Introduction
Conveyor belt tracking is the process of aligning and adjusting a conveyor belt so that it is running straight and true. It is an important part of maintaining the efficiency and safety of a conveyor system. A properly tracked belt will reduce wear, noise, and material damage, as well as prevent slippage and misalignment. In order to properly track a conveyor belt, there are several steps that need to be taken.
Steps to Track a Conveyor Belt
Step 1: Inspect the Belt
Before attempting to track a conveyor belt, it is important to inspect it for any damage or wear. Check the belt for any tears, rips, or abrasion and make sure there are no foreign objects that could cause a jam. Also, inspect the conveyor’s frame for any signs of damage or wear.
Step 2: Adjust the Drive Pulley
The drive pulley is the most important part of a conveyor belt tracking system, as it is the source of power and provides the necessary tension to keep the belt running. Adjusting the drive pulley is the first step in tracking a conveyor belt. To do this, loosen the adjustment bolts and move the drive pulley until it is centered on the belt.
Step 3: Adjust the Tracking Idlers
The tracking idlers are the rollers that support the belt and keep it running straight. To adjust the tracking idlers, loosen the adjustment bolts and move them until the belt is running straight. If the belt is too loose, move the idlers closer together. If the belt is too tight, move the idlers further apart.
Step 4: Check the Tracking
Once the drive pulley and tracking idlers have been adjusted, it is important to check the belt’s tracking. To do this, start the conveyor and observe the belt as it moves. If the belt is running true, you are done. If not, adjust the drive pulley and tracking idlers as necessary until the belt is running straight.
Conclusion
Tracking a conveyor belt is an important part of maintaining the efficiency and safety of a conveyor system. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your conveyor belt is running straight and true. This will reduce wear, noise, and material damage, as well as prevent slippage and misalignment.
