Analysis of conveyor belt flexure resistance

Abstract The University of Newcastle has designed and built a large test facility to measure the combined indentation rolling resistance and belt flexure resistance. This test facility allows tests to be conducted on a full-sized conveyor belt over a range of tensions and belt velocities and is designed in accordance with an Australian standard [14]. The test facility applies tension to the conveyor belt using two hydraulic rams and applies a vertical load by deflecting the conveyor belt over two adjustable height rolls via hold down rolls set apart at equal distances to the measurement idler roll. Experimental results from the University of Newcastle test facility include measurements of both indentation rolling resistance and belt flexure resistance in combination. A way is needed to separate the indentation rolling resistance and belt flexure resistance into their individual components. One approach is to predict the belt flexure resistance component and validate the prediction by measuring the indentation rolling resistance using the DIN22123 [15] experimental method. In this experimental method the belt is tensioned by two hydraulic rams and the vertical load is applied with an idler roll placed above the measurement idler roll. The setup has the advantage of applying the vertical load without flexing the conveyor belt. The results from the DIN standard will provide indentation rolling resistance individually, and this can be compared to the Australian Standard [14] of measuring the combined indentation rolling resistance and belt flexure resistance. Two methods of measuring indentation rolling resistance and belt flexure resistance components will be discussed in this paper, analytical models will be presented and, in combination with laboratory test data, trends identified to reduce the motion resistance.