Analytical Model between Power and Idler Spacing of Belt Conveyor

Abstract

The effects of idler spacing selection on belt conveyor power consumption have been discussed. A mathematical model to analyze the relation between total life cycle cost and belt, idler sets and driver units is presented, which is a way of reducing belt conveyor investment costs. Based on the calculation of belt tension and power consumption, a large long belt conveyor with typical three-roll troughing carrying idler and two-roll “Vee” return idler has been analyzed in two different idler spacing cases with same other parameters, such as idler speed, roll number, trough angle, roller diameter, friction bearing, seal, and so on.