Profitability of Conveyor Belt Refurbishment and Diagnostics in the Light of the Circular Economy and the Full and Effective Use of Resources

Ryszard Błażej, Leszek Jurdziak, Agata Kirjanów-Błażej, Mirosław Bajda (), Dominika Olchówka and Aleksandra Rzeszowska
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Ryszard Błażej: Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Na Grobli 15 St., 50-421 Wrocław, Poland
Leszek Jurdziak: Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Na Grobli 15 St., 50-421 Wrocław, Poland
Agata Kirjanów-Błażej: Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Janiszewskiego 11/17 St., 50-372 Wrocław, Poland
Mirosław Bajda: Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Na Grobli 15 St., 50-421 Wrocław, Poland
Dominika Olchówka: Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Na Grobli 15 St., 50-421 Wrocław, Poland
Aleksandra Rzeszowska: Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Na Grobli 15 St., 50-421 Wrocław, Poland

Energies, 2022, vol. 15, issue 20, 1-15

Abstract: The authors propose a new method of predictive replacements of belt sections in a conveyor belt loop with their refurbishment based on their condition recognized by specially designed diagnostic devices: DiagBelt and BeltSonic. Selection of the moment for belt replacement is made on the basis of forecasted state of its wear, when steel cable failure density exceeds the selected threshold or the percentage of belt covers abrasion exceeds the permissible level. The use of double belt refurbishment extends the total belt operation time, but without diagnostics, the reconditioning success rate is relatively low. Visual inspection allows only an uncertain assessment of cable condition. New devices give precise assessment of their condition and allow the selection of a non-linear rate of belt condition based on consecutive scans. The assessed condition of the cables is the key factor in successful belt refurbishment and obtained cost savings. Additionally, diagnostics can help extend belt life. Identified failures can be repaired in order to prevent accelerated belt degradation. The use of diagnostics in the current replacement strategy significantly improves the economic efficiency of belt reconditioning. The reuse of the belt core ensures efficient use of resources and reduces the level of waste, which fits into the circular economy.

Keywords: conveyor belt; refurbishment; diagnostic systems; circular economy; NDT; magnetic method; ultrasonic method (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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