Navigating the Critical Role and Risks of Belt Cleaners in Conveyor Systems
Belt cleaners play a critical role in maintaining conveyor belts and, by extension, the entire conveyor system. However, they also pose a substantial risk of damaging the belts themselves. Like other components of the conveyor structure, the mere presence of a belt cleaner inevitably results in some wear over time. Generally, belt cleaners contribute to gradual wear on the belt's top cover.
The primary concern arises from improperly installed belt cleaners, which can exert excessive pressure on the belt or cause significant chatter in the cleaner blade. Chatter, in particular, can be highly detrimental, potentially leading to gashes or gouges in the belt.
In both scenarios, damage from improperly installed belt cleaners can escalate due to irregularities on the top cover surface, increasing vibrations in the blade. Fortunately, issues with belt cleaners are usually straightforward to address, often requiring adjustments to the blade's alignment rather than a full replacement.