At the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Describe guidelines for properly storing replacement belts
- Describe how to properly handle conveyor belt rolls
- Identify and describe different conveyor lacing types
- Describe a common method for introducing a new belt
- Describe belt tensioning and tracking best practices
- Identify safety guidelines when replacing conveyor belts
- List in order the steps for replacing a conveyor belt
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What are typical steps for conveyor belt replacement?
The typical steps of conveyor belt replacement are storage of the replacement belt; transporting the new belt to the installation location; unlacing the old belt; installing the new belt; adjusting belt tension; lacing the new belt; and tracking the new belt.
How should conveyor belts be stored when not in use?
When storing conveyor belts, keep them in factory packaging or under some other cover; store belts in a cool, dry location not exposed to sunlight; store belts with the aligned horizontally, not vertically; suspect stored belts so they're not stored on the ground.
What are best practices for transporting belts?
When transporting belts, don't roll them; when you do place them on the ground, do so gently; hoist bars using a lifting bar and spreader bar.
What are some common types of conveyor lacing?
Common conveyor lacings include clipper, unibar, alligator, plastic rivet, and bolt or rivet hinged.
Where is the tension on conveyor belts adjusted?
Belt tension is typically adjusted at the take-up pulley or the location where the last lacing will be made.
What are best practices for tensioning belts?
Make adjustments in small increments and equally on both sides of the take-up pulley, and ensure that the ends of the belts are lined up properly.
Below is a transcript of the video sample provided for this module:
After a roll of belt has been moved from storage to the installation location, it should be placed onto a shaft so that it can be easily unrolled. Belts are typically packaged with a side that carries materials on the outside. Be sure to place the carrying side of the belt upward if pulling on the top run, or downward if pulling onto the return run. Before introducing the new belt, the v-belt or chain drive will need to be removed. A common method of introducing a new belt is to lace the new belt to the old belt, and then pull the old belt out, which then guides the new belt into place correctly over the pulley arrangement.
Be sure to monitor the new belt as it is fed to ensure that it does not jam. Once the old belt is pulled completely out, it can be unlaced from the new belt. If it is not possible to feed the belt using the old belt, be sure to know the proper pulley arrangement.
Use the additional resources and links below to learn more about this topic: