Strategies to Minimize Wear and Tear on Belt Covers
Abrasion damage on conveyor belts is a significant concern in many industries. There are two main types of abrasion damage: impingement and impact.
Impingement damage is caused by materials rubbing against the belt cover, resulting in even wear influenced by the material's pressure on the belt surface.
Impact damage, on the other hand, occurs when sharp-edged materials cut or gouge the belt, leading to more severe and uneven wear.
Manufacturers use several testing methods to measure abrasion resistance. The ISO 4649 Types A and B Abrasion Test Methodology evaluates wear by holding a rubber cover sample against a rotating abrasive drum. Another method, the Pico Abrasion Test (ASTM Test Method D2228), uses tungsten carbide knives to abrade a small belt cover sample. Both tests involve weighing the sample before and after to calculate the weight loss, providing an index of abrasion resistance.
While these tests are useful, they do not precisely predict real-world performance. Regular monitoring and selecting the right materials based on the specific application can help manage abrasion damage and prolong the life of conveyor belts.