Conveyor belts are among the most important assets in a mining operation. A cut, tear, or belt-cover delamination can compromise operational continuity if not addressed promptly.
However, a repair does not always fail because of the quality of the product used. In many cases, the problem lies in how the intervention is performed. Insufficient surface preparation, selection of an incompatible repair system, or failure to comply with application times can significantly reduce repair service life.
Understanding these errors enables better intervention planning, increases reliability, and reduces the risk of further unplanned shutdowns.
Error 1: Performing a Repair Without Correctly Assessing the Type of Damage
Surface cuts, deep tears, and belt-cover delamination are different types of damage and therefore require different repair strategies.
Before beginning the intervention, the origin and extent of the damage should be identified to determine the most appropriate procedure and avoid solutions that address the problem only temporarily.
Error 2: Inadequate Surface Preparation
One of the most common errors is applying the product directly to a contaminated or inadequately prepared surface.
Dust, moisture, grease, and material residue, as well as insufficient surface roughening, can impair adhesion. Cleaning and preparing the substrate in accordance with the specified application procedure are therefore essential.
Error 3: Using a Product That Is Incompatible with the Material Being Repaired
Not all repair systems are formulated to adhere to the same substrates. Applying a product designed exclusively for rubber to surfaces that also contain metal, or using a lining that is unsuited to the equipment’s operating conditions, can compromise repair performance.
Error 4: Exceeding the Product’s Pot Life
Once the components are mixed, the chemical reaction begins and the product has a limited pot life, or working time.
Applying the material after this period can make application more difficult, impair adhesion, and affect its final properties.
Error 5: Returning the Belt to Service Before the Required Cure Time Has Elapsed
The need to resume operations quickly can result in the conveyor belt being returned to service before the repair material has developed the properties required for operation.
Observing the specified cure time for each repair system allows the material to develop the mechanical properties for which it was designed and helps produce a more reliable, durable intervention.
A Successful Repair Also Depends on Selecting the Right Solution
In addition to correct preparation and application, the choice of repair system directly affects the outcome of the intervention.
The Flexsol® range includes solutions for repairing conveyor belts and other rubber components.
Depending on the Flexsol® grade selected, the products can be applied to rubber substrates or rubber-to-metal interfaces, including repairs in hard-to-reach areas.
These cold-applied, onsite repair systems can allow the conveyor belt to return to service in approximately one hour, depending on the Flexsol® grade selected and the specified application and ambient conditions.
In conveyor belt repair, details make the difference. Surface preparation, correct repair-system selection, and compliance with application procedures directly influence the quality and durability of the intervention.
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For more information about our conveyor belt and rubber repair solutions or technical advice for your operation, please complete the following form by clicking the “Contact Us” button. You can also email us at:
- Chile: contacto@bertech.cl
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- Other countries: internationalsales@bertech.cl