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 eliminate 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. Martin Engineering installation crews installed a tail sealing box, steel chute walls, wear liners, and chute wall covers with dust curtains on all three conveyors.
In addition, the Martin Engineering service crew 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 and reduce spillage. To accommodate the intense heat, the high-temperature cradles have bars with stainless steel tops. The edges of the belt in the conveyor loading zones incorporate Martin® ApronSeal™ Skirting for high-temperature applications (suitable for exposure to temperatures up to 275°F / 135°C), effectively sealing the belt.
Results
CEMEX Kosmos’ plant management is very happy with the results of the project. Spillage and dust are controlled, and the new components are standing up well to the elevated material temperatures.