Martin® Problem Solved Papers

Salt Buildup At Chemical Plant Causing Frequent Shutdowns

Written by Martin Engineering | February 13, 2026 at 6:56 PM

Problem

At the Arkema Group chemical site in France, a salt storage facility that stores and supplies salt had developed significant buildup from carryback along the belt. This buildup required a stop every six months for manual cleanup.

 

Solution

After reviewing the system, Martin Engineering recommended several solutions. First, Martin® Air Cannons were added to the storage hopper that supplies the salt. Martin® Air Cannons improve flow from silos, bins, bunkers, and storage vessels by knocking down rat holes, blockages, and buildups to boost plant efficiency. Additionally, a Martin® QC1+™ Cleaner PV was added with a Martin® SQC2S™Secondary Cleaner to provide the most effective cleaning performance. These belt cleaners provide an aggressive angle of attack to increase cleaning efficiency and the convenience of a one-pin blade replacement. And finally, Martin® Slider Cradles were added under the skirtboard of the transfer point to support the edges of the belt and eliminate sag.

Results

After a month of testing, the problems have been corrected. The company is no longer stopping to manually clean up the buildup and carryback. Martin® Service technicians return periodically for routine maintenance.