Problem
Argos, a cement plant in Newberry Florida, had a faulty and poorly-designed skirting system on one of its conveyors. Material was building up between the wear plate and skirting sealing system. Material entrapment is when material becomes wedged into a "pinch point," forming a spearhead to gouge or abrade the surface of the belt as it moves past. The transfer point was 120 feet long so it was a big problem and undertaking. Previously having three other conveyor transfer points overhauled by Martin Engineering to prevent spillage and entrapment, the plant reached out for help fixing this particular belt.
Solution
After inspection, Martin Engineering recommended and replaced the existing chutewall with modular transfer point kits – made up of wearliner, chute walls, supports, covers, and all required hardware - along with Martin® ApronSeal™ . While in there, Martin added dust curtains to slow loading zone airflow to allow airborne dust to settle back into the material stream. Martin also recommended upgrading belt support systems but due to budgeting and the extent of the project, it would have to be added on at a later date.
Results
The equipment was installed during the plant’s outage and while onsite, the customer discussed quoting the identical sister conveyor for a replica install next spring. The plant is 100% satisfied with the service and the willingness to work within their outage schedule and budget – drastic improvement. They have belt support on their radar for future upgrades but for the moment, happy to have reduced airborne dust and no longer be cutting and grooving their belts.
