Models of Transverse Vibration in Conveyor Belt—Investigation and Analysis

Abstract

The transverse vibration frequency of conveyor belts is an important parameter describing the dynamic characteristics of a belt conveyor. This parameter is most often identified from theoretical relationships, which are derived on the basis of an assumption that the belt is a stationary elastic string. Belt vibrations have a number of analogies to other tension member systems, such as, for example, power transmission belts. Some research findings suggest that in the case of a limited length of the belt section, a more accurate description of its vibration can be obtained with a beam model rather than with a string model. Experimental research has so far mostly revolved around measurements of stationary belts. This article presents the results of vibration measurements performed for a moving belt and obtained for various operating parameters of the conveyor, as well as for several configurations of the distance between idler supports. The analysis was conducted on a moving steel-cord belt. Belts of this type are commonly used in the majority of mines and industrial plants. The measurement results were compared with the model of a string and with the model of a beam in tension. Both of the theoretical models allowed for the belt speed, whose influence was demonstrated in both theoretical calculations and experimental tests to be negligible. On the other hand, the tensile force in the belt was observed to have a significant impact on the vibration frequency. Depending on the idler spacing, the measurement results are approximate to those of the beam model or of the string model. For spacing smaller than 1.6 m, the belt shows properties approximate to an elastic beam, while for spacing greater than 1.6 m, the belt behaviour can be better represented through a string model. A beam model is, therefore, more applicable in analyses of vibrations in the upper strand of the belt, while a string model is more useful in analyses of vibrations in the lower strand.