5 Conveyor Belt Splicing Tips and Procedures
With any conveyor belt, the care you put in equals the output. With any heavy duty belt, quality inspection, maintenance and high-quality belt splicing for repair will extend its life expectancy. Low-quality and continuous unsuccessful fixes your conveyor belt will drive down productivity and slow your operation.
Blair Rubber is a trusted a manufacturer of belt splicing materials for Grade I/II, MSHA, Neoprene, nitrile, EPDM, and SBR belts.
While there are several different methods of belt splicing, we recommend hot vulcanization. This method uses heat and pressure to bond repair materials to compromised areas. Although not the cheapest or fastest method, hot vulcanizing conveyor belt splicing is the best approach for a long-lasting repair.
Here are some tips to help with your next hot vulcanizing conveyor belt splicing project.
Early Repair
Catching a potential issue early can make all the difference with a belt splice.
Early identification of problem area can allow for faster and easier splicing. Larger scale repairs or multiple splices will require more time, effort and care to assure they are properly executed and won’t cause a repeat issue.
Regular inspection of your conveyor belt will allow you to spot problem areas and make a belt splice when it is manageable.
Proper Conditions
To ensure a quality and durable belt splice, a clean workplace and the careful use of proper tools and products is essential.
The conveyor belt must be clean and dry. Remove any oily and greasy substances and rinse the belt with water to remove other contaminants.
Don’t attempt to repair a conveyor belt in extreme heat or cold and avoid other weather conditions like rain, snow and high wind.
Quality Cuts
Proper application begins with flawless cuts and the preparation of the belt ends.
Quality equipment is essential as is using careful precision when cutting the conveyor material.
The belt should be cut at a bias angle, typically 22 degrees. After being cut, the ends are pulled apart to expose the various plies that must be joined. Precautions should be taken not to damage the plies as it will lead to a less secure belt splice.
Don’t Over Applicate
One of the most significant errors made during conveyor belt splicing is the over application of bonding adhesives like glue or cement.
Applicators often take the “more is better” approach, and that isn’t the case. Using the correct amount of adhesive will allow for a strong and long-lasting splice.
Don’t Rush the Curing Process
Follow the belt manufacturer’s recommended curing times and procedures. Using both the correct duration and temperature will ensure the ultimate cure for the splice conveyor belt.
Cutting the cure time short or using the incorrect temperature may impair the integrity of the splice. Monitor the time, temperature and pressure throughout the curing process for best results. After the cure is complete, inspect the repaired area before returning the belt to circulation.
Blair Rubber Co. is the leader in hot vulcanized splicing and repair materials for heavyweight belts. Contact us for more information about our belt splicing capabilities.