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Maximize The Life Of Your Wire Conveyor Belt

Properly setting up your wire conveyor belt during installation can significantly extend its lifespan. At Wire Belt, we understand how easy it is to overlook small steps during a rushed installation when you’re eager to get your conveyor running again. However, taking a few simple precautionary actions during belt installation can help prevent premature belt wear and ultimately prolong belt life. One of the most important steps is ensuring your wire conveyor belt is properly tensioned. Correct tensioning is essential for achieving maximum lifespan and optimal performance from your conveyor system.

What Happens When Tensioning Is Incorrect?

Improper tensioning can lead to various issues, including:

  1. Over-Tensioning The Conveyor Belt
    • Belt Deformation: Over-tensioning can cause the belt to form an unwanted ‘smile’, where the outer edges curve upward. In some cases, this can cause drive issues where the belt doesn’t engage properly with the outside edge spaces of the belt.
    • Belt Damage: Excessive tension can gradually pull the belt apart, leading to premature failure.
    • Drive Issues: Over-tensioning may cause the belt to skip sprocket teeth, disrupting its operation and could lead to uneven belt wear.
  2. Under-Tensioning The Conveyor Belt
    • Drive Misalignment: Insufficient tension can prevent the belt from engaging with drive components properly, causing slippage and operational failure.
    • Belt Sagging: A loose belt can sag, increasing the risk of catching on components and sustaining damage.

By prioritizing proper tensioning during installation, you can avoid these issues, reduce maintenance costs and ensure your wire conveyor belt performs reliably for as long as possible.

Properly Tensioning Your Wire Conveyor Belt

The Flat-Flex conveyor belt manufactured by Wire Belt Company is generally a low-tension belt. You only need enough tension to engage the belt with the drive components,no more, no less. We often say the belt should be ‘finger tight’, with just enough tension to allow a small amount of movement when you press the strands between your fingers.If you have any questions about properly tensioning your conveyor belt, feel free to contact Wire Belt Company and speak with one of our representatives. For immediate assistance, you can also refer to our YouTube channel, where we provide a helpful video on how to properly tension your Flat-Flex conveyor belt.

We also post new blogs each month, highlighting a range of topics such as different products, maintenance tips and much more, so be sure to come back soon.

Phone: (603) 644-2500

Email: sales@wirebelt.com