresponding fabric plies of the two belt ends.
26
35. Splicing conveyor belts 4
The splice is the weakest point in the entire belt. Due to this method of
stepping the plies, one fabric ply has to be omitted reducing the tensile
strength of the joint by a percentage which is related to the overall number
of plies in the belt. The lower the number of plies, the greater the loss of
strength as a percentage of the overall belt strength.
The high tensile strength of today's fully synthetic fabrics enables conveyor
belts to be manufactured in all strengths up to 1250 N/mm belt width with
®
just two fabric plies. The special feature of the CON-BITEX Belt is its thicker
rubber interlayer which permits various types of splices to be made.
Two-step splice
Whereas the one-step splice only transmits approx. 50% of the belt
strength, up to 100% of the belt strength can be attained using additional
fabric or the interlaced splice.
The strain on the splice when bending over idlers and pulleys is reduced by
taking a bias length of
.
LA = 0.3 B
The additional belt length for the splice overlap is therefore
.
One-step splice LVZ = z LS + LA
for fabric-ply belts with z number of steps.
Step length LS is determined by the strength of the individual fabric plies.
Splice with additional fabric
®
(CON-BITEX )
Interlaced splice
®
(CON-BITEX )
27
36. 4 Splicing conveyor belts
Splice dimensions for fabric-ply belts
Belt type Step length Number of steps Additional belt length for overlap
LS in mm z LVZ in mm
® .
CON-MONTEX 160/1 200 1 200 + 0.3 B
200/1 250 250
250/1 250 250
315/1 300 300
400/1 300 300
500/1 350 350
®
CON-BITEX one-step or with two-step or
additional fabric interlaced
.
200/2 180 180 + 0.3 B 360 + 0.3
250/2 180 180 360
315/2 180 280 360
400/2 200 200 400
500/2 200 200 400
630/2 250 250 500
800/2 250 250 500
.
B 200/3 100 2 200 + 0.3 B
EP 200/3 100 200
250/3 150 300
315/3 150 300
400/3 200 400
500/3 200 400
630/3 250 500
800/3 250 500
1000/3 300 600
1250/3 300 600
.
B 250/4 100 3 300 + 0.3 B
EP 400/4 150 450
500/4 200 600
630/4 200 600
800/4 250 750
1000/4 250 750
1250/4 300 900
1600/4 300 900
.
B 315/5 100 4 400 + 0.3 B
EP 500/5 150 600
630/5 200 800
800/5 200 800
1000/5 250 800
1250/5 250 1000
1660/5 300 1000
28
37. Splicing conveyor belts 4
4.2 Splicing steel cable conveyor belts
In a steel cable conveyor belt splice the individual corresponding cables of
the two belt ends are placed side by side alternately and embedded in a
special rubber compound. The type of splice used is predetermined for
each belt strength rating by the diameter and spacing of the cables.
Splicing configurations to DIN 22131 (provisional standard)
one-step splice
two-step splice
three-step splice
Steel cable belts too are normally spliced at a bias of
.
LA = 0.3 belt width B
Right-angle joints are possible if suitable equipment is available.
29
38. 4 Splicing conveyor belts
Recommended splice dimensions for steel cable belts to DIN 22131
and special types (guide values)
Belt type Step length Number of steps Additional belt length for
overlap
LS in mm z LVZ in mm + LA
St 500 250 1 550
St 630 250 1 550
St 800 300 1 600
St 1000 300 1 600
St 1250 350 1 650
St 1400 350 2 1000
St 1600 450 1 750
St 1800 400 2 1150
St 2000 400 2 1150
St 2250 400 2 1150
S1 2500 500 2 1350
St 2800 600 2 1550
St 3150 650 2 1650
St 3500 650 3 2350
St 4000 750 3 2650
St 4500 800 3 2800
St 5000 Splicing system is chosen in accordance with design conditions
St 5400
St 6300
St 7300
Other splicing systems are possible
A great amount of research and testing is invested by ContiTech in the
improvement of splicing methods to achieve optimum splice life and yet
keeping the cost of labour and equipment to a minimum. The importance of
precision and skill during splicing cannot be overemphasized. Further
details are given in the edition "Installing and Splicing Steel Cable Conveyor
Belts".
30
39. ContiTech Specialist in Rubber Technology 5
5.1 Tensioning the belt
5.2 Starting the belt
5.3 Training the belt
Commissioning
Long-distance conveyor
in operation
40. 5 Commissioning
Commissioning
After splicing the conveyor belt, the press, worktop and all auxiliary splicinig
facilities are dismantled and removed. Idler sets are returned to
their positions in the top and return runs, properly aligned and secured.
5.1 Tensioning the belt
It is assumed that the structure will have been erected correctly before belt
tensioning takes place. If using the screw take-up method, the take-up gear
on either side of the take-up pulley is to be adjusted so that the pulley with-
draws square to the centre line of the system, thus tensioning the belt. With
a gravity take-up, the supported counterweight is returned to its hanging
position, or alternatively the winch tightened accordingly in the case of
winch tensioning.
The belt must be tensioned so as to ensure that
a) the required tension is available at the drive to effectively transmit the
peripheral force of the drive to the belt. Insufficient tension leads to belt
slip on the pulley, premature wear of both belt and lagging, causing
interference during operation.
b) there is no belt sag between the individual idler sets and that troughing
does not flatten to allow material spillage.
c) the belt shows a good flat-to-trough transition even when running with no
load, thereby gaining enough friction contact with the lateral idlers to
keep it running true. For small conveyor systems, the expert installation
engineer will be able to adjust the correct tension on the basis of
experience. For large conveyor systems, the required tension is pre-
determined during the design phase, or calculated from the required
tension of the pulley and permissible sag of the belt between idlers.
5.2 Starting the belt
All is now prepared for the initial run, however it is recommended that the
entire system is inspected again before starting the commissioning
operation. Any tools left lying around or parts of the structure, screws, etc.
placed on the return run are to be removed. If necessary, the return run
should be swept clean again. Check that work has been satisfactorily
completed on all parts of the system.
A locking device over the electric switch has proved to be an effective
precautionary measure in this connection. It is secured by each group of
workers with a marked padlock and the conveyor is not released for
commissioning until all padlocks have been removed.
32
41. Commissioning 5
If the system has a large centre distance, it is advised that a team of capable
observers be posted at intervals along the conveyor in such a manner as to
enable visual and audible signalling. First of all the belt is switched on
briefly to move it forward about 10 to 15 m depending on the system length.
This makes sure that the belt initially rests properly on the idlers. Then a
second short burst of power is given, after which the supervising engineer
awaits the reaction of his observers. If no problems are reported, the belt
can be run under steady power. Constant monitoring is important to see if
there is a tendency to run out of line, so that corrective action can be taken.
Fabric-ply belts in particular require a certain amount of time before
running with load to allow them to adapt to the system configuration and
troughing. If a belt shows a tendency to run off-centre at the beginning,
there is no reason to interrupt the trial run and expect to find the cause in
the work of the vulcanizers or even a faulty belt. Every start-up operation
needs corrective action. Belt and system must adapt to one other. This is
best done with the belt running, if possible under full load conditions.
5.3 Training the belt
Training a belt, especially on a long conveyor system, requires a great deal
of patience, clear logical thinking and action. If at the beginning the belt
comes into contact with some points of the fixed structure, the conveyor
does not have to be stopped immediately - belt edges do not suffer the
damage that easily. Alignment is only possible when the belt is running,
because it is only during operation that the effect of any adjustment can be
observed. If the belt runs off-centre, correction begins before the point of
misalignment seen in the direction of belt travel.
How can misalignment be corrected?
The drive pulley has been thoroughly checked during preparations for
commissioning: it is horizontal and set square to the belt axle. It has been
cleaned of all caked material. Therefore, this pulley should as far as
possible be left untouched. If the belt does not centralize, the final troughing
idlers before the drive pulley are to be adjusted.
The tail pulley, often designed as a take-up pulley on small conveyors is
usually screw-adjusted. Though it would be preferable to leave the pulley in
the position it was during control of the belt tension, belt tracking can be
corrected at this point if absolutely necessary.
The general rule is:
Conveyor belts enter downwards
33
42. 5 Commissioning
Conveyor belts enter downwards
A belt always follows the path of reduced tension, i.e. it runs towards the
pulley edge which has retracted as a result of slackening the screw take-up.
Direction of belt travel
Axle position
The troughing idler transoms on the top run are attached to the structure
by means of slots or clamps in such a manner that lateral adjustment is
possible. By tilting the idler sets forwards or backwards, a position is
attained where the friction between idler and belt acts as a steering force on
the belt.
The following rule generally applies in practice:
To bring the belt closer - hammer the group of troughing idlers away from
the direction of belt travel. To push the belt further away - hammer the group
of troughing idlers towards the direction of belt travel.
Direction of belt travel
To push the belt To bring the belt
further away closer
34