CEMA Standard Helps Keep Conveyors Running Trouble Free

In Richwood’s opinion, using the CEMA standard and faithfully applying the ranking system is just one more way to work together to make the toughest job in the world a little more predictable and a lot more productive.

The consistent use of a universal belt cleaning standard across the industry would serve to alleviate uncertainty for one of the most critical jobs at the mine – keeping the conveyor running clean and trouble free. 

Clean and dry conveyor belts mean that equipment is spared the punishment of carryback, material isn’t wasted, and work areas are safer and clear of debris. 

Because of the essential nature of keeping belts free from carryback, Richwood has joined with the Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) in creating and utilizing a standard for belt cleaners that can make their specification simple and scientific, making belt cleaning a certainty rather than a probability. 

In essence, the standard recommends assessing the most significant factors in the application, such as:

1. Belt width;  
2. Belt speed;
3. Number and type of splices;
4. Abrasiveness of the material; and
5. The flow characteristics and moisture content of the material. 

A numerical classification system is assigned based on increasing values of severity. This method provides a practical way to evaluate an application and specify the correct equipment. 

An industry example

A recent application at an aggregate facility can serve as an example. This location was experiencing extreme amounts of carryback. The structure and walkways were constantly being hosed and shoveled, while components, like idler rolls, were failing faster than they could keep up. 

The problem was overwhelming and in need of a reliable solution. Using the factors cited in the CEMA Standard 576, belt specifics were collected. The report showed a 54” vulcanized belt running at 450 FPM, 1400 TPH conveying granite.

The application parameters serve as a guide to classify the severity of the belt cleaning conditions. The severity ranking, based on the CEMA guidelines for this site, was Class 2.

An engineered recommendation was made by Richwood, which included a primary and secondary blade with an air tensioned cleaning system. This recommendation of two cleaning blade positions is in line for a Class 2 ranking, utilizing Richwood Belt Cleaners. Once installed, this configuration provided a complete solution to their carryback issues. With material kept in its place, there is less waste and work areas are much safer.

The right cleaner for the job

In other applications, with greater belt widths and speeds, and other determining factors, severity rankings can be as high as Class 5. Richwood Belt Cleaners are engineered for each application. Cleaning systems include engineering blueprints and assistance in installation, as well as ongoing training support to guarantee long service life.

In Richwood’s opinion, using the CEMA standard and faithfully applying the ranking system is just one more way to work together to make the toughest job in the world a little more predictable and a lot more productive.

For a copy of CEMA Standard 576 visit our website or http://www.cemastore.com. For an application severity ranking calculator, click here.