Impact Cradle Protects Conveyors

The Rollers, frames, and belts of a conveyor system used to transport heavy materials in the mining industry are often damaged, especially components located beneath the conveyor’s area where loads are dumped. To boost performance and life in those components, engineers at Martin Engineering, Neponset, Ill. (www.martin-eng.com), designed the EVO line of conveyor components. The impact cradle, for example, fits beneath the conveyor belt while it travels through the loading zone.

The cradle uses patented idler rollers linked together by connector brackets. This lets the rollers work together as a stronger, unified structure. Elastomer suspension bars absorb shocks and maximize the life of the conveyor belt and rolling components. The bars have a low-friction upper layer of UHMW and an energy-absorbing lower layer of rubber. The cradle lets the belt travel faster and carry greater loads through the loading zone.

Rollers are mounted closer to each other for better belt support. The unit is comprised of modular components, each small and light enough to be manually removed, eliminating the need for cranes and other equipment for most maintenance and troubleshooting.

To decrease spillage and ensure the cradle matches the idler profiles, the wings can be adjusted and fine-tuned. This also lets the cradle accommodate belt widths and side angles that correspond to CEMA, DIN, SABS, and other standard conveyor sizes.