As the components responsible for transporting products and materials between development stages, conveyor belt systems are at the heart of the manufacturing and processing fields. Because of this, they must function properly. Otherwise, you risk losing several days’ worth of production as you wait for them to get fixed. Here’s how to prevent common conveyor belt issues and ensure your system stays reliable.

You must regularly inspect and clean your conveyor equipment. Buildups are the number one cause of conveyor belt malfunction as their pulleys are susceptible to interference from falling materials and other environmental factors. So, if you’re going to keep everything operating correctly, clear off your conveyor and dislodge any items trapped in its rollers.

Purchase a conveyor system that’s made with the right materials for your applications. Since these components have uses in a wide range of industries, they also come in a series of different materials to suit different needs. Some of the best materials for general-use conveyors include rubber, urethane, and PVC for their strength and durability. As such, consider them first to help limit wear and breakdown over time.

Make sure you familiarize yourself with your conveyor’s weight limits so you don’t overload it. Excess weight can put extra strain on your system’s parts, leading to problems such as belt stretching, pulley breakage, and even roller corrosion. Because of this, it’s recommended that you monitor how much product you’re transporting at one time. Regulate the quantity if it proves too much.

Another effective way to prevent common conveyor belt issues is to measure its frame and ensure it remains level. Years of stress can cause the support of these systems to weaken. This results in the entire belt sagging, affecting its ability to carry goods. Checking your conveyor belt’s resting level and installing the additional support it needs can stop this occurrence in its tracks and keep your system running for longer.

By taking these additional steps, you better maintain your industrial machinery and preserve overall business funding. Don’t wait to get the most out of your equipment.