How can you increase conveyor belt lifespan?

1 Choose the right belt type

Not all conveyor belts are created equal. Depending on your application, you may need a different belt material, thickness, width, speed, tension, and design. For example, if you are handling abrasive or corrosive materials, you may need a belt that can resist wear and tear, or if you are transporting heavy or bulky items, you may need a belt that can support the load and prevent slippage. Consult with your conveyor manufacturer or supplier to find the best belt type for your needs.

2 Perform regular inspections

One of the best ways to increase conveyor belt lifespan is to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. By performing regular inspections, you can detect and fix any signs of damage, wear, misalignment, or contamination on your belt and its components. You can use a checklist to inspect your belt visually, audibly, and manually, and look for any cracks, cuts, frays, tears, holes, or abrasions. You can also check the belt tension, tracking, splicing, pulleys, rollers, bearings, and motors for any faults or malfunctions. If you find any problems, repair or replace them as soon as possible.

3 Clean and lubricate your belt

Another way to increase conveyor belt lifespan is to keep it clean and lubricated. Dirt, dust, grease, oil, water, and other contaminants can accumulate on your belt and cause friction, corrosion, or abrasion. This can reduce the belt's performance and durability, as well as create a fire or health hazard. To clean your belt, you can use a brush, a scraper, a vacuum, or a washdown system, depending on the type and level of contamination. To lubricate your belt, you can use a spray, a drip, or a brush system, depending on the type and location of the lubricant. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and safety precautions when cleaning and lubricating your belt.

5 Upgrade your belt

A final way to increase conveyor belt lifespan is to upgrade your belt with newer or better technology. If your belt is outdated or inefficient, you may benefit from investing in a new or improved belt that can offer more features, functions, or benefits. For example, you may want to upgrade to a belt that has a longer service life, a higher load capacity, a lower energy consumption, a better resistance to wear and tear, or a smarter monitoring system. By upgrading your belt, you can enhance your production efficiency, quality, and profitability, as well as reduce your environmental impact.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?