6. Conclusion
Given calculations discussed here have only looked at static weights and stream flow rate forces, further analysis should be conducted to determine what lump impact force is expected for given conditions, such as:
- Mass Flow Rate, for the expected stream flow rate force (Eq. 2).
- Lump Size and drop height, to determine maximum intermittent impact force.
- Percentage of fines to determine whether the fines can provide a cushion to lump impact.
- Product properties, such as density, lump shape factor etc.
- Dynamic properties of support systems Kinder Australia has available, such as spring constant and rebound properties for the system.
With this impact force calculated, further analysis should look at what the limitations are for a given belt specification. An impact belt support system will then easily be able to be selected that will not only survive the impact force, but reduce belt damage, contributing to cost reductions and productivity increases on the most expensive part over the life of the conveyor system.
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