The influence of natural ageing processes on the strength parameters of steel cord conveyor belts

The article presents an analysis of the influence of the natural ageing time on the strength parameters of steel cord conveyor belts. The investigated phenomena include the influence of temperatures both above and below 0 °C, as well as exposure to sun, rain and snow. The tests were performed on conveyor belts which have been operated in the Bełchatów lignite mine for 30 years, transporting ROM material. The tests included adhesion of the steel cords to the belt’s core rubber and the tensile strength of both the carry and the pulley covers. The obtained results allowed determining the number of years after which belts operated in mines lose their properties. The results also indicate how long a conveyor belt, after launching it into service, retains such strength parameters that enable its further usage after revulcanisation. This information is of significant importance for the splicing and regeneration processes.