POWERING SMARTER UNDERGROUND CONVEYOR SYSTEMS

MORE AND MORE PLANTS ARE LOOKING FOR SMARTER SOLUTIONS TO POWER UNDERGROUND CONVEYOR SYSTEMS, AND SUPPORT SAFER, MORE SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS.

- 

Heavy industries like mining and power generation have long relied on underground conveyor systems to enable efficient bulk material handling.

According to Bonfiglioli national product manager – heavy duty products – Kris Jaryn, a growing number of plants are after smart solutions that will not only power these conveyor systems but will also support safer and more sustainable operations.

Jaryn said that, as with other heavy-duty applications, the selection of a gearbox for a conveyor system is a critical consideration.

“The units require a good service factor, about 1.8 to two on motor power. Because of the dusty environments in which these are typically used, the gearboxes are always supplied with taconite seals and desiccant breathers,” he said.

There are additional criteria that must be met in mining applications. In Australian underground coal mines, drive assemblies should not have exposed parts made of aluminium, motors should meet mine specifications, and specific requests according to the site and type of product also come into play.

Jaryn said some mines have site-specific requirements, like special oil sight glass, stainless steel drain valves, breathers, bearings and oil temperature monitoring. Choosing a partner that can meet these requirements is key.

Tech innovations gaining favour