Conveyor Belts, known for their capability for long-distance, high-capacity, and continuous transport, have become the primary method for material handling. According to big data, about 80% of the maintenance costs for conveyor belts are attributed to the belts themselves. Therefore, it is crucial to repair the conveyor belts promptly and effectively during material transport to extend their lifespan, thereby reducing replacement and maintenance expenses.
Conveyor Belt damage is an unavoidable issue in the operation of belt conveyors. How to reasonably repair damaged belts to minimize downtime is of great importance. This article focuses on discussing the commonly used cold vulcanization repair method.
1, Preparation:
Tools and Materials:
Prepare an angle grinder, tungsten carbide buffing disc, a cleaning brush, cleaning agent, a pressure roller, cold vulcanizing adhesive, and conveyor belt repair strips.
Inspect the Conveyor Belt Damage:
Determine the location, size and type of the damage. Choose a rubber repair strip that is 2-3 cm wider than the damaged area. Mark the boundaries of the repair area around the center of the damage to prepare for the next steps.
2, Steps for Repair
Grinding:
Use the angle grinder with a tungsten carbide buffing disc to grind the damaged area down to approximately the thickness of the repair strip. Shape the edges into a “V” form to enhance adhesion.
Brush away any residue from the grinding process, then use a cleaning agent to remove any oil or dust, ensuring the surface is clean and dry.
Applying Adhesive:
Follow the instructions on the cold vulcanizing adhesive, mixing the adhesive with the hardener in a 100:4 ratio. Apply the adhesive evenly to both the ground belt surface and the contact surface of the repair strip. Let it dry after the first application, then apply another coat for better penetration.
Also, apply adhesive to the semi-cured CN layer of the rubber repair strip. You can proceed to adhesion once the adhesive is tacky but not sticky.
Attaching the Rubber Repair Strip:
Start by attaching one end of the strip to the belt at the damaged spot and press down progressively to avoid air bubbles and wrinkles.
Use the pressure roller to roll over the strip multiple times to ensure a secure bond.
Post-Repair Notes
Curing Time:
Allow the repaired belt to cure fully before use, which typically takes from several hours to a day, depending on the type of adhesive and the environmental temperature.
Observation and Maintenance:
Regularly check the repair site after putting the belt back into service, addressing any issues as they arise.
Storage and Safety:
Store the adhesive in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and open flames. Ensure good ventilation during the repair process.
Conclusion:
The cold vulcanization repair method using the conveyor belt repair strips is straightforward and effective, ideal for businesses to perform quick repairs on localized conveyor belt damage. By following these guidelines and maintaining regular checks, you can significantly extend the life of your conveyor belts.