PROBLEM
The clinker transport system had severe problems with the escape of spillage and airborne dust in the loading zones of three conveyors. Conveyors #949, #949-3, and #950 carry clinker from the cooler to a storage structure for stockpiling. Conveyor #950, the last in the series of conveyors, is a 24-inch (610 mm) belt running at 650 fpm (3.3 m/sec). The others are 36-inch (914 mm) conveyors running at approximately 500 fpm (2.5 m/sec).
Solution
Martin® Transfer Point Solutions with high-temperature components were recommended to stop the spillage and dust problems.
To improve the clinker conveying, the plant agreed to upgrade the transfer points loading conveyors #949, #949-3, and #950. Installation crews from Martin® Services performed the project. On all three conveyors, the work included installation of a Martin® Tail Sealing Box, steel chute walls, Martin® Wear Liners, and chute wall covers with Martin® Dust Curtains.
In addition, Martin® Services fabricated a new chute to transfer material from Conveyor #949 to #949-3. Martin® Slider Cradles were installed underneath the load zones to stabilize the belt’s path to reduce spillage. To accommodate high temperatures, the high-temperature cradles feature bars with stainless steel tops. The edges of the belt in the conveyor loading zones incorporate Martin® ApronSeal™ Single Skirting for high-temperature applications, effectively sealing the elevated material. Martin® ApronSeal™ Single Skirting is suitable for exposure to temperatures up to 275°F (135°C).
RESULTS
CEMEX Kosmos’ plant management was pleased with the project's results. Spillage and dust were controlled, and the new components stood up well to the elevated material temperatures.
