Abstract
Results of tests into the energy-efficiency of belt conveyor transportation systems indicate that the energy consumption of their drive mechanisms can be limited by lowering the main resistances in the conveyor. The main component of these resistances is represented by belt indentation rolling resistance. Limiting its value will allow a reduction in the amount of energy consumed by the drive mechanisms. This article presents a test rig which enables uncomplicated evaluations of such rolling resistances. It also presents the results of comparative tests performed for five steel-cord conveyor belts. The tests involved a standard belt, a refurbished belt and three energy-saving belts. As temperature significantly influences the values of belt indentation rolling resistance, the tests were performed in both positive and negative temperatures. The results indicate that when compared with the standard belt, the refurbished and the energy-efficient belts generate higher and lower indentation rolling resistances, respectively. In order to demonstrate practical advantages resulting from the use of energy-saving belts, this article also includes calculations of the power demand of a conveyor drive mechanism during one calendar year, as measured on a belt conveyor operated in a mine. The replacement of a standard belt with a refurbished belt generates a power demand higher by 4.8%, and with an energy-efficient belt—lower by 15.3%.
Highlights
Research into energy-saving conveyor belts has been conducted by scientists, belt manufacturers, and by users of belt conveyors [1,2,3]
The “inclined plane” test rig developed for the purpose of identifying belt indentation rolling resistances allowed quick and easy measurements
Tests performed with the use of this “inclined plane” may help research optimal parameters for rubber compounds and optimal design solutions for conveyor belt bottom covers
Summary
Research into energy-saving conveyor belts has been conducted by scientists, belt manufacturers, and by users of belt conveyors [1,2,3]. This research has been performed in cooperation with conveyor belt manufacturers and with the largest operators of such belts, i.e., with surface lignite mines, underground copper ore mines, as well as with hard coal mines. The focus has been placed mainly on steel-cord belts, as belts of this type are typically used on conveyors having greatest lengths and capacities, and such conveyors are operated in lignite mines. As a matter of fact, manufacturers of single-ply textile belts with aramid core and of multi-ply textile belts with polyamide-polyester core have recently started to express interest in the energy-efficiency of such belts as well, and this fact represents a promising further research option [7]
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