Seasonal changes require companies to make winter preparations, not just for employees, but also for equipment. Outdoor conveyor systems can freeze, while indoor belts may have trouble with cracking. Discover how cold temperatures affect conveyor belts.
Rubber Becomes Brittle
Rubber is a material used frequently in conveyor belts and other types of belting. Many belts in a car’s engine are also rubber. Unfortunately, rubber doesn’t hold up to cold temperatures very well on its own. When it gets cold, it stiffens and becomes brittle.
Another way cold temperatures affect conveyor belts is by tightening belt tension. When the belts get cold, they shrink, which changes the tension setting. This can cause belts to snap unexpectedly.
Watch Out for Ice
Outdoor industrial equipment always run the risk of freezing during colder months, especially after it snows. One problem that can ruin a conveyor system is if the machine is covered in ice or snow. This precipitation adds weight and stress to your equipment and can cause it to break. If you have tall outdoor incline conveyor belts, don’t assume there’s no ice just because you don’t see any at the bottom. Ice may form farther up the conveyor.
Freezing Causes Delays
If moisture gets into the pulleys and wheels of your equipment, it can freeze in place. This means your belts won’t move until you defrost them. If you can, cover your equipment overnight to prevent precipitation from getting inside the conveyor system. Doing so will make getting to work the next day much easier.
Choose Heavy-Duty Belts for Cold Weather
The answer to resisting cold temperatures is to use heavy-duty conveyor belts that won’t crack or warp under extreme stress. Texas Belting and Supply offers highly durable conveyor belts built to withstand abnormal temperatures.
Even if you only experience cold weather during short seasons (like here in Texas), it’s always better to be safe than sorry. You never know when an ice storm will strike. Call or email Texas Belting and Supply and let us help you find the perfect heavy-duty belt for your needs.