Mervyn Govender, Richards Bay branch chairman (left) together with Erick Wessels at the March Technology evening.
The March Technology Evening was held at Umhambi Lodge where the sales engineer for Thermo Fischer Scientific, Erick Wessels, gave a presentation on ‘Conveyor belt scale back to basics’.
Erick kicked off with the principle of operation of a conveyor belt scale, how the feed rate is derived and the recent trends in belt scales in terms of communication capabilities. He explained the importance of all the components of the scale system, which includes the weighbridge, speed sensor as well as integrator. Erick explained the properties and characteristics of each component of the system and how different factors will affect the accuracy and operation of the belt scale.
Belt scale sizing and selection was one aspect that could not go without a mention. The decision to select a single or multi idler, pivot or floating scale, is influenced by the specific application, accuracy, belt scale design, conveyor design and calibration requirements. The conveyor belt positioning is also influenced by such factors as the conveyor incline, the conveyor shape and loading points.
Calibration is an area that many people take for granted, Erick posed a question to audience: “When was the last time you ever calibrated the belt speed?” None of us had ever done this.
There are various calibration methods – resistor, static weight, chain and material calibration, each with its own pros and cons. The most recommended methods are the chain and material bulk test calibration since they both take the loading profile of the belt into account although the chain calibration comes at a cost.
Erick explained the limitations of the belt scale as well as maintenance requirements. He stressed that there has to be a maintenance schedule for the scale. If such a schedule is not in place then it is better not to clean the belt at all and calibrate it with its dirt as that will form part of its dead load. In conclusion, the conveyor structure, conveyor belt, loading practices and maintenance are as important in accurate weighing as the belt scale itself.
SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
We are writing to share exciting developments regarding the evolution of the SAIMC that will come into effect on 1 January 2025.
Read more...SAIMC: MESA Africa 2024 summit TransLution Software
SAIMC
The SAIMC Computer Engineering Council, also known as MESA Africa, recently held its annual summit. The two days were jam-packed, with an excellent balance between theory, thought leadership, and practical case studies. The general consensus among the delegates was that the insights gained were incredibly valuable.
Read more...SAIMC: Secunda branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Secunda branch recently celebrated 25 incredible years at its year-end function and birthday bash, held on 1 November at The Glasshouse in Secunda.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Johannesburg SAIMC Branch held its annual year-end function at Northcliff Country Club on 13 October.
Read more...SAIMC: Gqeberha branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Didactic Branch of the SAIMC, in collaboration with the Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape, recently hosted an insightful talk on postgraduate opportunities. The event aimed to inspire and guide students about the paths and possibilities available to them through postgraduate studies, and to introduce them to some exciting projects.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban Branch Annual Dinner
SAIMC
The Durban branch of the SAIMC held their popular and well-supported annual year-end dinner at the Mount Edgecombe Country Club on 23 November 2024.
Read more...MESA Africa Summit has been expanded and rebranded SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council
SAIMC
We are writing to share some exciting developments regarding the evolution of the MESA Africa Summit, which has been a cornerstone event in industrial automation and manufacturing excellence.
Read more...How to claim CPD points SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council
SAIMC
SAIMC makes it possible for you to claim CPD points for attending courses and technical meetings, or completing an online quiz on a SA Instrumentation & Control magazine.
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the CEO:Slaughtering AI holy cows SAIMC
SAIMC
A couple of sessions at various dealers, a wrong delivery, a failed holiday plan, a two-week unplanned vacation and 32 kg of steel on the back seat awaited us as we left South Africa on a dream holiday. But let me start at the beginning.
Read more...SAIMC: Secunda branch SAIMC
SAIMC
At the most recent SAIMC Secunda technical evening, Jenine Jansen van Vuuren, sales account manager from Comtest Technologies, gave a presentation on the calibration of process instruments.
printer friendly version