Conveyor belts are essential to so many industries, and so it is only natural that the last thing any company that utilises one really doesn’t want it to break down. Unfortunately, incorrect business practices and other factors often contribute to machine trouble, making it necessary to conduct immediate repairs.
Because, of course, a broken system means production downtime which can cost your business thousands of dollars, so it’s important that you enlist the experts as soon as possible so that you can get the machine back in full working order.
Conveyor belt repair has to be conducted by the professionals as any mistakes can cause greater problems in the future (not to mention be dangerous for the person attempting to fix the machine!).
With this in mind, here are a few considerations to think about before enlisting your experts to come and fix the problem:
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1. What is the cause of the damage?
These vital machines can break down for a variety of reasons, but whatever they may be it is important to analyse them efficiently before contacting the pros, as it can be the difference between having a minor problem fixed during scheduled shutdown or having to fix the damage over a longer time period.
For example, a large tear along the width can cause future damage and may require more time to fix than a minor rip, so it is always important to consider what is the cause of the damage and whether or not you need the team to work during scheduled shutdown or over a period of production downtime.
2. Will a temporary fix get the job done?
Once you have analysed the damage, it is important to consider whether the temporary fix will last or whether it might be wiser to replace the damaged part. It is imperative to see if the belt can handle the drive or take-up forces, once its tensile strength has been fixed.
Temporary fixes only usually cover small damages like mending or replacing fasteners, as well as holding a scab overlay using fasteners or elevator bolts, so it all depends on how bad the system has been damaged. Naturally, if the system has withstood major damage then it will be imperative to conduct a proper service.
3. What type of repair is required?
There are multiple methods for this vital solution, including metal fasteners, vulcanised, cold cure and Dutchman, with the right choice being made once you contact the professionals.
4. Do we need to shutdown operations?
Hopefully, the damage won’t be so severe as to require production shutdown, but this should be decided upon when you analyse the damage. Conveyor belt repair can be a time consuming process, and can affect your business’s productivity and costs in the thousands, so it is important to consider whether you need a small repair, a larger one or an entire part replacement.
The load on the current system may need to be shifted to the adjacent belt. This can be an incredibly time consuming process as well, leading to further production slow downs and other issues that make it difficult to operate to the fullest capacity, so it is important to consider the nature of the damage and how long it may take to fix.
These are some of the key considerations to make when fixing this most vital piece of equipment. You don’t want to be without your system for long, so it is best to quickly make these considerations, hire the pros and get that system back on track!