3 Steps for Adjusting Conveyor Belt Tracking

Conveyor belt tracking is a common source of concern in plants and warehouses. Tracking is the ability of the conveyor belt to run in the intended direction with the help of pulleys and barriers. When a belt has tracking issues, the conveyor won’t run efficiently. An example could be the belt moving too far to the left or right. Discover these three steps for adjusting conveyor belt tracking.

Check Other Issues First

Before you assume that you need to take your conveyor apart and change the pulleys, try a couple of other solutions first. You should:

  • Verify that the belt was cut straight
  • Ensure that the floor and conveyor frame are level
  • Remove any sources of dirt and debris

Many conveyor tracking problems come from these three issues, not the belt installation or the pulleys. However, if you determine that the pulleys are the problem, there are other techniques to try.

Make Small Adjustments

One problem that’s common when adjusting pulleys is overcorrecting. For example, if a belt tends to hug the right side of the frame, a worker goes in and forces it to move to the left. But instead of running straight, the belt now runs too far to the left. Overcorrecting just perpetuates the problem.

To avoid making large adjustments, use a mallet to gently tap on the pulleys once unlocked. This way, you have greater control over how much you move them.

Start With the Idlers

Idlers, also called snub rollers, are small rollers on the underside of the conveyor that help with tension and tracking. When you follow the three steps for adjusting conveyor belt tracking, start by adjusting these rollers, not the drive or end pulleys. Making changes to the main two pulleys can cause even bigger problems, throwing off the accuracy of your entire conveyor system.

Talk to the Professionals

If you’re looking to invest in a new industrial belting system, contact Texas Belting & Supply. We’re experts in conveyor belt systems for waste management, food production, warehouse logistics, and many other industries. We’d love to help you find exactly the right system for your needs.