Conveyors are selected for a particular operation on the basis of compatibility. While roller conveyors are more suitable for heavier loads, conveyor belts are ideal for cases where better traction is required. Speaking of belt conveyors, the terms belt tensioning and belt tracking are often associated with it. But what’s the difference between these two terms? This blog explores this in detail.
Difference Between Belt Tensioning And Tracking
What Is Belt Tensioning?
Belt tensioning is the process of tightening or loosening the overall tension of a conveyor belt as required. This is key for several reasons. Primarily, it helps prevent belt slippage, which is a phenomenon where the belt slips on the drive pulley, thereby losing traction. It also helps to reduce the wear and tear on the belt and improve its overall functioning.
What Is Belt Tracking?
By contrast, belt tracking is the process of ensuring that the conveyor belt is perfectly aligned with the bed and overall frame. The consequence of improper belt tracking is drifting, wherein the belt moves to one side. This has several negative consequences, starting with the fraying of the conveyor belt at the edges. It can also cause products to fall off the conveyor system itself, damage the drives due to too much strain, and draw too much power to function properly, thereby causing issues with variable frequency drives as well.
Therefore, as is evident, belt tensioning and belt tracking are two distinct processes. However, the two are also interconnected when it comes to conveyor performance. For instance, improper belt tensioning can inadvertently cause belt misalignment or drifting. Similarly, not tracking the belt properly can lead to over-tensioning or slacking of the belt.
Norpak Handling is a leading system integrator and distributor of general conveyors in Port Hope, Ontario. Our conveyor system range includes gravity conveyors, roller conveyors, incline conveyors, chain conveyors, belt conveyors, plastic conveyors, accumulation conveyors, and much more. Contact us today to learn more about our product range and services.
