types of belt cleaners

Types of Belt Cleaners Ensuring Efficient Material Handling

Belt cleaners are essential components in material handling systems, particularly in industries that utilize conveyor belts for transporting bulk materials. The efficiency of a conveyor system can significantly impact operation costs, productivity, and even the quality of the final product. To maintain these factors, it is crucial to implement effective belt cleaning solutions. This article explores various types of belt cleaners, their functionalities, and the contexts in which they are best used.

1. Primary Belt Cleaners

Primary belt cleaners are typically installed at the discharge point of the conveyor belt and are designed to remove the bulk of the material that adheres to the belt after it has delivered its load. They come in different styles, including

- Blade Cleaners These cleaners use a single or multi-blade design to scrape the surface of the belt, effectively removing material clinging to it. The blades can be made from rubber, polyurethane, or steel, depending on the application and material handled.

- Mechanical Cleaners Utilizing more complex mechanisms, these cleaners may involve rotating brushes or other mechanical actions to dislodge material from the belt. They are ideal for materials that are prone to balling or that exhibit sticky characteristics.

Primary belt cleaners are highly efficient in maintaining belt cleanliness but require regular maintenance and replacement of blades to ensure optimal performance.

2. Secondary Belt Cleaners

Secondary belt cleaners serve as a backup to primary cleaners and are installed further down the conveyor belt, typically just before the return side of the belt. Their primary role is to catch any remaining material that the primary cleaner might miss. Types include

- Tensioned Cleaners These utilize adjustable tension to apply consistent pressure on the belt, ensuring effective cleaning as the belt moves. They typically have multiple blades that can be adjusted for wear, extending their lifespan.

- Car Wash Style Cleaners Similar in function to car wash brushes, these feature rotating components that scrub the belt's surface. They are especially useful for materials that are coated with sticky substances and require a more vigorous cleaning method.

By employing secondary cleaners, industries can reduce carryback and improve the overall hygiene of the conveyor system.

3. Specialty Belt Cleaners

In addition to primary and secondary cleaners, specialty belt cleaners are designed for specific applications or materials. Examples include

- Lightweight Cleaners Designed for lightweight applications, these cleaners are often used in grain handling or food processing. They focus on removing fine particles without damaging the belt.

- High-Temperature Cleaners For industries dealing with high-temperature materials, such as asphalt or metalworking, specialized cleaners can withstand extreme conditions while effectively removing deposits from the belt.

- Chemical Resistance Cleaners In industries like mining or manufacturing, chemical resistant cleaners are crucial for operations that handle corrosive materials. These cleaners are made from materials that resist degradation, ensuring longevity and effectiveness.

Conclusion

The selection of the right type of belt cleaner is pivotal for maintaining the efficiency of conveyor systems. Primary and secondary cleaners are fundamental to effectively manage carryback and ensure a clean belt, while specialty cleaners address specific operational challenges. Industries should evaluate their unique needs—including the materials being transported, operational conditions, and maintenance capabilities—when choosing the appropriate belt cleaning solution. By investing in the right belt cleaning technology, companies can enhance the performance of their conveyor systems, reduce operational costs, and ensure the quality of their products.