Maintenance is a regular part of dealing with conveyor systems. Over time, belts jam, tear, and may even need replacements. Alternatively, you may decide to splice open your belts in order to reinforce them.
Often, repairs have to happen in the middle of the work day in order to get a conveyor system going again. When this happens, it’s pretty common to see workers using improvised tools, which is not a good idea. Check out these three tools you need to have on hand for conveyor belt maintenance.
Belt Clamps
Anytime you decide to work on a conveyor belt, it’s absolutely essential that the belt does not move while workers are near it. Be very certain that the conveyor system is off, and lock the belt in place using belt clamps. They apply even pressure to the entire belt, ensuring it doesn’t slip during repairs. Improvised clamps, like a piece of lumber, cannot apply the same pressure.
If a belt moves while someone is working on it, there can be serious consequences. Workers can get their fingers, hands, and clothes caught in the conveyor system, which can easily send someone to the hospital.
Belt Lifters
Belt lifters are another essential tool you need for conveyor belt maintenance. They allow you to lift tensioned belts and access the mechanisms below. Without a belt lifter, many people improvise with prybars and lumber, but these non-specialized tools can damage your belt. They also don’t work so well for troughed belts, which aren’t flat.
Power Belt Cutters
When you install a new conveyor belt, you usually have to cut it open and splice it together so it fits your machinery. Using tools not designed for conveyor belts makes the process a lot slower and more tedious. Plus, they can damage the belt.
For example, in many splicing methods, you have to cut the belt open in layers to spread the tension. If you use an improvised tool, you may cut through too many layers at once or weaken the belt’s fibers in the process. All of these problems jeopardize the integrity of your belt.
The Right Tools and Belt for the Job
Using specialized tools is just one part of protecting workers and ensuring the integrity of your conveyor belts. The other half is choosing the right belt for the job, like food-grade belting from Texas Belting and Supply. We offer dozens of styles, sizes, and special coatings designed for specific food industries. Call or email us today to see what kind of difference high-quality belting can make in your business.