Conveyor Belt Breakdown: Repair or Replace?

Conveyor belts are ubiquitous in manufacturing plants and distribution centers around the world. So, when a conveyor belt breaks, it can wreak havoc on production and the work schedule. In some situations, it can affect worker safety or even degrade the conveyor system’s condition.

The majority of conveyor belt breakdowns can be avoided by consistent inspection and maintenance. However, no matter how proactive you may be, it’s not always possible to cover every contingency.

For this reason, it’s vital to have an action plan and policies that address conveyor belt breakdowns. The essential function of the plan and policies is to help guide your answer to the important question: “Do we replace or repair?”

While you’re contemplating all the factors and considerations involved in making the final diagnosis, documenting the decision-making process may be the last thing on your mind. For that reason, our experts created these guidelines – to serve as a starting point for your company to craft its own plan and policies.

When to consider conveyor belt replacement

When a belt is damaged, consider replacing it if at least one of the two conditions are true:

• The belt is at the end of its life: This can be determined if the condition of the belt indicates long-term wear-and-tear and is at risk of no longer being able to meet the demands of its application.
• Damage to the belt is major: A tear or puncture is major if it prevents the conveyor belt line from running.

If at least one of the above conditions is true and a spare belt is already on-site, then replacing the belt is your best option. This also applies if a spare belt can be delivered and installed in a shorter time frame than a repair can be administered.

If the belt is relatively new and has only minor damage which hasn’t stopped the line from running, then you can consider repairing the belt.

Considerations for conveyor belt repair

Once you’ve decided on a conveyor belt repair, there’s still another question to ask yourself: “Is a temporary repair a viable option?”

Conveyor belt repairs can vary depending on what type of belt is in question. For most traditional belts, a temporary repair uses metal fasteners, or an overlay held in place with fasteners. A temporary repair can keep production moving while you wait for a repair team or materials to arrive. This method should be considered if you’re 100% sure that:

• It’s safe for your workers.
• It won’t permanently damage the belt itself.
• It won’t cause damage to conveyor belt components.

Note: Keep in mind that a temporary patch repair may require you to reduce the belt feed rate and tension to ensure the belt can handle the drive and take-up forces.

Plans, policies, and preparedness can keep the line running

Whether your conveyor belt is old, new or somewhere in between, it makes sense to have a dependable conveyor belt supplier waiting in the wings. Look for a supplier with these qualifications:

• Has a reputation for reliability and customer commitment.
• Provides repair services 24/7/365.
• Stocks your conveyor belt replacements and/or repair parts.
• Is in the same region (or has a nearby distribution center) for quick delivery.

In the unfortunate event of a breakdown, having a conveyor belt plan and policies in place can be just as valuable as having cash in hand. This value comes from the prevention and reduction of downtime and losses that occur from damaged parts or products.

Belt Power is here to help you every step of the way

Belt Power is passionate about the conveyor belt industry and is committed to helping you keep your conveying systems safe, reliable, and efficient. Our innovative and experienced specialists have extensive industry knowledge and are seasoned experts with handling breakdowns for all conveyor belt styles.

We are available 24/7 to help you with all your conveyor belt needs. Contact us today or call 800-886-BELT (2358) to learn more about how to protect your facility from detrimental conveyor belt breakdowns.