Norpak Handling’s tips on how to expand belt conveyors’ lifespans

Plants and warehouses depend on belt conveyors.

Belt conveyors are one of many product groups available from Norpak Handling Ltd., a premier Canadian provider of material-handling solutions. These conveyors help to transport packages with efficiency and accuracy, making them great logistical tools for customers. Manufacturing facilities and warehouses depend highly on these systems, so regular maintenance is crucial. To optimize productivity, avoid costly repairs, and expand the lifespans of belt conveyors, the Norpak team offers the following advice.

Avoid overloading and misalignment

Norpak’s first tip is to check pulley alignment and belt slippage. Belts must be aligned with pulleys; otherwise, they cause uneven tension on one belt side, and this increases wear rate. When torque exceeds friction between belt and pulley, the belt slides back because of slippage. Proper alignment and avoiding overloading on belt conveyors are crucial. New belts should also be tracked appropriately, and users should run replacement belts slowly and make proper adjustments, as they will likely not track as well as the previous belts did.

Cleaning and maintaining idlers is also important. They can become soiled and worn out over time; they can also get misaligned or cease operating, and malfunctioning idlers lead to premature belt wear. This can be prevented via constant maintenance and repairs. Norpak also recommends regular bearing inspection: bearings should be checked for excessive noise or residue formation, which can identify worn-out bearings. Rollers should be replaced when the bearings are no longer useful.

Users should thoroughly clean the belt and motor to stop buildup of dust and debris. The undersides should be inspected and cleaned regularly for any contaminant accumulation that could cause slippage. This is why Norpak recommends a system with lifers or belt scrapers. A motor that is full of dust will eventually choke the fan vents and lead to overheating.

Last, Norpak recommends storing spare parts, so that belts and other components can be replaced whenever necessary. But beware of improper storage. Small belts have to be sealed in plastic and protected from sunlight and moisture, and large belts must be placed on skids to stop wicking and moisture absorption.

To learn more, contact Norpak.

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