Norpak Handling’s expert advice on conveyor belt tension and tightening

Conveyor belts are available from Norpak.

One of the country’s premier suppliers of material-handling products, Norpak Handling is a valuable source of belt conveyors. These are systems with belts that perform many functions. As a result, the belts often experience wear and tear over repeated use. So users are wise to conduct regular conveyor belt tightening and other maintenance to keep belts working at their peak. The Norpak team offers the following expert advice on using proper belt tension to prevent damage to, and expand operational life of, conveyor belts.

Routine checks and maintenance

First, belt conveyors can function optimally with a certain amount of tension. The relevant factors include the weight of the products and the required speed. If it is possible, the user should adjust the belt to the lowest tension at which it can run smoothly with no slippage. Too much tension can wear out bearings, shafts, and pulleys, while insufficient tension can lead to slipping and improper tracking.

Users should stay on the lookout for signs of improper belt tension. Action should be taken if belt lacing is pulling apart, the belt edges are curling upwards, the belt has become discoloured, or slipping is causing noise. Norpak advises taking the following steps:

1. Remove all objects from the conveyor.
2. Adjust belt tension to minimize slippage.
3. Add items from small to large, adjusting the tension until the conveyor can transport the heaviest item smoothly.
4. Run the conveyor with a full load and check for slipping.
5. Repeat the whole process if slipping occurs.

Customers can boost the longevity of their conveyors with routine checks and maintenance. For example, the user should inspect the belt’s integrity and performance with no loads, clean all debris or spills off the belt, and make sure not to surpass the weight limit. If the belt gets damaged, the other conveyor parts and the products will too. But time spent on belt maintenance will decrease the amount of money and time wasted on repairs and replacements of damaged conveyors substantially.

Norpak offers a large selection of belt conveyors that work for material-handling processes in different sectors; these systems are adaptable, efficient, and easy to install. The Norpak team has the experience to find the best conveyor solution for any need. As an authorized Hytrol Integration Partner, the company recommends many Hytrol systems for top performance.

To learn more, contact Norpak.

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