In the realm of material handling systems, efficiency is paramount. From mining operations to manufacturing facilities, the smooth and uninterrupted flow of materials is essential for productivity. Conveyor belts are integral to these systems, facilitating the seamless movement of goods over long distances. However, maintaining this flow can be challenging, especially when dealing with issues such as spillage and material buildup. This is where Role of Conveyor Belt Ploughs come into play, offering a solution to these common challenges while optimising operational efficiency.
Conveyor belt ploughs are robust mechanical devices designed to remove spillage and prevent material buildup on conveyor belts. They are typically installed along the conveyor system at strategic points where spillage is prone to occur, such as transfer points or loading zones. The primary function of a plough is to remove any rogue product sitting on the return side of the conveyor belt. If this residual product is not removed there is an increased risk of damage to the conveyor belt and pulley lagging. Potential also exists for build-up to occur on the pulley which can create tracking issues, increasing the risk of damage to the conveyor belt.
There are several types of conveyor belt ploughs available, each with its unique design and functionality. One common type is the V-plough, which features a V-shaped blade are designed to be used on single direction conveyor belts and are available in either floating or torsion models. The vee design diverts all rogue material on the return side of the conveyor belt to both sides of the conveyor.
Another popular option is the diagonal plough, Diagonal ploughs designed for use on single direction conveyors as per the Vee ploughs. The Diagonal plough removes the rogue material on the return side of the belt to a single side of the conveyor. This can be very advantageous for cleaning and maintenance where access is poor to one side of the conveyor. The Diagonal plough is available with floating or spring tension options. The telescopic design of the structural components allows the plough length to be adjusted to suit most stringer widths.
There is also the option of reversing ploughs are designed for use on reversing conveyors and are positioned along the conveyor as per the Vee or Diagonal ploughs. As with the Diagonal plough, the rogue material on the return side of the belt is removed to a single side of the conveyor. This can be very advantageous for cleaning and maintenance where access is poor to one side of the conveyor. The Reversing plough is also available with either floating or spring tension options and uses the telescopic design of the structural components to allow the plough length to be adjusted to suit most stringer widths.
The implementation of conveyor belt ploughs offers numerous benefits for material handling operations:
Enhanced Safety: Spillage on conveyor belts can pose safety hazards for workers and equipment. Ploughs help maintain a clean and safe working environment by minimizing the risk of accidents and equipment damage.
Improved Conveyor Performance: By keeping the conveyor belt free from obstructions, ploughs contribute to smoother operation and reduced downtime. This leads to increased throughput and overall system efficiency.
Cost Savings: The prevention of material loss and reduced maintenance requirements as well as maintaining optimal drive pulley energy consumption from minimising material build up drag, translating into cost savings for companies utilizing conveyor belt ploughs. These savings can be significant over time, making ploughs a sound investment for any material handling operation.
While conveyor belt ploughs offer undeniable benefits, their effectiveness depends on proper installation and maintenance. Companies considering the implementation of ploughs should take the following factors into account:
Location: Ploughs should be strategically placed at key points along the conveyor system where spillage is most likely to occur. This ensures maximum effectiveness in preventing material buildup.
Compatibility: Ploughs should be compatible with the existing conveyor system in terms of belt width, speed, and operating conditions. Choosing the right type of plough for specific application requirements is essential for optimal performance.
Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of ploughs are crucial to ensure continued effectiveness. This includes checking for wear and tear on blades, adjusting tension, and addressing any issues that may affect performance.
Conveyor belt ploughs play a vital role in optimizing material handling operations by minimizing spillage and material buildup. As a leading manufacturer in the field of material handling equipment, TS Global has been at the forefront of innovation in conveyor belt plough technology. With a focus on quality, reliability, and performance, TS Global’s ploughs are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern industrial applications. Leveraging years of experience and expertise, TS Global offers a comprehensive range of plough solutions tailored to the unique needs of each customer.
