What are the common challenges and solutions for conveyor belt cleaning in wet or sticky conditions?

1 Challenge 1: Belt adhesion

One of the main problems with wet or sticky materials is that they tend to adhere to the belt surface, forming a layer of residue that is hard to remove. This can affect the belt traction, alignment, and tension, as well as the quality and accuracy of the material discharge. To prevent belt adhesion, you need to choose the right type of belt material and coating for your application, such as rubber, PVC, or polyurethane. You also need to use proper belt scrapers and cleaners that can effectively scrape off the excess material from the belt without damaging it.

2 Challenge 2: Belt carryback

Another common challenge is belt carryback, which is the material that sticks to the belt after it passes the discharge point and returns to the tail pulley. Belt carryback can cause several problems, such as material loss, belt wear, pulley damage, belt mistracking, and material accumulation under the conveyor. To reduce belt carryback, you need to use adequate belt cleaners at the head and tail pulleys, as well as belt plows or diverters along the return run. You also need to adjust the belt speed, angle, and tension to optimize the material release.

4 Challenge 4: Belt corrosion

Some wet or sticky materials can also contain corrosive substances, such as acids, salts, or metals, that can damage the belt surface and structure. Corrosion can weaken the belt strength, durability, and resistance, as well as cause discoloration, pitting, or cracking. To prevent belt corrosion, you need to select the right type of belt material and coating that can withstand the chemical exposure, such as stainless steel, nylon, or fiberglass. You also need to use proper belt washers or sprays that can rinse off the corrosive residues from the belt.

5 Challenge 5: Belt hygiene

Another challenge is belt hygiene, which is especially important for food, pharmaceutical, or medical applications. Wet or sticky materials can harbor bacteria, fungi, or mold that can contaminate the belt and the product. This can pose health risks for the workers and the consumers, as well as legal and regulatory issues for the business. To ensure belt hygiene, you need to use sanitary belt materials and coatings that can prevent microbial growth, such as antimicrobial or non-stick surfaces. You also need to use adequate belt sanitizers or disinfectants that can kill the germs and remove the dirt from the belt.

6 Challenge 6: Belt cost

The final challenge is belt cost, which is affected by all the previous challenges. Wet or sticky conditions can increase the belt wear and tear, maintenance, and replacement costs, as well as the operational and environmental costs. To reduce the belt cost, you need to invest in quality belt materials and coatings that can last longer and perform better in your application. You also need to use efficient and effective belt cleaning equipment that can save you time, energy, and money in the long run.

7 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?