As industrial technology advances, conveyor belts have become indispensable tools across many industries. They help increase production efficiency, save labor, and reduce costs. Conveyor belts are commonly used in cement, construction materials, metallurgy, mining, coal, and grain handling at ports. Like all products, conveyor belts have a limited lifespan, especially under heavy loads, and can suffer from aging or peeling of the rubber layer over time. So, what causes conveyor belt aging, and how can we address them?

1. Causes of Rubber Conveyor Belt Aging:
High Temperatures:
Excessive heat can cause the rubber to undergo thermal cracking or cross-linking, commonly known as thermal oxidation. This makes the rubber brittle and prone to cracking, which reduces its lifespan.

UV Exposure:
Ultraviolet (UV) light has a significant destructive effect on rubber. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the rubber surface to develop network-like cracks, often referred to as “surface weathering.”

Oxidation:
Oxygen reacts with the rubber molecules, initiating free radical chain reactions that change the material’s properties. Oxidation is one of the key reasons for rubber aging.

Mechanical Stress:
Conveyor belts are constantly subjected to friction with materials and rollers. This friction can break the rubber’s molecular chains, creating free radicals that trigger oxidation chain reactions. This process can lead to ozone cracking.

Moisture:
Rubber exposed to humid environments or submerged in water for extended periods will experience accelerated degradation.

Other Factors:
Chemical exposure, metal ions, high-energy radiation, electrical forces, and biological influences can also speed up rubber aging.

2. Methods to Slow Down Conveyor Belt Aging:
Avoid High Temperatures:
Operate the conveyor belt within its recommended temperature range to minimize the risk of thermal oxidation.

Add UV Stabilizers:
Incorporating UV stabilizers into the rubber can help delay the deterioration caused by sunlight, extending the belt’s lifespan.

Avoid Moisture:
Try to avoid using conveyor belts in damp environments. If this is not possible, opt for rubber materials that are resistant to heat, oil, and water.

3. The Methods for Repair Conveyor Belts:
Cold Vulcanization Adhesive with Rubber Repair Strips:
This method can effectively repair damaged sections of the conveyor belt. The combination of rubber repair strips and cold vulcanization adhesive ensures the conveyor belt can be used immediately after the repair, reducing downtime.

Screw Splice:
This method allows quick and easy repairs, lowering maintenance costs and extending the belt’s overall service life.

Conclusion:
Conveyor belts require regular maintenance and timely repairs to slow down aging, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance production efficiency. Proper care will ensure that conveyor belts operate effectively for extended periods, ultimately benefiting the entire operation.